Ingredients

Hexyl Cinnamal

What hexyl cinnamal does as a fragrance ingredient, why it may be named on labels, and how fragrance-sensitive shoppers can approach it.

ScentIn 11 products we cover

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Quick facts

INCI name
Hexyl Cinnamal
CAS number
364364-06-7
Origin
Synthetic
Chemical class
Aromatic aldehyde
What it does in a formula
perfuming
Why it is in the formula
It contributes a floral fragrance note to scented cosmetics and fragrance mixtures.
Regulatory notes
Hexyl cinnamal is among the fragrance allergens subject to ingredient-label disclosure requirements under EU cosmetics rules above specified levels.

What it is

Required on European cosmetics labels due to fragrance allergen transparency rules, hexyl cinnamal is a floral scent material that imparts a characteristic jasmine-like aroma. Also called hexyl cinnamaldehyde, it can be added as an isolated aromatic or enter through complex perfume compositions. Its mandatory inclusion on an ingredient list helps fragrance-sensitive shoppers identify exposure, though it does not detail the entire scent profile.

What it does

  • Adds a floral note. Hexyl cinnamal is used for fragrance rather than as a hydrator or treatment ingredient.
  • Appears in fragrance blends. It can be included as a separate ingredient or as part of an aromatic mixture.
  • Helps identify an allergen. Its disclosure is relevant to people who already know they need to avoid it. It is a scent ingredient, not a skincare essential.

Who it suits

People who enjoy scented skincare and have no known sensitivity to hexyl cinnamal may choose products containing it. People with a confirmed allergy should avoid it and follow their clinician’s advice. Anyone choosing to avoid fragrance should skip hexyl cinnamal and check for other scent materials, including fragrance and essential oils. Fragrance is an optional feature, not a requirement for basic skincare.

On US labels, the ingredient may be listed individually or be part of a fragrance mixture. That means the absence of a separate hexyl cinnamal line does not prove a scented formula is free of it. Its presence also does not predict that everyone will react. If a product repeatedly causes irritation, stop using it and consider the full formula. A dermatologist can help assess a recurring or suspected contact allergy.

What to pair it with, and what not to

Hexyl cinnamal is used for scent and does not need to be combined with an active ingredient. If you are avoiding fragrance, look for products without fragrance and essential oils, and review the full ingredient list. There is nothing to add to balance it.

Skin Realist check: A floral note is a choice, not a skincare step. The best routine is allowed to smell like almost nothing.

Quick picks with Hexyl Cinnamal

Picked from label facts only. We haven't tested these products.

All 11 products with Hexyl Cinnamal

High-Definition Camouflage Concealers (3)

Hydrating Toners, Essence Waters & Face Mists (2)

Body Creams, Butters & Body Oils (2)

Full-Coverage Camouflage & Liquid Foundations (1)

Targeted Vitamin C & Brightening Correctors (1)

Intensive Lip Recovery Masks & Tinted Balms (1)

Lipsticks, Glosses & Lip Liners (1)

Common questions

What is hexyl cinnamal in skincare?

Hexyl cinnamal is a fragrance ingredient used for its floral scent, often described as jasmine-like. It is not included to moisturize or exfoliate skin.

Is hexyl cinnamal a fragrance allergen?

It is a recognized fragrance allergen for some people and is subject to EU ingredient-label disclosure rules above specified levels. Many people use fragranced products without a known sensitivity, but a confirmed allergy is a reason to avoid it.

Can I avoid hexyl cinnamal by checking a US label?

It may be listed by name or included in a fragrance mixture, depending on the product and labeling rules. Not seeing a separate hexyl cinnamal line does not guarantee that a scented product is free of it.

Should I avoid hexyl cinnamal if I avoid fragrance?

Yes. If you prefer to avoid fragrance, skip products listing hexyl cinnamal and check for other fragrance ingredients. It is a scent component, not necessary for a moisturizer to do its basic job.

Sources