Terpineol

adultsSkin contact product

Check for Different Age (6 available)

Is this safe for adults to use Terpineol?

YES - Generally Safe
Danger Score: 3 (Lower is safer)
Quick Answer: Terpineol is generally considered safe for adults when used in topical products. Adults generally have higher tolerance.

ℹ️General Overview

For adults, terpineol is usually okay in small amounts in creams or lotions. The main concern is that some people can get allergic reactions to it, and there are notes about possible contamination (including formaldehyde).

What to Do

If you are an adult: choose products where terpineol is low on the ingredient list, do a small patch test on inner forearm and wait 24–48 hours before using widely, avoid using it on open cuts or inflamed skin, and stop use if you get redness, itching, or a rash. If you have a known fragrance allergy or very sensitive skin, pick fragrance-free products instead.

⚠️Warnings

Watch for allergic reactions (the ingredient is listed as a known human allergen under the EU Cosmetics Directive) and be aware the ingredient record flags possible contamination with formaldehyde. Also note that some product certification programs restrict use of this ingredient unless the maker provides extra safety data. Stop use and consult a doctor if you develop signs of an allergic reaction (redness, swelling, itching, hives, or breathing difficulties).

Confidence: MEDIUM

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Safety Risk Labels

This ingredient has the following documented risks:

Immune system: This ingredient is listed as a known human allergen by the EU Cosmetics Directive. That means it can trigger allergic reactions in people, so it may affect a child’s immune response if their skin is exposed.
Irritant: Because it is identified as a human allergen, it can cause skin irritation such as redness or itching on sensitive skin. The EU Cosmetics Directive notes this allergenic risk for topical use.
Eczema: Allergic skin reactions from this ingredient can show up as eczema or contact dermatitis. The ingredient is flagged as a human allergen in the EU Cosmetic guidance, which is linked to these skin conditions.
Cancer: The ingredient record flags high contamination concerns and specifically names formaldehyde as a contaminant of concern. Formaldehyde is classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, so contamination raises a cancer-related risk.
Environmental: Environment Canada has flagged this chemical as a suspected environmental toxin, meaning it may harm wildlife or ecosystems if released into the environment.

Tap or hover over labels to see detailed risk information.

Alternative Names for Terpineol

This ingredient may also be listed as:

terpineolNCGC00255464-01SC-46794NSC-40366522347-88-2ALPHA-TERPINEOL, 90%, TECHNICAL GRADEAK122298MCULE-9798755896CAS-98-55-5AK608361NCGC00257666-01

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

Products Containing Terpineol

This ingredient is found in the following products:

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

Common Questions About Terpineol

Is this safe for adults to use Terpineol?

Yes, Terpineol is generally considered safe for adults based on current research.

What are the immune system risks of Terpineol for adults?

Could weaken or confuse immune system.

What are the irritant risks of Terpineol for adults?

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

What are the eczema risks of Terpineol for adults?

Linked to triggering or worsening eczema and similar skin conditions.

What are the cancer risks of Terpineol for adults?

Connected to cancer risk with long-term or repeated exposure.

What are the environmental risks of Terpineol for adults?

Possible negative effects on the environment

What products contain Terpineol?

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

When can adults using products with Terpineol?

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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