Ingredient Directory
Medium ConcernVegan Evaluator Flag

Benzyl Cinnamate

benzyl (E)-3-phenylprop-2-enoate; benzyl trans-cinnamate

Safety Flags
Allergen: Yes - EU Annex III fragrance allergen
Safety Notes

EU Annex III fragrance allergen; naturally occurring in balsam of Peru, balsam of Tolu, and styrax balsam; moderate sensitization potential; cross-reacts with other cinnamic acid derivatives including cinnamaldehyde and cinnamyl alcohol

Function & Common Use

Function

Fragrance / Perfuming / Aroma Chemical / Fixative

Category

Fragrance Materials

Common In

Oriental, balsamic and floral perfumes; body care; found naturally in balsam of Peru and styrax

Origin

Natural/Synthetic

Concentration Limits

India (CDSCO)

Declaration required above 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off

EU Cosmetics Reg.

Declaration threshold: 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off (EU Reg 2023/1545)

US FDA (21 CFR)

None (FEMA GRAS); IFRA-guided

Korea (MFDS)

None specific

Format restriction: EU mandatory declaration when above threshold; IFRA 49th Amendment limits by category

Baby restriction: No

Pregnancy: No

IFRA: Yes - IFRA 49th Amendment; Category 4 (body leave-on): 0.7%; Category 5A (face leave-on): 0.4%; Category 1 (fine fragrance): 3.8%; rinse-off: higher limits

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Benzyl Cinnamate safe to use in skincare?

Benzyl Cinnamate has a Medium concern rating. EU Annex III fragrance allergen; naturally occurring in balsam of Peru, balsam of Tolu, and styrax balsam; moderate sensitization potential; cross-reacts with other cinnamic acid derivatives including cinnamaldehyde and cinnamyl alcohol

Is Benzyl Cinnamate allowed in India?

Benzyl Cinnamate is currently classified as "Permitted" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is Declaration required above 0.001% leave-on / 0.01% rinse-off.

What is Benzyl Cinnamate used for in cosmetics?

Benzyl Cinnamate functions as: Fragrance / Perfuming / Aroma Chemical / Fixative. It is commonly found in: Oriental, balsamic and floral perfumes; body care; found naturally in balsam of Peru and styrax.

Can Benzyl Cinnamate cause an allergic reaction?

Yes. Benzyl Cinnamate has an allergen flag (Yes - EU Annex III fragrance allergen). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.

Is Benzyl Cinnamate safe for babies?

Benzyl Cinnamate has baby/child restrictions: No. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.

TCS Assessment
Medium Concern
Data Confidence
High
Based on peer-reviewed safety data, regulatory status, and expert review by The Clean Sheet panel.

Regulatory Status

India (CDSCO)
Permitted
EU
Permitted
US FDA
FEMA GRAS
Korea (MFDS)
Permitted
Australia (TGA)
Permitted
Canada (NHPID)
Permitted

EU Annex: Annex III (fragrance allergen - declaration required)

Identifiers

CAS103-41-3
EC203-109-3

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