What it is
This extract is obtained from the flowers of Pelargonium graveolens, a fragrant geranium long associated with rose-like aroma compounds. In skincare it is used as a botanical skin-conditioning agent and can contribute a natural scent or help mask other odors. It appears at low levels in formulas such as sunscreens where a plant-based sensory or conditioning element is desired.
Safety & warnings
Rose geranium contains naturally occurring fragrance constituents such as citronellol, geraniol, and linalool, which are recognized EU fragrance allergens and can provoke contact sensitization in susceptible individuals. People with fragrance or essential-oil sensitivities should patch test products containing this extract. It is otherwise generally tolerated at the low levels used in cosmetics.
Origin & sourcing
Natural, derived from the flowers of the rose geranium plant, Pelargonium graveolens.
Questions everyone asks
Why is rose geranium extract added to sunscreen?
It is used as a botanical conditioning agent and for its natural scent, which can also help mask the smell of other ingredients.
Can this extract cause allergic reactions?
It contains natural fragrance allergens like citronellol, geraniol, and linalool, so people sensitive to fragrance should patch test first.