LAURUS NOBILIS OIL
Commonly Found In
Overview
LAURUS NOBILIS OIL is a cosmetic ingredient primarily used for FRAGRANCE. It is commonly found in various cosmetic formulations and serves important functions in personal care products.
Also known as: Bay Laurel Oil, Sweet Bay Oil, Bay Leaf Oil, Mediterranean Bay Oil
Key Benefits
Studies suggest laurel berry oil may have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Traditional use in Aleppo soap (laurier soap) suggests possible cleansing benefits. However, its eugenol content makes it a potential sensitizer, and it is banned in EU/UK cosmetics.
Skin Compatibility Ratings
Comedogenic Rating
Bay laurel essential oil; contains lauric acid and eugenol. Moderate comedogenic potential due to oil composition.
Source: Assessment based on fatty acid composition (lauric acid dominant) and botanical oil comedogenicity data
Irritancy Rating
Contains eugenol, linalool, and other known fragrance allergens; moderate to high irritation/sensitization potential, especially at higher concentrations.
Source: SCCS/1459/11 β Opinion on fragrance allergens in cosmetic products
Typical Use Concentration
Range
N/A (banned in EU/UK)
Optimal
N/A
Where historically used, low concentrations were typical due to strong aroma and sensitization potential.
Works Well With / Avoid
Avoid Combining
Use With Caution
Banned in EU and UK (Annex II/359). Eugenol is a recognized skin allergen. Traditional Aleppo soap contains laurel berry oil (different from leaf essential oil) and has a long history of use in the Middle East.
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 | Banned | - | Follows EU regulations (II/359) | Official β |
π Why Regulations Differ
EU and UK ban laurel oil (Annex II/359) primarily due to the eugenol allergen content and overall sensitization risk. The US and Japan permit use with general safety requirements and industry allergen guidelines.
Regulation Analysis
Regional Agreement
Banned in EU, UK but allowed in USA, Japan.
Category Comparison
There are 122 ingredients in the FRAGRANCE category. 100% are banned in at least one major market.
Strictness Ranking
πΏ Natural Sources
Steam-distilled from leaves and sometimes berries of Laurus nobilis (bay laurel, sweet bay). Native to the Mediterranean region, cultivated since ancient times.
π How It's Made
Steam distillation of fresh or dried bay leaves yields essential oil containing 1,8-cineole (30-50%), eugenol, and other terpenes. Laurel berry oil is extracted separately and has different composition.
π Uses in Cosmetics
Banned in EU (Annex II/359) and UK, allowed in US and Japan. Historically used for fragrance and claimed antimicrobial properties. Eugenol content raises allergen and sensitization concerns. Rarely used in modern formulations due to regulatory restrictions and safety issues.
π¬ Other Applications
Culinary herb (dried bay leaves in cooking), traditional medicine for digestive and respiratory ailments, aromatherapy. Veterinary applications in some regions.
π‘ Fun Facts
- β’ Bay laurel wreaths crowned ancient Greek and Roman victors - the word 'laureate' derives from Laurus
- β’ Not to be confused with toxic California bay (Umbellularia californica) which has much higher camphor content
- β’ EU ban likely due to eugenol allergen content rather than a single dramatic safety incident
Related Skin Concerns
Data Sources
- β’ EU CosIng database β Annex II/359
- β’ IFRA Standards on eugenol-containing oils
- β’ Traditional use records of Aleppo soap
Last data verification: 2026-04-12
Related Ingredients
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CITRUS AURANTIFOLIA PEEL OIL
CITRUS LIMON PEEL OIL
CITRUS PARADISI PEEL OIL
DIBUTYL PHTHALATE
DIETHYLHEXYL PHTHALATE
Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is LAURUS NOBILIS OIL banned in the EU but allowed in the US?
The EU follows a precautionary principle, banning LAURUS NOBILIS OIL under II/359 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 LAURUS NOBILIS OIL banned in the EU but allowed in Japan?
The EU prohibits LAURUS NOBILIS OIL (II/359) 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 LAURUS NOBILIS OIL used for in cosmetics?
LAURUS NOBILIS OIL is primarily used for fragrance in cosmetic products. It also serves as refreshing, tonic. The ingredient is commonly found in perfumes, colognes, and scented cosmetics.
Which countries regulate LAURUS NOBILIS OIL?
LAURUS NOBILIS OIL is banned in EU, UK. The ingredient is freely allowed in JP, US.
Are there alternatives to LAURUS NOBILIS OIL?
Due to regulatory restrictions on LAURUS NOBILIS OIL, cosmetic manufacturers often use alternative ingredients with similar functions. For fragrance, 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.