Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil

Worst

Fragrance Synthetic and Natural

No known benefits

Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil at a glance

  • Essential oil derived from lemongrass (belonging to the genus Cymbopogon)
  • Contains volatile fragrance compounds such as citral, linalool and geraniol
  • Can cause visible skin reactions, as well as damage below the surface
  • Also goes by the common name East Indian lemongrass oil

Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil description

_Cymbopogon flexuosus_ oil (also known as East Indian lemongrass oil) is an essential oil whose fragrance/volatile compounds pose a risk of irritation to skin (especially when used in high concentration). This irritation can range from noticeable redness, itchiness, and breakout-like rashes to less visible effects like a weakened skin barrier and premature aging that occur cumulatively over time. Among its roster of irritating compounds, _Cymbopogon flexuosus oil_ is composed of citral, linalool, geraniol, limonene and citronellol. These volatile compounds become pro-oxidant when exposed to air, further damaging skin. On the flip side, _Cymbopogon flexuosus oil_ offers some beneficial antioxidant compounds. However, there is no reason to put skin through the risk to get them when many non-irritating skin care ingredients offer the same benefits without the negative effects. Some people recommend _Cymbopogon flexuosus oil_ and other lemongrass oil varieties for blemish-prone skin. However, to avoid potential irritation, we advise against this. Scientifically proven acne fighters like salicylic acid (BHA) and benzoyl peroxide are more effective options. Further to the point, _Cymbopogon flexuosus oil_ lacks United States FDA approval for acne treatment. Note: _Cymbopogon flexuosus_ is just one of over 100 lemongrass species. This particular variety belongs to the _Cymbopogon_ genus within the Poaceae family.

Cymbopogon Flexuosus Oil references

  • Personal Care Products Council, Accessed March 2024, ePublication
  • Journal of Agriculture and Food Research, December 2022, pages 1-7
  • Contact Dermatitis, February 2021, pages 395-406
  • Journal of Applied and Natural Science, March 2020, pages 25-29
  • Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, May 2017, pages 1-92

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.