Sandalwood Oil Average Fragrance Synthetic and Natural Anti-Ageing Sandalwood Oil at a glance Oil extracted from sandalwood tree bark Often used as a perfuming agent Also has potent antioxidant properties Can cause skin sensitization Sandalwood Oil description Sandalwood oil is an essential oil extracted from the wood of various species of sandalwood trees. It is a fragrant oil and has been a commonly used component in perfumes and colognes for centuries. Though sandalwood oil is often added to cosmetics to impart or mask a scent, there is emerging research showing its benefit for skin beyond a pleasant smell. Studies find sandalwood oil, as with most plant-derived ingredients, has antioxidant benefits. This is particularly true when fighting oxidative stress caused by environmental stressors such as cigarette smoke and ozone exposure. Unfortunately, as with many volatile oils, sandalwood contains compounds that can cause skin sensitization. The risk of irritation is greater the larger the amount of sandalwood oil is used, and most cosmetics products use a carrier oil (such as jojoba) to reduce the potential of a reaction. Pure sandalwood oil should never be applied directly to skin. Related ingredients: Pterocarpus Santalinus