Geranium Egyptian Essential Oil, 100 ml

Geranium essential oil

Geranium essential oil is added to cosmetics mainly for its rosy, floral fragrance and for its effect on skin prone to imbalance, impurities or redness. It is obtained by steam distillation from scented geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) of Egyptian origin. In formulations it does two jobs at once: it scents the product without synthetic fragrance and also acts as an active ingredient.

The fragrance is characteristic, rosy and sweet, with a minty top note that sets it apart from purely floral essences. The floral character is due mainly to the naturally present geraniol.

What it brings to a formulation

• Balancing effect on the skin – the manufacturer describes it as an ingredient that helps keep the skin in balance, which is why it works well in products for acne-prone and problem skin.
• Soothing and reduction of redness – according to the manufacturer’s data, it helps soothe irritated skin and visually reduce redness. It is useful in after-sun products and in care for irritated skin.
• Cooling sensation – the manufacturer reports a refreshing, cooling feel on the skin. It suits after-sun gels and milks or foot creams.
• Support for skin renewal and appearance – the manufacturer’s documentation mentions support for the skin’s natural renewal and an improvement in its appearance and vitality, which is why it appears in care for mature skin. The manufacturer also reports a more even skin tone and a reduced appearance of dark spots.
• Antimicrobial properties – the manufacturer lists them as one of the functions of the oil. They are useful in deodorants and in cleansing care for skin prone to impurities. The oil does not replace the preservative system of the product.
• Scalp and hair care – in shampoos, conditioners and hair oils it has, according to the manufacturer, a balancing effect on the scalp and gives the hair a pleasant fragrance.

Use in a formulation

Geranium essential oil is lipophilic and does not dissolve in water. In anhydrous products, that is massage oils, balms, butters and solid perfumes, it is simply mixed into the oil phase. In emulsions it is added during the cooling phase, when the cream or milk is at a temperature below 40 °C, so that the volatile components are not lost and the fragrance does not change. In toners, sprays and other water-based products a solubiliser is needed, otherwise the oil separates and forms droplets on the surface. It dissolves well in alcohol, a property you can make use of in alcohol-based toners and perfumes.

It tolerates both acidic and neutral pH and is compatible with non-ionic surfactants, so it can also be incorporated into shower gels and shampoos. Mix it into the finished surfactant base only at the end.

The usage rate depends on the product category. Each category has its own IFRA limit, which sets the maximum permitted share of the oil in the finished product. A face cream has one ceiling, a shampoo another, and a perfume or candle yet another. Before finalising the formulation, check the limit for the relevant category and also take into account the sensitivity of the area the product is intended for.

Suitable for products such as

• Face creams and serums for problem and mature skin – for both the balancing effect and the fragrance.
• After-sun products – for a cooling sensation and to soothe reddened skin.
• Deodorants – both solid and cream, where the fragrance and the antimicrobial properties stated by the manufacturer are useful.
• Shampoos, conditioners and hair oils – for a balancing effect on the scalp.
• Massage oils and bath products – bath salts, bath oils and milk baths.
• Perfumes and solid perfumes – as a floral component with a rosy character.
• Hand creams, foot creams and body milks – at a usage rate appropriate to the given category.

Good to know

The oil contains fragrance allergens listed in Annex III of Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009; take their content into account when labelling the finished product. The ingredient is classified under the CLP Regulation and contains hazardous substances; when handling the concentrate, follow the safety data sheet.

The ingredient is of food and cosmetic grade, of plant origin, free of animal-derived components and not tested on animals.

Frequently asked questions