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Ingredient · INCI reference

Salvia Sclarea Oil

Salvia Sclarea Oil is the essential oil of clary sage used in cosmetics mainly as a fragrance and skin-conditioning ingredient.

What it is

Salvia Sclarea Oil is the volatile essential oil obtained from clary sage and is composed largely of terpene alcohols and esters such as linalyl acetate and linalool. In cosmetic and sunscreen formulations it is used mainly as a natural fragrance and aromatic skin-conditioning ingredient. It is typically used at very low levels because it is a concentrated essential oil.

Safety & warnings

As a concentrated essential oil, clary sage oil can cause irritation or sensitization in some people, particularly on sensitive skin. It naturally contains linalool, a recognized fragrance allergen subject to labeling requirements in some regions, and can also contain limonene; those with fragrance sensitivities should be cautious. It is used at low levels to limit these risks.

Origin & sourcing

Natural; an essential oil steam-distilled from the flowering tops and foliage of Salvia sclarea (clary sage).

Questions everyone asks

What is clary sage oil used for in cosmetics?

It is used chiefly as a natural fragrance and aromatic skin-conditioning ingredient; it does not contribute sun protection.

Can clary sage oil cause sensitivity?

Yes. As an essential oil it can irritate or sensitize some users and contains the fragrance allergen linalool, so it is used at low levels.

Sources & references

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