Fragrance
METHOXYCINNAMAL
Safety score · 0–100
Moderate
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Methoxycinnamal — a cinnamic aldehyde relative. Cinnamaldehydes are known sensitisers, so this belongs in the orange band.
Methoxycinnamal is a methoxy-substituted cinnamaldehyde derivative. Cinnamaldehyde and closely related aldehydes (including amyl, hexyl and methoxycinnamaldehyde derivatives) are on the EU Annex III list of fragrance allergens requiring declaration above threshold, and cinnamaldehyde itself is one of the classic cosmetic contact allergens identified by the Mayo and North American Contact Dermatitis Groups. Listed in EU CosIng under fragrance/skin-conditioning; no positive SCCS opinion for leave-on at elevated levels. Evidence moderate. Previous database score of 85 was too generous for a cinnamaldehyde-class ingredient.
Function
Skin benefits
- Aromatic character
- Some in-vitro antioxidant action
Known concerns
- Cinnamaldehyde-class sensitiser
- EU fragrance-allergen family
- Sensitisation risk in leave-on
- Needs IFRA-style restriction
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related fragrances
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.