Cinnamic Acid

Cinnamic acid is an aromatic organic acid found in cinnamon and also made synthetically. It's used in perfumes and cosmetics to give warm, balsamic notes and as a precursor for fragrance esters, though higher levels can raise sensitization risk.
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Ingredient Snapshot

Overview
A cinnamon-derived fragrance note that can be sensitizing for some.
Category
Fragrance
Type
Fragrance

Ingredient Ratings

Overall Rating

Fair

Comedogenic Risk

None

Skin Benefits

Provides a warm, sweet-spice aroma that makes products smell richer and more inviting. May provoke sensitivity in some users, so a patch test is wise.

Uses In Skincare & Cosmetics

Appears in perfumes, moisturizers, and shampoos to round out scent profiles or support other aroma ingredients.

Comedogenic Rating

This ingredient is not typically evaluated for comedogenicity, and no standardized rating is available.

Safety

Can irritate sensitive or compromised skin and may trigger sensitization in some individuals; avoid use on broken skin and discontinue if redness occurs. Typically used at low concentrations, often guided by industry standards (e.g., IFRA).

Is Cinnamic Acid a Good Ingredient?

It provides warm, balsamic scent nuances but offers no direct skin care benefit and has a sensitization/irritation risk at higher or prolonged exposure. Best used at low levels; patch testing is prudent for sensitive users. Limited proof of benefit weighed against the risk keeps it at Fair.

Products with Cinnamic Acid

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