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CINNAMYL ALCOHOL

Description

Cinnamyl alcohol is a naturally occurring organic compound found in essential oils of plants like cinnamon, hyacinth, and storax. This aromatic alcohol possesses a sweet, floral scent reminiscent of hyacinth and balsamic notes. In skincare formulations, cinnamyl alcohol serves multiple functions, primarily as a fragrance ingredient and fixative.

The compound exhibits antimicrobial properties, making it useful in preserving cosmetic products. It also demonstrates potential anti-inflammatory effects, which may help soothe irritated skin. Cinnamyl alcohol acts as a penetration enhancer, potentially improving the absorption of other active ingredients in skincare formulations.

Despite its benefits, cinnamyl alcohol is known to be a potential skin sensitizer and allergen for some individuals. It is one of the 26 fragrance ingredients required to be listed on product labels in the European Union due to its allergenic potential. Concentrations typically range from 0.01% to 0.1% in leave-on products and up to 0.5% in rinse-off formulations.

When formulating with cinnamyl alcohol, careful consideration of concentration levels and potential interactions with other ingredients is crucial to minimize the risk of adverse reactions while maximizing its beneficial properties.