Citrol

Citrol and pregnancy

Caution Advised

• Absorbed into the body
• Common allergen

Citrol (citronellal) is a fragrance component derived from essential oils that can be absorbed through the skin. As a small, lipophilic molecule, it has the potential for systemic absorption, though the extent depends on concentration and application area. There is limited specific research on citronellal's effects during pregnancy. However, concerns exist regarding essential oil components during pregnancy due to potential effects on the developing fetus. Some animal studies on terpenes have shown reproductive effects at high doses, though human relevance is unclear. Additionally, pregnancy can increase skin sensitivity, making allergic reactions more likely. While ACOG does not specifically prohibit citronellal, many aromatherapists and healthcare providers recommend caution with concentrated essential oils and their components during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. The ingredient is more concerning in high concentrations or leave-on products. Brief exposure to low concentrations in rinse-off products is generally considered lower risk.

Citrol and breastfeeding

Safe to Use

• Common allergen

Citronellal is a small molecule that could theoretically be absorbed and transfer into breast milk in trace amounts. However, specific studies on breast milk transfer are lacking, and any transfer is likely minimal when used in typical cosmetic concentrations. The primary concern during breastfeeding is not milk transfer but rather allergic reactions or sensitization in the mother, which could be more problematic during the postpartum period when skin may be more sensitive. If applied to the breast area, there is also a theoretical risk of infant exposure through skin contact. Most lactation consultants and dermatologists consider topical fragrances like citronellal acceptable during breastfeeding when used in normal cosmetic products, provided they are not applied directly to areas the infant may contact during breastfeeding. Women with a history of fragrance allergies should continue to avoid this ingredient.

Citrol and postpartum

Safe to Use

• Common allergen

For postpartum women not breastfeeding, citronellal presents no specific contraindications beyond the general allergenic potential. The ingredient can be used in fragranced cosmetics according to standard guidelines. Postpartum hormonal changes may temporarily increase skin sensitivity in some women, potentially making allergic reactions more likely. Women who develop new sensitivities postpartum should discontinue use and choose fragrance-free alternatives. Otherwise, standard precautions for allergen avoidance apply.

Citrol and trying to conceive

Safe to Use

Citronellal has not been studied for effects on fertility or conception. There is no evidence suggesting it impacts ovulation, hormone balance, or reproductive function when used topically in cosmetics. Women trying to conceive can continue using products containing citronellal in typical cosmetic concentrations. However, those who prefer a conservative approach during the preconception period may choose to minimize exposure to fragrance ingredients, particularly in leave-on products with higher concentrations.

Citrol and PCOS

Safe to Use

• Common allergen

Citronellal is a fragrance ingredient with no known hormonal activity or effects on androgen levels, insulin sensitivity, or other PCOS-related metabolic parameters. It does not influence the endocrine system. Women with PCOS may have increased skin sensitivity and acne, which could make them more reactive to potentially irritating ingredients like citronellal. However, this is due to their skin condition rather than any specific interaction with PCOS pathophysiology. There is no evidence that citronellal affects PCOS symptoms or interferes with PCOS treatments. Women with PCOS can use products containing this ingredient, though those with sensitive or acne-prone skin may prefer fragrance-free formulations.

Citrol and general use

Caution Advised

• Common allergen
• Irritant
• Increases sun sensitivity

Citronellal is a naturally occurring fragrance compound found in many citrus and lemongrass essential oils. It provides a fresh, lemony scent to cosmetics, personal care products, and household items. It is also used in some insect repellent formulations. According to the SCCS and multiple dermatological studies, citronellal is an established contact allergen that can cause allergic contact dermatitis, particularly with repeated exposure. It may also cause irritation and photosensitivity in some individuals. The risk increases with concentration and frequency of use. People with existing fragrance allergies or sensitive skin are at higher risk of reactions. The EU requires citronellal to be listed when present above threshold levels due to its allergenic potential. IFRA has established maximum use concentrations for different product types to minimize sensitization risk. For the general population, occasional use in products within regulatory limits is considered acceptable, but individuals with known fragrance sensitivities should avoid products containing this ingredient. Patch testing is recommended for those with sensitive skin or allergic tendencies.

Everything else flagged for the same profiles

• Flagged in pregnancy

Related ingredients

Ingredients suggested in place of Citrol, each one with its own page here.

• Bisabolol
• Allantoin

Ingredients that raise the same concerns.

• Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit OilIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• PapainIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• D-LimoneneIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• Lavandula Hybrida OilIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• Litsea Cubeba Fruit OilIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen
• Cymbopogon Schoenanthus OilIncreases sun sensitivity, Irritant, Common allergen

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 15 September 2026.