Geraniol
Geraniol is a common fragrance ingredient with a rose-like scent. It occurs naturally in rose oil and in small quantities in geranium, lemon, and many other essential oils. Its IUPAC name is 2,6-Octadien-1-Ol, 3,7-Dimethyl-, (2E)- and it carries CAS number 106-24-1. It is listed under Cosmetic Restrictions III/78.
Geraniol is primarily used for its perfuming and tonic functions in cosmetic formulations. It contributes a rose-like fragrance character to products.
Like similar fragrance ingredients (e.g., linalool, limonene), geraniol oxidises upon air exposure and becomes allergenic. It is best avoided by those with sensitive skin. Oxidation products have been identified as contact allergens, as documented in Chemical Research in Toxicology (2007).
