Cinnamal

Benefits
UV Protection
Concerns
Allergen

What is Cinnamal?

Cinnamal, also called cinnamaldehyde, is a naturally occurring organic compound classified as an α,β-unsaturated aldehyde, primarily sourced from essential oils of cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum verum) and cassia (Cinnamomum cassia). This volatile, yellowish liquid emits a warm, spicy, clove-like aroma characteristic of cinnamon. In cosmetic formulations, it serves mainly in the fragrance category across perfumes, lotions, shampoos, soaps, and oral care items like toothpastes and lip products. It imparts distinctive scent profiles to top notes, neutralizes off-odors through masking, enhances flavor perception in ingestible products, and acts as a denaturant in alcohol-containing sprays and toners to render them non-potable per regulations. Its chemical structure enables strong olfactory binding and subtle film-forming effects on skin for prolonged scent diffusion.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 3-5 View on EWG →
PubChem View on PubChem →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Denaturant
Makes ethanol undrinkable (for regulatory/tax purposes) and can influence dry-down and sensory feel in alcohol-based sprays, toners, and fragrances.
Flavoring agent
Adds or adjusts taste and aroma in oral care and lip products, improving user acceptance while complementing the overall sensory profile.
Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Masking
Reduces perception of unpleasant odors or tastes by neutralizing them or covering them with more acceptable sensory notes.

Benefits

Enhances products with a warm, cinnamon-like scent for enjoyable sensory experience.

Supports UV light absorption properties in formulations.

Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals preferring spicy, aromatic fragrances in perfumes and body products.
Those with known fragrance or cinnamon allergies.
Users of oral care items seeking familiar flavor notes.
Individuals prone to contact dermatitis.
People with non-sensitive skin using denatured alcohol-based toners or sprays.
People with highly reactive or atopic skin conditions.

Safety Notes

  • Recognized as a common fragrance allergen requiring declaration in regulated regions.
  • Use limited by industry standards to minimize sensitization risks.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cinnamal

What does cinnamal smell like?

It has a strong, warm, spicy aroma reminiscent of cinnamon, often used in top notes of fragrances.

Is cinnamal comedogenic?

Rated 0 for comedogenicity, meaning it does not typically clog pores.

Why is cinnamal used as a denaturant?

It renders alcohol-based products undrinkable for regulatory compliance while adding sensory qualities.