Cinnamic Acid
What Cinnamic Acid is & what it does
Cinnamic Acid is an aromatic organic acid found naturally in cinnamon and balsams and serves as the structural parent of the cinnamate family of UV filters. In cosmetics it is generally used as a fragrance component and as a building block in the synthesis of related ingredients rather than as a standalone active. On its own at the levels used here it is not a registered UV filter. It can carry a warm, balsamic odor that contributes to a product's scent.
What is Cinnamic Acid?
Cinnamic Acid is an aromatic organic acid found in cinnamon and balsams and is the structural parent of the cinnamate UV-filter family. In cosmetics it is commonly used as a fragrance component and a chemical building block.
Does Cinnamic Acid work as a sunscreen?
On its own at the levels used here it is not a registered UV filter, though its derivatives such as methoxycinnamates are common UVB sunscreen actives. It does not provide meaningful sun protection by itself.
Is Cinnamic Acid safe?
It is generally considered safe at the small amounts used in cosmetics, and no specific concern is flagged here. Because it is fragrant, sensitive individuals may prefer to patch test scented products.
Sunscreens with Cinnamic Acid
We rate 4 sunscreens that contain it:
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Dr. DERM Sun Care Cream SPF 50
92/100
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Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-action Ultra Face Cream With SPF 30
66/100
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Lancôme Rénergie Multi-Lift Ultra Spf 20
65/100
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Lancôme Rénergie Lift Multi-Action Ultra Moisturizer Spf 30
64/100