Terpineol

Worst

Antioxidant

Terpineol at a glance

  • Found in several essential oils
  • Used in fragrance and flavorings
  • Strong lilac scent
  • Has anti-inflammatory properties
  • Also puts skin at risk for irritation

Terpineol description

Terpineol is a type of compound found in cardamom and the essential oils of pine, cajeput, and petitgrain, among others. The term terpineol actually covers four types of terpineols, though for the purposes of this definition it refers to alpha-terpineol. Alpha-terpineol is frequently used in flavorings and fragrances due to its lilac scent. Research finds that alpha-terpineol – as is typical of many components found in essential oils, such as linalool – has anti-inflammatory properties, as well as value in aromatherapy. Unfortunately, also as with linalool, its volatile properties put skin at risk for irritation, particularly for allergic contact dermatitis. As it stands, because of the potential for sensitization, it’s best to stick to soothing ingredients (such as green tea or allantoin) that have benefits _without_ the risks.

Terpineol references

  • PubMed, Website, Accessed January 2025
  • ScienceDirect, Website, Accessed January 2025
  • Contact Dermatitis, February 2022, pages 113-119
  • CosmoDerma, February 2022, pages 1-12

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.