Ingredient dictionary

Camphor

Camphor is a waxy white crystal with a strong, sharp scent. In cosmetics it is mainly used to add fragrance and a cooling, tingling feel. It is on the label of 13 products in our library. Checked against our library November 6, 2026.

The catch: camphor is not flagged in our ingredient families, but it can irritate sensitive skin and should never be swallowed.

What Camphor does

Adds a sharp, fresh scent
Gives a brisk, tingling feel
Dissolves easily in oils and balms

Natural camphor comes from the wood of the camphor laurel tree, usually through steam distillation. Synthetic camphor is also produced chemically. At room temperature it is a white, waxy solid with a penetrating smell.

Formulators use camphor mainly for its sharp, fresh scent. It also gives a brisk, tingling feel on the skin that many people find cooling. Because it can irritate at higher levels, it is used in small amounts. It dissolves well in oils, so it suits balms and creams.

Good for

People who enjoy a fresh, sharp scent and a tingling feel on skin, and who don't react to it.

Be careful if

Camphor is not flagged in our ingredient families, but it can irritate sensitive skin and should never be swallowed.

Frequently asked questions

Is camphor safe in skincare?

At the low levels used in cosmetics, camphor is generally tolerated by most people. It can irritate sensitive or broken skin, though, and people with reactive skin may prefer to avoid it. Check how your skin reacts before using a new product regularly.

Can camphor be used on lips?

Camphor is sometimes found in lip balms, but lips are easy to lick, and camphor should never be swallowed. Avoid it on cracked or broken lips, and keep these products away from children. If anyone swallows camphor, contact a doctor or poison center right away.