Cinnamon Oil (Leaf)

Cinnamon Leaf Oil — Technical & Clean Standards Overview

Cinnamon Leaf Oil is a natural essential oil obtained primarily from the leaves of Cinnamomum zeylanicum or Cinnamomum verum through steam distillation. It is composed predominantly of eugenol (70–85%), with minor constituents including beta-caryophyllene, cinnamyl acetate, and linalool. Its production relies on renewable plant sources, and it is considered a natural, botanical ingredient suitable for inclusion in clean and natural-leaning cosmetic formulations.

In cosmetic and personal care formulations, Cinnamon Leaf Oil functions as a fragrance, antimicrobial agent, and skin-conditioning ingredient. Its high eugenol content provides a characteristic warm, spicy aroma and contributes to antimicrobial activity, which can support preservation or synergize with other functional actives in formulations. When used appropriately, it adds sensory depth to products such as lotions, creams, body oils, balms, and hair care products.

From a Clean Standards and safety profile perspective, Cinnamon Leaf Oil is generally recognized as safe in cosmetic formulations when used at recommended concentrations. It is non-petroleum-derived and biodegradable. However, due to its high eugenol content, it is considered a potential sensitizer at higher concentrations. Safety evaluations support its use in both rinse-off and leave-on products, provided usage levels comply with IFRA (International Fragrance Association) and other regulatory guidelines. When responsibly sourced, Cinnamon Leaf Oil aligns with clean beauty principles, ingredient transparency initiatives, and natural cosmetic expectations.

Ingredient Identification

• INCI Name: Cinnamomum Leaf Oil

• CAS Number: 8007-80-5

Physical & Technical Properties

• Appearance: Clear to pale yellow to amber liquid

• Odor: Warm, spicy, clove-like aroma

• Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in oils, alcohols, and organic solvents

• Functional Role: Fragrance, antimicrobial, and skin-conditioning agent

Typical Usage Levels (Skincare & Haircare)

• Lotions & Creams: 0.05–0.2% (fragrance and skin-conditioning)

• Balms & Body Oils: 0.1–0.5% (sensory enhancement, antimicrobial support)

• Haircare Products: 0.05–0.2% (fragrance and scalp-conditioning)

• Higher concentrations may be restricted due to sensitization potential; compliance with IFRA limits is recommended.

Formulation Compatibility & Common Combinations

Cinnamon Leaf Oil is commonly formulated with:

• Carrier oils such as jojoba, sweet almond, or fractionated coconut oil

• Other essential oils for fragrance layering (e.g., clove, nutmeg, orange)

• Botanical extracts and functional actives to enhance antimicrobial or sensory properties

• Emulsifier systems where oil-soluble components are incorporated into the oil phase

In formulations, Cinnamon Leaf Oil is typically added at lower temperatures (<40 °C) during the cooling phase to preserve volatile components and maintain fragrance integrity.

Regulatory & Safety Notes

• Regulatory Status: Generally recognized for cosmetic use; compliance with IFRA guidelines required

• California Proposition 65: Contains eugenol, which may be restricted in some applications

• EWG Context: Rated 1–3 depending on concentration (low hazard when used appropriately)

• Irritation & Sensitization: Potential skin sensitizer at high concentrations; patch testing recommended

• Clean Beauty Compatibility: Fully compatible when responsibly sourced; aligns with natural and botanical cosmetic standards