CITRAL
Commonly Found In
Overview
Citral is a naturally occurring acyclic monoterpene aldehyde that exists as a mixture of two geometric isomers: geranial (citral A) and neral (citral B). It is the dominant component of lemongrass oil (70β85%) and lemon myrtle (90β98%), providing intense lemon-citrus character. Citral is a mandatory EU labeling allergen in cosmetics above 0.001% in leave-on products (Annex III/70). Studies indicate moderate sensitization potential, and citral is also a precursor molecule used in the synthesis of vitamin A and other terpenoids industrially. It is permitted in the US and Japan without specific labeling requirements.
Also known as: Citral, Geranial (Citral A), Neral (Citral B), 3,7-Dimethyl-2,6-octadienal, Lemonal
Key Benefits
Citral's cosmetic value is primarily as a fragrance and flavoring ingredient; studies suggest some antimicrobial activity at higher concentrations, but this is not the basis for its cosmetic use.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Non-comedogenic; volatile terpene aldehyde that evaporates from the skin surface.
Source: SCCS/1588/17
Irritancy Rating
Moderate sensitization potential; EU mandatory label disclosure required above 0.001% (leave-on); citral is reactive as an aldehyde and may cause sensitization particularly in leave-on products
Source: EU SCCS fragrance allergen opinions; CIR Expert Panel
Typical Use Concentration
Range
0.001β2%
Optimal
0.01β0.5% in fragrance blends
EU mandatory labeling above 0.001% (leave-on) / 0.01% (rinse-off). IFRA limits apply by product category. Also serves as a precursor in vitamin A synthesis industrially.
Works Well With / Avoid
Works Well With
Use With Caution
EU mandatory label disclosure (Annex III/70) above 0.001% in leave-on products. As an aldehyde, citral may be more reactive than terpene alcohols; antioxidants and appropriate packaging help maintain stability. IFRA provides concentration limits by product category.
Commonly Found In
Global Regulation Summary
Overview of current status across major international markets.
Detailed Regional Status
| Region | Status | Max Conc. | Conditions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| πͺπΊ EU | Banned | - | - | Official β |
| πΊπΈ USA | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π―π΅ Japan | Allowed | - | - | Official β |
| π°π· Korea | Unknown | - | - | Official β |
| π¬π§ UK | Restricted | - | Follows EU regulations (III/70) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
The EU requires mandatory label disclosure of citral (Annex III/70) as part of the 26 fragrance allergen labeling regime; it is not prohibited. The 'banned' database status reflects the Annex III restricted classification. The US and Japan do not require specific labeling for citral in cosmetics. IFRA provides voluntary concentration guidance internationally.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 8 ingredients in the FLAVOURING category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Major component of lemongrass oil (70-85%), lemon myrtle (90-98%), may chang oil (65-85%), and litsea cubeba oil (60-80%). Also found in lemon peel (2-5%), lime, orange, and verbena. Citral is actually a mixture of two geometric isomers: geranial (citral A) and neral (citral B).
π How It's Made
Extracted from lemongrass or litsea cubeba oil through steam distillation and fractional distillation. Synthetically produced via dehydrogenation of geraniol or nerol, or through aldol condensation followed by selective hydrogenation. Both natural and synthetic citral are widely used commercially, with synthetic versions offering cost advantages.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Used as fragrance and flavoring component in lemon-scented and citrus products at 0.01-2% concentration. Provides intense lemon, citrus aroma. EU Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 Annex III/70 requires mandatory labeling above 0.001% (leave-on) or 0.01% (rinse-off). Often used in combination with other citrus notes to create fresh, clean fragrances.
π¬ Other Applications
Used as a lemon flavoring in beverages, candies, and baked goods. Also used in insect repellent products and as a building block for making vitamin A.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ One of 26 fragrance allergens that must be listed on EU cosmetic labels since 2003
- β’ The main compound that gives lemons and lemongrass their characteristic citrus scent
- β’ Used as a starting material for making vitamin A and violet-scented perfume ingredients
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database (Annex III/70)
- β’ SCCS fragrance allergen opinions
- β’ CIR Expert Panel β citral safety assessment
- β’ IFRA Standards
Last data verification: 2026-04-16
Related Ingredients
CINNAMAL
ABIES ALBA CONE EXTRACT
BENZYL ALCOHOL
CEDRUS ATLANTICA BARK OIL
CITRONELLOL
CITRUS LIMON PEEL OIL
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CITRAL banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning CITRAL under III/70 due to potential safety concerns. The US FDA has not found sufficient evidence to prohibit its use, allowing it under different safety assessment standards. This reflects differing regulatory philosophies between the two regions.
Why is CITRAL banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits CITRAL (III/70) based on their strict safety criteria. Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has evaluated the ingredient and permits its use, potentially with different safety data or usage conditions.
What is CITRAL used for in cosmetics?
CITRAL is primarily used for flavouring in cosmetic products. It also serves as perfuming. The ingredient is commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products.
Which countries regulate CITRAL?
CITRAL is banned in EU. It has concentration limits or usage restrictions in UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to CITRAL?
Due to regulatory restrictions on CITRAL, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For flavouring, alternatives may include other approved ingredients in the same category. Consult product labels for specific formulations, and look for products compliant with your region's regulations.
Disclaimer
The information on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. While we strive for accuracy based on official government databases, cosmetic regulations change frequently. Always consult with a qualified professional or refer to the latest official regulatory documents for compliance. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided here.