9.0
ISS Score
A — Good — low hazard
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
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Fragrance ingredient · Flavoring agent · Aromatic compound
Methylcinnamic Aldehyde
Also known as: 3-Phenyl-2-propenal, Cinnamaldehyde, methyl-, Methyl 3-phenylprop-2-enal
Molecular Formula
C10H10O
Molecular Weight
146.19 g/mol
Category
Fragrance
Bottom Line: Methylcinnamic Aldehyde is generally considered safe in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivities.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in low concentrations
- not applied to broken skin
- not used by individuals with known allergies to similar compounds
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- using in combination with other fragrances
- applying to areas with high absorption
✕ Avoid If:
- you are pregnant or nursing
- you have a history of fragrance allergies
- you experience irritation upon use
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C10H10O |
| Molecular Weight | 146.19 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | 302.0°C |
| Solubility | miscible (in ethanol) |
| Log P | 2.2 |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Perfumes, lotions, shampoos. Generally safe in cosmetics when used as directed.
Food
Flavoring agents, confectionery. Used in food at regulated levels; check for allergies.
Pharmaceutical
Topical creams, ointments. Use cautiously in pharmaceuticals; potential for irritation.
Supplement
Flavored supplements. Generally safe in supplements; monitor for reactions.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Methylcinnamic Aldehyde is generally well tolerated on skin, but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Methylcinnamic Aldehyde can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and should be avoided.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation may cause respiratory irritation; use in well-ventilated areas to minimize exposure.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation; avoid direct exposure to prevent harm.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher risk of irritation and adverse reactions.
- pregnant — Limited safety data; caution advised.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal risk.
- breastfeeding — Generally safe but consult healthcare provider.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated, but individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; caution is advised. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity in young children; potential for adverse reactions. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited data on excretion in breast milk; use with caution. |
| sensitive_skin | Moderate | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Methylcinnamic Aldehyde is evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food, with varying results based on concentration and use.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2012) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No significant irritation observed | SCCS Opinion (2015) |
| Sensitization | low sensitization potential | Human sensitization study | Low concern for sensitization | EFSA Opinion (2014) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Methylcinnamic Aldehyde is evaluated for safety in cosmetics and food, with varying results based on concentration and use.
- Commonly used as a fragrance in various products.
- Potential for skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Regulatory assessments indicate moderate safety.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Methylcinnamic Aldehyde
Year: 2012
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.1%.
View Full Report →
SCCS
Report: Opinion on Methylcinnamic Aldehyde
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in cosmetics with restrictions.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on Methylcinnamic Aldehyde
Year: 2014
Conclusion: Acceptable daily intake established; safe in food applications.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Methylcinnamic Aldehyde is permitted in the US and Canada, with restrictions in the EU. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
US
FDAPERMITTED
None
EU
European CommissionRESTRICTED
Limited use in cosmetics
UK
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
CA
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
It is primarily used as a fragrance in cosmetics and food products.
It may cause irritation in sensitive individuals; patch testing is recommended.
Yes, it is restricted in cosmetics in the EU but permitted in other regions.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-13T06:42:26.542629Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.