Ingredient
Benzyl Cinnamate
What is Benzyl Cinnamate?
Benzyl Cinnamate is an organic compound used primarily in the cosmetics and fragrance industries. It is synthesized by esterifying cinnamic acid with benzyl alcohol.
Commonly used for its sweet, balsamic aroma, Benzyl Cinnamate acts as a fragrance ingredient, enhancing the scent profile of many personal care products. In terms of health evidence, most concerns about Benzyl Cinnamate revolve around potential skin sensitization, though such reactions appear to be relatively rare.
When you see Benzyl Cinnamate on a label, it's often as part of a fragrant blend designed to improve the sensory experience of the product rather than for therapeutic or preservative purposes.
Commonly found in: perfumes, body lotions, deodorants, soaps, shampoos
What to watch
- May cause skin sensitization or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Benzyl Cinnamate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in specified applications.
Some studies suggest it can cause skin irritation, but evidence is not conclusive and such occurrences appear limited to sensitive individuals.
Benzyl Cinnamate is synthetic or plant-derived, making it suitable for vegan use.
Sources: Everything Added to Food in the United States (EAFUS): A Food Additive Database · Benzyl Cinnamate Overview
Scout's take
IFRA / EU-declared fragrance allergen; cinnamate-class compounds are frequent contact sensitizers.
More from Scout's analyses
IFRA / EU-declared fragrance allergen. Cinnamate-family sensitizer found in Peru Balsam.
from the analysis of Abel Cobalt Amber Eau de ParfumFound in 5 products
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