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Moumoujus

HEXYL CINNAMAL.

Avoid CAS 101-86-0 / PERFUMING

Hexyl Cinnamal is a commonly used fragrance compound, imparting a jasmine-like floral aroma. While it exhibits minor antioxidant properties and can act as a preservative booster, its primary role in skincare formulations is olfactory. However, it is a recognized contact allergen with regulatory implications.

Summary

fragrance masking preservative booster antioxidant

Science

Mechanism of Action

Primarily functions as a fragrance or masking agent to neutralize undesirable odors in cosmetic formulations, delivering a characteristic floral scent. It also possesses mild antimicrobial action, contributing to product preservation, and exhibits antioxidant capacity, protecting cellular components from free radical damage, though it often requires co-stabilization for this purpose.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Low confidence
Effective range N/A
Optimal

N/A

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Commonly dusted
Min. effective
Above 0.01% in rinse-off products; above 0.001% in leave-on products (EU Cosmetics Regulation for labeling)%
Red flag below
~0.1% (general population susceptibility to contact allergy); below 0.01% (for sensitized individuals)%

Hexyl Cinnamal is required to be listed separately on ingredient labels in the EU due to its classification as a known contact allergen. This transparency, often referred to as 'dusting,' is crucial for consumers with sensitivities to identify and avoid products containing this ingredient, especially given its medium irritancy potential.

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Oil
Optimal pH 4 – 7
0 7 14

Stability

Generally stable under typical storage and use, including stability to alkali, making it suitable for soap bases. However, it is susceptible to oxidation upon air exposure, slowly forming acid, and requires protection from strong oxidizing agents, excessive heat, and direct sunlight, often achieved by stabilization with antioxidants like BHT or BHA.

Synergies

  • BHT
  • BHA

Conflicts

  • strong oxidizing agents (e.g., peroxides)
  • acids
  • excessive heat
  • direct sunlight

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Not reviewed
Max tested
EU labeling required above 0.01% (rinse-off) and 0.001% (leave-on)%
Sensitization risk High

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) typically defers to the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) for fragrance ingredient safety. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has assessed Hexyl Cinnamal, approving its use under specific restrictions as per Annex III of the EC Cosmetics Regulation. It is categorized as a human allergen and a possible human immune system toxicant, listed among the EU's 26 fragrances with recognized allergenic risk.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
No Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Avoid

While offering a pleasant fragrance and minor benefits, Hexyl Cinnamal presents a high sensitization risk, making it an unsuitable component for precision skincare, particularly for sensitive individuals.

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