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Sandalwood, scientifically known as Santalum album, has been treasured for centuries for its calming fragrance and traditional healing properties. Beyond its cultural and aromatic uses, modern science is now uncovering its potential benefits for skin health. One of its key natural compounds, alpha-santalol , has attracted growing interest for its possible role in preventing and slowing the development of skin cancer. With its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, sandalwood oil may help protect skin cells from damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) exposure and oxidative stress, two major contributors to skin ageing and cancer. Today, sandalwood is being explored as a gentle, plant-based option for maintaining healthy, resilient skin.



How sandalwood might help prevent skin cancer
Sandalwood oil is extracted from the heartwood of the sandalwood tree, with the majority of its active component being alpha-santalol

According to sandalwood oil has shown strong protective effects against skin cancer in laboratory and animal studies. When applied topically, it was found to significantly reduce the growth and number of skin tumours. The key compound in sandalwood oil, called alpha-santalol, helps stop abnormal skin cells from multiplying by halting their growth cycle, allowing the body to naturally remove them.

The study also suggests that sandalwood oil reduces inflammation, blocks certain enzymes that promote tumour growth, and boosts the body’s antioxidant defences, especially enzymes like glutathione S-transferase, which protect skin cells from damage. These combined effects make sandalwood oil a promising natural agent for maintaining healthy skin and supporting cancer prevention.




Mechanisms of action: How sandalwood fights inflammation and cell damage
Cell cycle arrest and apoptosis: by forcing damaged or potentially abnormal skin cells to stop dividing or commit to programmed cell-death rather than progressing to malignancy.

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects: Reducing skin inflammation and oxidative stress are key for preventing the damage which can lead to skin cancers.

Enzyme inhibition: For example, suppression of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity, an enzyme involved in cell proliferation, was shown in animal studies.



Practical ways to incorporate sandalwood for skin health

While human clinical trials remain limited, here are some practical ways one might consider using sandalwood oil in a skin-health routine (always in consultation with a healthcare or skin-care professional):

• Topical use: Choosing a high-quality sandalwood oil (e.g., from Santalum album), dilute it properly and apply to clean skin, especially in sun-exposed zones, as part of a general skin-care routine.

• Skincare formulations: Use creams or lotions that contain sandalwood extract alongside broad-spectrum sun protection (SPF) and skin-repair products.

• Lifestyle integration: While sandalwood may support skin health, it should be paired with sun-protection habits (hats, shade, sunscreen), regular skin self-checks, and avoidance of repeated sunburns.

What to keep in mind and precautions

• Not a substitute for sun protection: Sandalwood oil may assist, but it is not a replacement for sunscreen, protective clothing, and regular skin checks.

• Quality matters: Ensure the oil is genuine, properly sourced, and labelled, as adulterated or low-grade oils may cause skin irritation.

• Patch testing: Essential oils can provoke allergic reactions; always patch test before wide application.

• Existing skin conditions and treatments: If you have inflammatory skin disease, a history of skin cancer, or are using other treatments, check with your dermatologist before adding sandalwood oil.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, medication, or lifestyle.



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