Farnesol
What Farnesol is & what it does
A delicate, floral fragrance compound that also has mild deodorizing properties. It is a recognized fragrance allergen.
Is Farnesol safe?
Farnesol is a naturally occurring fragrance compound used in scented cosmetics, and it is one of the fragrance allergens that must be labeled in some regions because it can cause sensitivity in certain people. Most users tolerate it at the low levels used for scent. If you have a known fragrance allergy, checking the ingredient list is worthwhile.
What does Farnesol do in skincare?
Farnesol is used mainly as a fragrance ingredient, contributing a soft floral scent to a product. It can also act as a deodorizing agent in some formulas. Its role is primarily related to scent rather than a direct effect on the skin.
Is Farnesol natural or synthetic?
Farnesol occurs naturally in many essential oils and flowers, but the version used in cosmetics can be either naturally derived or synthetically produced. Both forms are the same compound used for its scent. The source depends on the supplier and the specific product.
Sunscreens with Farnesol
We rate 52 sunscreens that contain it, showing the top 10 by overall score:
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Jean D'Arcel Solaire SPF 30
85/100
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Sarah Chapman Skin Insurance Spf 50+
83/100
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Lancaster Sun Sensitive Tinted Mattifying Fluid SPF 50
83/100
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Colorescience Even Up® Clinical Pigment Perfector® Spf 50
83/100
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Lancaster Sun Sport Cooling Invisible Mist SPF 50
82/100
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Colorescience Natural Finish Mineral Foundation SPF 20
79/100
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Melano CC ® UV Milk SPF 50
79/100
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Josie Maran Argan Daily Moisturizer Mineral Spf 47 Protect And Perfect
78/100
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Colorescience Mineral Corrector Palette SPF 20
78/100
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Dr Hauschka Gekleurde Zonnebrandcrème Gezicht SPF 30
75/100