Camphor

Camphor molecular structurePubChem

adults • Skin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this safe for adults to use Camphor?

⚠️
USE WITH CAUTION
Danger Score: 4 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Camphor use with caution for adults when used in topical products. Adults generally have higher tolerance.

ℹ️General Overview

For adults: Camphor is commonly used on the skin and is usually okay in products made for adults when used as directed. Some people can get a rash or other allergic reactions, and some countries limit how it is used in cosmetics.

✅What to Do

Only use products labeled for adults and follow the product directions. Do a small patch test on your inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use. Do not put camphor on broken or irritated skin, do not swallow it, and keep it out of reach of children. If you see redness, swelling, hives, dizziness, or trouble breathing, stop use and seek medical care.

⚠️Warnings

Known allergy risk: the ingredient is listed as a known human allergen by the EU Cosmetics Directive. Use limits/restrictions: Health Canada notes restrictions on cosmetic use. Note also that the U.S. FDA recognizes camphor for limited uses in food (different rules than topical use), and Environment Canada does not consider it persistent or bioaccumulative. If you have sensitive skin or a history of skin allergies, avoid products with camphor or check with your healthcare provider before use.

Confidence: HIGH

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Immune system: Camphor is listed by the EU cosmetics rules as a known human allergen. That means it can trigger allergic reactions in some people, which can affect a child’s immune response to the skin exposure.
Irritant: Because camphor is identified as a human allergen, it can cause skin redness, itching, or rashes when applied to sensitive skin or to children who react to it.
Eczema: Known allergy risk from camphor can provoke or worsen eczema and contact dermatitis in children who are sensitive to it, per the EU cosmetics classification.
Banned: Health Canada restricts the use or concentration of camphor in cosmetics, so its use is limited or controlled in some countries.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Camphor

This ingredient may also be listed as:

camphorHY-N0808Q-200784DL-2-BORNANONE 1,7,7-TRIMETHYLBICYCLO[2.2.1]HEPTAN-2-ONEZ940713494W-109539W-110530Q181559F0001-0763(1RS,4RS)-1,7,7-TRIMETHYLBICYCLO(2.2.1)HEPTAN-2-ONE(+/-)-1,7,7-TRIMETHYL-BICYCLO[2,2,1]HEPTANE-2-ONE

Always check ingredient labels carefully, as ingredients may be listed under different names.

Products Containing Camphor

This ingredient is found in the following products:

This list shows products that contain Camphor or its alternative names.

Research Articles on Camphor

Scientific research related to this ingredient:

Ethyl cellulose-based in-situ film of itraconazole for enhanced treatment of fungal infections.

PMID: 40253000PubMed ↗

There's the Rub: a narrative review of the benefits and complications associated with Vicks VapoRub use.

PMID: 40034673PubMed ↗

These research articles provide scientific evidence about Camphor safety and effects.

Common Questions About Camphor

Is this safe for adults to use Camphor?

Use caution with Camphor for adults. Some safety concerns have been identified.

What are the immune system risks of Camphor for adults?

Could weaken or confuse immune system.

What are the irritant risks of Camphor for adults?

Can cause skin redness, itchiness, or rashes—especially on sensitive baby skin.

What are the eczema risks of Camphor for adults?

Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions.

What are the banned risks of Camphor for adults?

Banned or heavily restricted in one or more countries.

What products contain Camphor?

Camphor is commonly found in skincare products, cosmetics, and topical applications. Always check ingredient labels before use.

When can adults using products with Camphor?

The appropriate age depends on the specific ingredient properties and concentration. This analysis is for adults. Use the age selector above to check other ages.

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