Cinnamyl Alcohol
Natural aromatic alcohol from cinnamon bark and hyacinth. On the EU list of 26 fragrance allergens.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Oxidizes on air and forms stronger sensitizers. Risk grows in opened tubes past expiration.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- High
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Cinnamyl Alcohol is a natural aromatic alcohol, found in cinnamon bark, hyacinths, frankincense, Peru balsam. In cosmetics, synthetic or plant-derived is used as a fragrance with a light, sweet, floral-balsamic note. Less intense than cinnamal, but in the same fragrance family. Where applied. Perfumes (oriental, floral, gourmand compositions), creams, lotions, shampoos, hair products, hygiene products. Concentration 0.001-0.2%. In Spain – in mass and niche perfumery Loewe, Carolina Herrera, Roger & Gallet. Allergenicity. Listed in the EU 2003 mandatory 26-fragrance allergens (Regulation 1223/2009). At leave-on >0.001% or rinse-off >0.01% – manufacturer must label "Cinnamyl Alcohol". Evidence base. Positive patch-test reactions in 1-3% of the European general population (Diepgen 2016), lower than cinnamal. In fragrance-dermatitis patients – up to 15%. Cross-reactivity with cinnamal, Peru balsam, cinnamyl acetate. Safety. SCCS in 2012 concluded: safe at <0.02% in leave-on and <0.2% in rinse-off products. On damaged skin systemic absorption rises. Do not use in fragrance contact allergy. Eczema-patient controversy. Free fragrance molecules (including cinnamyl alcohol) on damaged skin penetrate the epidermis more easily and cause sensitization. Atopic patients have 3-5x higher contact-dermatitis risk from fragranced cosmetics than healthy patients (Heisterberg 2011). Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. Topically at cosmetic concentrations safe for the fetus. Contact-sensitization risk in the pregnant patient is unchanged. Do not apply on damaged skin. Suitable for. Healthy adult skin. Atopic, eczema, fragrance-dermatitis patients – avoid products with cinnamyl alcohol, choose "fragrance-free" pharmacy lines (CeraVe, La Roche-Posay Toleriane, Eucerin DermoPure).
Frequently asked questions
Is Cinnamyl Alcohol safe during pregnancy?
Cinnamyl Alcohol should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Cinnamyl Alcohol for?
Cinnamyl Alcohol suits: normal, dry, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
Can Cinnamyl Alcohol irritate the skin?
Cinnamyl Alcohol has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Can Cinnamyl Alcohol cause an allergic reaction?
Cinnamyl Alcohol has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
What is Cinnamyl Alcohol and what does it do in cosmetics?
Natural aromatic alcohol from cinnamon bark and hyacinth.
What's the INCI name for Cinnamyl Alcohol?
The INCI name is Cinnamyl Alcohol. It may also appear as: 3-Phenyl-2-Propen-1-Ol.
See Cinnamyl Alcohol in a product composition right on the store page
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