According to a study published in Cosmetics Journal, commissioned by Quintis Sandalwood, researchers found that Indian sandalwood oil may be a more potent antioxidant than lipophilic antioxidant vitamin E (alpha tocopherol).
Sandalwood oil is the essential oil obtained by steam distillation of the aromatic heartwood of Santalum album. The oil known for its soft, warm and woody odor.
French and Australian researchers found that the oil is capable of significantly decreasing the damage to the collagen in skin tissues caused by stressors, such as blue light from solar and digital sources, and pollution from cigarette smoke.
“In the study, when isolated skin tissue was exposed to simulated environmental pollution including cigarette and ozone, the enzyme MMP1, which digests the collagen tissue was increased,” explained Dhanushka Hettiarachchi, Ph.D., product manager for Quintis Sandalwood. “However, when the skin isolates were treated with sandalwood oil, the enzyme MMP1 was decreased, suggesting the collagen protective effect of Indian sandalwood reduces the appearance of wrinkles.”
These findings indicate that Indian sandalwood oil could serve as a protective and anti-aging active ingredient in cosmetics and skin care through a range of applications.
Last updated: December 26th, 2025
