Linalool
Linalool is a very common fragrance ingredient found in approximately 200 natural oils, including lavender, ylang-ylang, bergamot, jasmine, and geranium, and is present in 90–95% of prestige perfumes. Its IUPAC name is 3,7-Dimethyl Octa-1,6-Diene-3-Ol (CAS #78-70-6). It serves a perfuming and deodorant function in cosmetic formulations. It can be derived from natural sources or synthesized.
Linalool contributes fragrance and deodorant properties to cosmetic products. It is widely used for its pleasant scent profile derived from numerous botanical sources.
Linalool oxidizes upon air exposure and becomes allergenic over time; a product opened for several months is more likely to cause allergic reactions than a fresh one. A UK study of 483 people found 2.3% had positive allergic reactions to 3% oxidized linalool (Contact Dermatitis, Volume 64(4), April 2011). It is subject to EU Cosmetic Restrictions (III/84).
