What it is
This ingredient is the aromatic essential oil obtained from the heartwood of Santalum album, the East Indian sandalwood tree. It is rich in santalol compounds that give it its characteristic warm, woody scent. In sunscreens and skincare it is used mainly to provide fragrance and a conditioning effect rather than for any functional skin benefit.
Safety & warnings
As an essential oil, sandalwood oil contains fragrance constituents and can be a source of skin sensitization or irritation in susceptible individuals, particularly at higher concentrations. People with fragrance sensitivities or reactive skin may wish to approach products containing it with caution. Patch testing is reasonable for those prone to fragrance reactions.
Origin & sourcing
Naturally derived. It is produced by steam distillation of the wood of the Santalum album tree.
Questions everyone asks
Why is sandalwood oil added to sunscreen?
It is used chiefly for its woody fragrance and conditioning feel, not for sun protection.
Can it cause skin reactions?
As a fragrant essential oil, it can trigger irritation or sensitization in some people, especially those with fragrance sensitivities.