Cinnamon bark extract is a botanical ingredient containing cinnamaldehyde and other phenolic compounds valued for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and mild circulation-stimulating properties. At low concentrations (~0.05%) it is used in skincare for these benefits while limiting irritation potential.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Contact irritation (stinging, redness, burning) | Common | Cinnamaldehyde is a known irritant; even low concentrations may cause transient stinging on sensitive or compromised skin. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Uncommon | Cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid are recognized contact allergens and components of fragrance allergen testing panels. |
| Contact urticaria (immediate wheal/flare) | Rare | Non-immunologic urticarial reactions have been documented with cinnamic aldehyde exposure. |
| Photosensitivity or perioral/mucosal reactions | Very rare | Occasionally reported, more often associated with higher-concentration or oral/dental exposures than low topical levels. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.