Ingredient
Citral
What is Citral?
Citral is a natural component found in the oils of several plants, including lemongrass, lemon myrtle, and orange. It is primarily composed of two isomers: geranial and neral, which contribute to its lemon-like scent.
Citral is widely used in the flavor and fragrance industry due to its strong citrus aroma. It is commonly found in deodorants, perfumes, and cleaning products. Some studies suggest that citral may have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, but evidence on long-term safety is limited.
When you see citral on a product label, it typically indicates the presence of a natural citrus scent. While generally regarded as safe in typical use levels, it may cause skin irritation in some people.
Commonly found in: Deodorant, Fragrances, Hand Sanitizer, Cleaning Products, Perfumes
What to watch
- Citral can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Its use in high concentrations is associated with skin sensitization.
Benefits
- Citral provides a natural citrus fragrance.
- It may have antimicrobial properties.
Citral is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) when used according to good manufacturing practices.
Research indicates potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, but evidence on long-term effects and safety is limited.
Citral is plant-derived and typically acceptable for vegan consumers.
Sources: GRAS Substances (SCOGS) Database · A review of the antimicrobial properties of citral
Scout's take
IFRA / EU-declared fragrance allergen; required on the label because it exceeds 0.001% in this leave-on product. IFRA restricts maximum use levels in leave-on products because of its high contact-allergy rate.
The case against
Citral can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Sukin 455431 Botanical Body Wash Lime Coconut · echoed in 1 other analysisThere are minimal risks, primarily related to potential skin irritation in very sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum CreamPotential for allergic reactions and skin irritation.
from the analysis of Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant - Bergamot & HinokiThe case for
It provides a fresh, citrus scent to the product.
from the analysis of Salt & Stone Deodorant - Neroli & Basil · echoed in 1 other analysisIt provides a fresh, lemon-like scent to cosmetic products.
from the analysis of Sukin 455431 Botanical Body Wash Lime CoconutIt provides a lemon scent to the product.
from the analysis of Sol De Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum CreamMore from Scout's analyses
IFRA / EU-declared fragrance allergen; required on the label because it exceeds 0.001% in this leave-on product. IFRA restricts maximum use levels in leave-on products because of its high contact-allergy rate.
from the analysis of Le Labo Santal 33 Eau de ParfumProcessed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
from the analysis of Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant - Bergamot & HinokiLemony fragrance ingredient on the EU 26-allergen list.
from the analysis of Bath & Body Works PocketBac Japanese Cherry Blossom Hand SanitizerFound in 39 products
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