Ingredient
Olibanum
Olibanum is flagged for pregnancy. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body.
- Boswellia Serrata Extract
- Frankincense
- Boswellia Carterii Oil
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Caution Advised
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 1 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Olibanum and pregnancy
Caution Advised
- Absorbed into the body
Olibanum, also known as frankincense, is an essential oil derived from Boswellia tree resin. It's used in cosmetics for its anti-inflammatory properties and pleasant scent. Essential oils during pregnancy are a debated topic in the medical community. While topical use of diluted olibanum in cosmetics is generally considered less risky than oral consumption or aromatherapy diffusion, some aromatherapists and midwives recommend caution, particularly in the first trimester. The concern stems from the potent bioactive compounds in essential oils that can be absorbed through skin. However, specific human studies on topical olibanum during pregnancy are lacking. ACOG does not specifically prohibit topical olibanum use, but many obstetricians suggest a precautionary approach with all essential oils during the first trimester when fetal development is most sensitive. The concentration in cosmetic products is typically low (usually under 1%), which reduces risk. If using products containing olibanum during pregnancy, lower concentrations and infrequent use are generally considered more prudent.
This one changes across the pregnancy.
- First trimester
- CAUTION
- Second trimester
- SAFE
- Third trimester
- SAFE
Olibanum and breastfeeding
Safe to Use
Topical use of olibanum in cosmetic formulations during breastfeeding is generally considered low risk. The ingredient is typically used in low concentrations in skincare products, and systemic absorption through intact skin is minimal. While essential oils should not be applied directly to the breast area before breastfeeding, the use of olibanum in facial skincare or body products away from the breastfeeding area poses minimal concern. There is no evidence that cosmetic concentrations of topical olibanum significantly affect breast milk composition. The AAD does not specifically restrict topical olibanum during breastfeeding. As with any scented product, ensure it's not applied near the infant's face or on areas they might come into direct contact with, as babies have sensitive skin and respiratory systems.
Olibanum and postpartum
Safe to Use
For postpartum women not breastfeeding, olibanum offers potential benefits without reproductive concerns. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help with skin recovery and stress-related skin issues common in the postpartum period. The ingredient is well-tolerated by most users when properly formulated in cosmetics. It can provide both functional and aromatherapeutic benefits during postpartum recovery.
Olibanum and trying to conceive
Safe to Use
There is no evidence that topical cosmetic use of olibanum affects fertility. The concentrations used in skincare products are low, and systemic absorption is minimal. While essential oils during pregnancy require caution, preconception use of olibanum in cosmetics is not associated with fertility concerns. If you become pregnant, you may choose to reassess continued use, particularly in the first trimester.
Olibanum and PCOS
Safe to Use
Olibanum has no known hormonal effects and does not interfere with androgen or insulin pathways relevant to PCOS. Its anti-inflammatory properties may actually be beneficial for PCOS-related skin inflammation. Research on boswellic acids (active compounds in olibanum) suggests anti-inflammatory and potentially insulin-sensitizing effects, though most studies focus on oral supplements rather than topical cosmetic use. For skincare purposes, olibanum poses no specific concerns for women with PCOS.
Olibanum and general use
Safe to Use
- Common allergen
- Can sensitise skin
Olibanum (frankincense) is a botanical extract valued for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and aromatic properties. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine and modern skincare. The main concern with olibanum is potential for allergic reactions or skin sensitization, particularly in individuals sensitive to essential oils or terpenes. The SCCS notes that oxidized essential oils have higher sensitization potential. Patch testing is advisable for those with sensitive skin or known fragrance allergies. Olibanum is approved for cosmetic use in the EU and US. The EU requires labeling of certain allergenic components if present above specific thresholds. Most users tolerate this ingredient well when used in properly formulated products.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
Related ingredients
Ingredients suggested in place of Olibanum, 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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A label has thirty of them. Truva reads the whole list at once and answers for the profile you set: pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum, trying to conceive, PCOS, or general use.
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