Plant extracts
Eucalyptus oil
Also listed as Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil
A fresh, cooling scent in body washes, lotions and balms. It adds fragrance and a tingle, not a skin benefit, and is toxic if swallowed.
No real evidence
What it is
Eucalyptus oil is mostly 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), which gives the familiar medicinal, cooling smell. In body care it is a fragrance ingredient, often paired with mint for a tingling feel. Any 'clearing' sensation from a eucalyptus body wash comes from the scent.
How strong is the evidence?
No real evidenceNo trials show eucalyptus oil in personal-care products benefits skin. Its effects are sensory: scent and a mild cooling feeling.
What it's used for, checked
A refreshing, cooling feel
Holds upA real sensory effect, and the reason it's used.
Skin benefits (soothing, antibacterial)
UnprovenNo trials in personal-care products.
Who should be careful
- As an essential-oil fragrance it can irritate or cause allergy, especially on shaved or broken skin.
- Keep bottles of eucalyptus oil away from children; swallowing small amounts can cause serious poisoning.
- Don't apply eucalyptus products near the nose or face of babies and young children.