Many everyday products that we wouldn’t typically associate with fragrance or allergens actually contain linalool, a common fragrance compound.
Items like baby powder, baby oil, and first aid products, including Caladryl and over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams, may contain linalool as part of their formulations.
Even products marketed as "fragrance-free" or "unscented" can be misleading.
While "fragrance-free" generally means no added fragrances, it doesn't guarantee that the product is completely free of compounds like linalool.
Instead, "unscented" often indicates that a product doesn't claim a specific scent, but it can still contain fragrance ingredients, including linalool, to mask or neutralize odors.
For individuals with fragrance sensitivities or allergies, it's crucial to carefully read labels and ingredients lists, as terms like "fragrance-free" don't always mean what they seem.
Many people are surprised to learn that products we wouldn't normally associate with fragrances or allergens can contain linalool. Here are some items that might contain linalool, even though they don't typically smell strongly of fragrance:
Baby powder
Baby oil
First aid products like Caladryl or OTC hydrocortisone cream
Shaving creams and gels
Hand sanitizers
Toothpaste and mouthwash
Lip balms and glosses
Cleansers and disinfectants
Laundry detergents and fabric softeners
Dish soaps
Deodorants (especially those labeled as "unscented")
Air fresheners (including those with "natural" scents)
Even items labeled as "unscented" or "fragrance-free" may still contain linalool to mask other odors or maintain product stability. For anyone sensitive to linalool or fragrance allergens, it's essential to read ingredient labels closely to avoid unexpected exposure.
Linalool is naturally occurring in many plants. As such, it is in many essential oils - especially lavender! Stay away from lavender essential oils especially if you have a linalool allergy.
Products that contain Fragrance / Linalool
Caladryl Clear Anti-Itch Gel
Caladryl Calamine Lotion
Johnson & Johnson Baby Powder
Johnson & Johnson Baby Oil
Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Lotion
Scented Tampons and Pads (Various Brands)
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel – Some formulations of this product contain linalool as part of their fragrance blend.
Dove Beauty Bar (Sensitive Skin) – Marketed as fragrance-free, but may still contain linalool or other fragrance ingredients.
Olay Regenerist Moisturizing Cream – Some of Olay's moisturizers contain linalool even if the fragrance isn't overtly noticeable.
Clorox Disinfecting Wipes – Some of these wipes, especially the "fresh" versions, may contain fragrance ingredients like linalool.
Mrs. Meyers Clean Day All Purpose Cleaner (Lavender Scent) – Though marketed as a natural cleaner, it contains essential oils, including linalool.
Seventh Generation Free & Clear Laundry Detergent – Although labeled as fragrance-free, it may still contain trace amounts of linalool or other scent-masking ingredients.
Aloe Vera Gel (Various Brands) – Aloe gels, even those labeled as unscented, sometimes contain fragrance ingredients such as linalool.
Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash – Contains traces of linalool in the fragrance mix.
Tom’s of Maine Natural Deodorant – While some variants are marketed as “fragrance-free,” they may still contain natural essential oils with linalool.
Secret Clinical Strength Deodorant – Some "unscented" versions may still contain fragrance elements like linalool.
Air Wick Freshmatic Automatic Spray – Even the "unscented" version can contain linalool or other fragrance compounds to mask chemical smells.
Febreze Fabric Refresher – Some varieties contain linalool as part of their fragrance mix, even if labeled "lightly scented" or "unscented."
Even when products are labeled "unscented" or "fragrance-free," it's important to understand that these terms don't always mean the absence of all fragrance compounds. They often refer to the lack of a prominent added fragrance but may still include ingredients like linalool to help mask other odors or preserve the product. Always check ingredient lists carefully if you are trying to avoid linalool or other allergens.
Linalool is naturally occurring in Cannabis.
Unfortunately, if you have a linalool allergy, you are allergic to Cannabis!
Linalool is present in most essential oils! View our summary of the most common essential oils and their linalool content.