Best For Skin Types
All
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Hexyl Cinnamal?
Hexyl cinnamal is a synthetic fragrance ingredient derived from cinnamaldehyde, a naturally occurring compound found in cinnamon. It belongs to a class of chemicals called fragrance allergens and is used primarily for its pleasant scent profile in cosmetic and personal care products.
In skincare formulations, hexyl cinnamal serves purely as a perfuming agent — it does not provide any direct therapeutic benefit to the skin. It is used in roughly 5.4% of skincare products and is particularly common in household detergents and cleaning products.
How It Works
Hexyl cinnamal works simply as an odorant, triggering olfactory receptors to produce the perception of scent. It has no active mechanism on skin physiology or structure.
Clinical Evidence & References
Hexyl cinnamal is classified as a skin sensitizer under the Globally Harmonised Scheme (GHS), meaning it has the potential to trigger allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals. Research indicates that whilst its skin-sensitizing potency is considered relatively low compared to other fragrance chemicals, it remains a recognised allergen.
Studies using predictive testing methods have shown variable results, with some in vitro assays failing to detect reactivity whilst in vivo data support its sensitising potential. For individuals with fragrance sensitivity or a history of contact dermatitis, hexyl cinnamal may pose a risk of adverse reaction.
How to Use
If you have sensitive skin or a known fragrance allergy, check product ingredient lists for hexyl cinnamal and consider fragrance-free alternatives. Fragrance-free products are available in most skincare categories and may be better tolerated if you experience irritation or allergic reactions.
Safety & Precautions
How widely it's used
Regulatory information
Standardised cosmetic-ingredient identifiers used by regulators.
Show identifiers
- INCI Name
- HEXYL CINNAMAL
- EC Number
- 202-983-3/639-566-4
- Function
- Perfuming
Frequently Asked Questions
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