Ingredient
Camphor
Camphor is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, postpartum and general use. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and fetal development.
- Camphora
- 2-Camphanone
- 2-Bornanone
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Not Recommended
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 5 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 3 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Camphor and pregnancy
Not Recommended
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
- Neural development
Camphor is a terpenoid compound that provides a cooling sensation and is sometimes used in topical products for fragrance or as a counterirritant. It can be derived naturally from camphor trees or synthesized chemically. According to multiple medical sources including ACOG guidance on topical medications, camphor should be avoided during pregnancy due to its ability to cross the placental barrier. The FDA notes that camphor is readily absorbed through the skin and can reach systemic circulation. There have been case reports of fetal toxicity and adverse outcomes associated with camphor exposure during pregnancy. The neurotoxic properties of camphor raise particular concerns about potential effects on fetal brain development. Most obstetricians and dermatologists recommend completely avoiding camphor-containing products during pregnancy. This includes not only dedicated camphor products but also cosmetics, muscle rubs, and aromatic products that may contain camphor as a fragrance component or active ingredient. The American Pregnancy Association lists camphor among substances to avoid topically during pregnancy.
Camphor and breastfeeding
Not Recommended
- Passes into breast milk
- Infant exposure
Camphor is a lipophilic compound that can be absorbed through the skin and, due to its fat-soluble nature, has the potential to transfer into breast milk. It provides a cooling sensation but has known neurotoxic properties. According to LactMed (the NIH's drugs and lactation database), camphor can pass into breast milk and poses potential risks to breastfed infants due to its neurotoxic effects. Infants have immature liver enzymes and are less able to metabolize camphor, making them more vulnerable to its toxic effects. The American Academy of Pediatrics expresses concern about camphor exposure in young infants. Most pediatricians and lactation consultants recommend avoiding camphor-containing products while breastfeeding, particularly on areas where the infant might have direct contact or where systemic absorption could lead to milk transfer. If camphor products must be used, they should never be applied to the breast area and should be used sparingly on other body areas.
Camphor and postpartum
Caution Advised
- Irritant
- Absorbed into the body
Camphor can be used by non-breastfeeding postpartum women, but caution is still advised due to its potential for skin irritation and systemic absorption. The skin may be more sensitive during the postpartum period due to hormonal changes. If using camphor-containing products postpartum, they should be limited to small areas and used according to product directions. Those with sensitive skin or a history of skin reactions should avoid camphor due to its irritant potential.
Camphor and trying to conceive
Not Recommended
- Absorbed into the body
- Builds up in tissue
Camphor's ability to be absorbed systemically and its known neurotoxic properties make it advisable to avoid when trying to conceive. While specific fertility studies are limited, the precautionary principle suggests discontinuing camphor use when actively trying to become pregnant. Since camphor should be completely avoided once pregnancy is confirmed, many healthcare providers recommend stopping its use when beginning to try to conceive. This allows any accumulated camphor to clear from the body before potential conception occurs.
Camphor and PCOS
Safe to Use
- Irritant
Camphor is a cooling, aromatic compound sometimes found in cosmetic formulations. For individuals with PCOS, there are no specific hormonal concerns with topical camphor use, though it can be irritating to sensitive skin. While camphor doesn't directly affect androgen levels or insulin sensitivity relevant to PCOS, individuals with PCOS-related skin sensitivity may find camphor irritating. Its cooling properties are not particularly beneficial for PCOS-related skin concerns. There is no evidence that topical camphor affects hormonal balance in PCOS. However, given its irritant potential and limited benefits for PCOS-related skin issues, gentler alternatives are often preferable.
Camphor and general use
Caution Advised
- Irritant
- Absorbed into the body
Camphor is a terpenoid compound that provides a characteristic cooling sensation and penetrating aroma. In cosmetics, it may be used as a fragrance ingredient or for its counterirritant properties, though it's more commonly found in topical analgesic products. The FDA restricts camphor concentrations in over-the-counter topical products to 3-11% and requires specific labeling due to potential toxicity. Camphor can cause skin irritation, redness, and in some cases, allergic reactions. Its ability to penetrate skin means that even topical use results in systemic absorption, which can be problematic if used excessively or on large areas. Symptoms of camphor toxicity include nausea, vomiting, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures. The European Union's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety has evaluated camphor and notes concerns about its neurotoxic potential, particularly in children and vulnerable populations. While small amounts in cosmetics are generally tolerated by healthy adults, camphor is considered an ingredient to use cautiously and in moderation. Those with sensitive skin, respiratory conditions, or epilepsy should avoid camphor-containing products.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of Camphor, each one with its own page here.
Ingredients that raise the same concerns.
Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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