Best For Skin Types
All
What Is Cinnamal?
Cinnamal is an organic compound derived from cinnamon oil and other natural sources. In cosmetics, it functions primarily as a fragrance ingredient and denaturant (a substance added to make a product unsuitable for ingestion).
Within skincare formulations, cinnamal is used in small amounts to contribute to the scent profile of a product. It is present in approximately 0.4% of skincare products on the market.
How It Works
Cinnamal operates primarily as a fragrance agent, dispersing in the formulation to provide sensory appeal. The compound has been studied in other contexts for antioxidant potential, which relates to its chemical structure containing conjugated double bonds that can neutralise free radicals. However, the concentrations used in skincare products are typically too low to deliver meaningful antioxidant benefit to the skin.
Clinical Evidence & References
Direct clinical evidence for cinnamal's efficacy in skincare is sparse. Most research into cinnamal's biological activity comes from non-skincare contexts or uses concentrations higher than those found in cosmetics. The ingredient is included in formulations primarily for fragrance rather than therapeutic benefit.
Broader research on antioxidant compounds suggests that protection against oxidative stress can support skin health, but there is no robust evidence specific to cinnamal in topical skincare applications at cosmetic-use concentrations.
Published Research
How to Use
Cinnamal is used by formulators rather than consumers—you do not select it directly. If a product lists it in the INCI declaration, it will be present in the formulation as part of the fragrance system. Use the product as directed by the brand, and discontinue if you notice any signs of irritation.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
From the Clinic
Not sure what your skin actually needs?
Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.
Take the skin quizRelated Ingredients
Castor Oil
Plant-derived skin care ingredient Used as an emollient which helps decrease water loss
Cedrus Atlantica Bark Oil
A cedarwood-derived oil traditionally used for fragrance and skin conditioning
Chrysanthal
A fragrance compound that adds sensory appeal to skincare formulations
Cinnamic Acid
A plant-derived compound with fragrance and skin-conditioning properties
Cinnamomum Camphora Linalooliferum Wood Oil
A fragrant wood oil traditionally used in skincare formulations for sensory appeal
Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Leaf Oil
A fragrant essential oil with potential antioxidant and purifying properties
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.