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CINNAMOMUM CAMPHORA BRANCH/STEM OIL.

Valuable / FRAGRANCE

Cinnamomum Camphora Branch/Stem Oil is a multi-functional essential oil highly valued for its potent anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and cooling properties. It demonstrably reduces redness, combats acne-causing bacteria, and soothes skin irritation, while also stimulating regeneration and refining pores. Its efficacy is concentration-dependent, requiring precise formulation to maximize benefits and minimize potential skin reactions.

Summary

Anti-inflammatory Antibacterial Antifungal Cooling agent Mild anesthetic Wound healing Skin regeneration Antioxidant Astringent Sebum regulator Pore minimizer Penetration enhancer Microcirculation stimulant Fragrance Masking Skin conditioning Tonic

Science

Mechanism of Action

This essential oil acts on multiple epidermal pathways. It effectively calms skin by suppressing inflammatory mediators like TNF-α and IL-6, thereby reducing redness and inflammation. Its potent antibacterial action targets key acne-causing bacteria, including Propionibacterium acnes, alongside Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. By stimulating cold-sensitive TRPM8 receptors, it delivers an immediate cooling sensation, followed by a mild anesthetic effect that alleviates itching and discomfort. Furthermore, it supports skin regeneration through stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, improving elasticity and accelerating wound healing, while its antioxidant properties protect against environmental damage. It also functions as a mild astringent, helping to reduce pore visibility and regulate sebum production, and can enhance the absorption of other active ingredients.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 0.1–3%
Optimal

For general facial use, concentrations of 1% or less are recommended to prevent barrier disruption and sensitization. A 2% concentration has been shown to significantly reduce acne lesion counts.

Key findings

  1. 01 A 2% camphor gel significantly reduced acne lesion count over eight weeks with minimal side effects.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

Essential oils are susceptible to degradation from light and air exposure; therefore, blends should be stored in dark glass containers, away from heat and direct sunlight, to preserve their potency.

Synergies

  • Enhances the penetration of other active ingredients into the skin.

Conflicts

  • Must not be used undiluted.
  • Avoid application on open, broken, or compromised skin.
  • Avoid synthetic camphor or products labeled 'camphorated oil' due to potential irritants and health risks.
  • Overuse or daily application, especially at higher concentrations, can lead to skin barrier disruption and sensitization.

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Deferred evaluation
Max tested
11%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) has deferred evaluation as its safety has been assessed by the FDA. The FDA approves camphor as an active ingredient in OTC external analgesics, topical antitussive drug products, and anorectal products at concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 3%. In the United States, camphor content in any product must not exceed 11%. Pure camphor ingestion at 2g can cause severe poisoning, with 4g considered a lethal oral dose. Direct application to open wounds is contraindicated due to rapid bloodstream penetration and potential toxic effects. Only 'white camphor oil' is suitable for skincare formulations, as brown and yellow variants contain safrole, a potentially toxic compound. The EU Cosmetics Regulation allows its use under general provisions, but the SCCS has not specifically reviewed 'Cinnamomum Camphora Branch/Stem Oil'.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Valuable

Cinnamomum Camphora Branch/Stem Oil is a valuable ingredient for targeted skincare applications, offering significant anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits, particularly for oily and acne-prone skin, provided it is precisely formulated at safe concentrations to mitigate its moderate irritancy and sensitization risks.

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