Ingredient

Cinnamyl Alcohol

A fragrance ingredient (occurs naturally in storax, Balsam of Peru and cinnamon leaves; usually made from cinnamaldehyde) with a sweet, balsamic, hyacinth-like floral scent, used to add fragrance; it is one of the aroma substances EU cosmetics law requires to be named on the label because it can cause allergic reactions in some people.

Key facts

INCI name: Cinnamyl Alcohol
Evidence grade: moderate evidence
In our catalog: Found in 23 of the 2,607 products we've decoded
Reviewed: July 2, 2026

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Caffeine

Temporarily de-puffs and brightens the look of tired skin and under-eyes.

Good to know

Fragrance allergencaution

One of the fragrance compounds the EU requires to be declared, because a minority of people react to it.

What it does

moderate evidence

Benefits

Adds a sweet, balsamic, hyacinth-like floral scent note to a formula

Side effects

Can cause allergic contact dermatitis (redness, itch, rash) in fragrance-sensitised people; skin enzymes can activate it into a stronger sensitiser (a prohapten)