Ingredient
Cinnamyl Alcohol
What is Cinnamyl Alcohol?
Cinnamyl Alcohol is an organic compound that belongs to the family of aldehydo alcohols. It is naturally found in storax, balsam, and cinnamon leaves and can also be synthetically produced through the hydrolysis of cinnamyl esters.
This compound is predominantly used as a fragrance ingredient in perfumes and other scented products. It is known for its sweet, balsamic odor. There is some evidence suggesting that Cinnamyl Alcohol can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
When you see Cinnamyl Alcohol on a label, it is most commonly present for its pleasant scent rather than a functional role in terms of preserving or altering the product.
Commonly found in: Perfumes, Colognes, Lotions, Creams
What to watch
- May cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Cinnamyl Alcohol is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use as a flavoring agent by the FDA, but any cosmetic use must comply with the general safety standard requiring no harm to users.
Studies show that Cinnamyl Alcohol can cause dermatitis in susceptible individuals, but is considered safe when used in moderation.
Cinnamyl Alcohol is derived from plant sources or is synthetically produced, making it vegan-friendly.
Sources: Safety Assessment of Cinnamyl Alcohol as Used in Cosmetics
Scout's take
IFRA / EU-declared fragrance allergen; oxidizes in air to cinnamaldehyde, a strong contact sensitizer.
The case against
There are minimal risks, primarily related to potential skin irritation.
from the analysis of e.l.f. Squeeze Me Lip Balm - StrawberryThe case for
It provides a pleasant scent to the product.
from the analysis of e.l.f. Squeeze Me Lip Balm - StrawberryMore from Scout's analyses
IFRA / EU-declared fragrance allergen; required on the label because it exceeds 0.001% in this leave-on product. Converts on skin to cinnamal, one of the most potent regulated contact allergens.
from the analysis of Louis Vuitton Ombre Nomade Eau de ParfumCinnamyl Alcohol is used as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics. It imparts a pleasant scent to the product. It is considered safe for use in cosmetics.
from the analysis of e.l.f. Squeeze Me Lip Balm - StrawberryFound in 6 products
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