Description

Turpentine is a volatile essential oil obtained from the resin of various species of pine trees (genus Pinus). This mixture of terpene hydrocarbons is widely used in the cosmetic and personal care industry, as well as in industrial applications. It is prized for its distinctive pine scent and solvent properties.

Chemical Composition and Structure
Turpentine is composed primarily of terpene hydrocarbons. The exact composition can vary depending on the species of pine and the method of extraction, but the main components generally include:

Alpha-Pinene: A major constituent, known for its fresh, woody, pine-like aroma.
Beta-Pinene: Contributes to the pine scent with a slightly more resinous note.
Camphene: Adds a fresh, herbal fragrance.
Limonene: Imparts a citrus-like aroma, enhancing the overall scent profile.
Terpinolene: Provides a sweet, floral, and piney scent.
Physical Properties
Turpentine typically appears as a clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid. It is highly volatile and has a strong, characteristic pine scent. Due to its solvent properties, turpentine is used in a variety of applications beyond cosmetics.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Fragrance: Turpentine is used in perfumes and colognes to provide a fresh, woody, and piney aroma. It adds depth and complexity to fragrance compositions.

Aromatherapy: The distinctive scent of turpentine is used in aromatherapy products to promote relaxation and well-being.

Solvent: In cosmetics, turpentine can act as a solvent for certain ingredients, enhancing the formulation process.

Skin Conditioning: Turpentine is sometimes used in skincare products for its potential to improve skin health, though it must be used cautiously due to its potency.

Decongestant: In topical products, turpentine can be used to relieve congestion and as a rubefacient (warming agent) for sore muscles.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Turpentine is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products when used in appropriate concentrations. However, due to its potency and potential for irritation, it should be used with caution, particularly on sensitive skin. It is important to follow regulatory guidelines and safety assessments to ensure consumer safety. The production and use of turpentine should also consider environmental impact and sustainability practices.

Cosmetic Safety

Restricted cosmetic ingredient as III/124 III/125 III/126 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported: Turpentine gum (Pinus spp.); Turpentine oil and rectified oil; Turpentine, steam distilled (Pinus spp.). The presence of the substance shall be indicated in the list of ingredients referred to in Article 19(1), point (g), when its concentration exceeds: — 0,001 % in leave-on products — 0,01 % in rinse-off products. The peroxide value for each substance shall be less than 10 mmoles/L. (This limit applies to the substance and not to the finished cosmetic product).

Cosmetics - INCI Functions


Perfuming. Unlike fragrance, which can also contain slightly less pleasant or characteristic odours, the term perfume indicates only very pleasant fragrances. Used for perfumes and aromatic raw materials.
Synonyms:

CAS: 8006-64-2 9005-90-7 8052-14-0 EC number 232-350-7 / 232-688-5