Description

Santalol is a key component of sandalwood oil, derived primarily from the heartwood of sandalwood trees (genus Santalum). It is highly valued in the cosmetic and personal care industry for its distinctive warm, woody, and creamy scent, as well as its therapeutic properties.

Chemical Composition and Structure
Santalol consists of a mixture of isomeric sesquiterpene alcohols, predominantly alpha-santalol and beta-santalol. These compounds contribute to the characteristic fragrance and properties of sandalwood oil.

Alpha-Santalol: The primary component, known for its rich, woody, and slightly sweet aroma.
Beta-Santalol: Complementary to alpha-santalol, with a slightly more balsamic and earthy note.
Physical Properties
Santalol typically appears as a clear to pale yellow liquid. It is known for its high stability and persistence, making it a valuable ingredient in perfumes and other fragranced products. The compound has a relatively low volatility, contributing to its long-lasting scent.

Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications
Fragrance: Santalol is used extensively in perfumes, colognes, and scented products for its luxurious, warm, and creamy sandalwood scent. It adds depth and complexity to fragrance compositions.

Aromatherapy: The calming and soothing properties of santalol make it a popular choice in aromatherapy products aimed at reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Skin Conditioning: Santalol is used in skincare products for its moisturizing and emollient properties. It helps to soothe and soften the skin.

Anti-inflammatory: It has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial in products designed to calm and reduce skin irritation.

Hair Care: Santalol can be found in hair care products, providing a pleasant fragrance while helping to condition and nourish the hair.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Santalol is generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and personal care products when used within recommended concentrations. It is well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. The sustainability of sandalwood sources is an important consideration, and ethical sourcing practices are crucial to ensure the preservation of sandalwood trees and their ecosystems.

Cosmetic Safety

Restricted cosmetic ingredient as III/341 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported: 5-(2,3-Dimethyl- tricyclo[2.2.1.02,6]- hept-3-yl)- 2-methylpent-2-en- 1-ol (alpha-Santalol); (1S-(1a,2a(Z),4a))- 2-Methyl- 5-(2-methyl- 3-methylenebicyclo [2.2.1]hept-2-yl)- 2-penten-1-ol (beta-Santalol). 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.

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.
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