Ingredient review
Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate
INCI: CIS-3-HEXENYL ANTHRANILATE
A synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a pleasant scent but offers no skincare benefits; generally safe at low concentrations.
In plain English
Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate is a man-made chemical used to make products smell nice—often described as a sweet, floral, or fruity scent. It doesn't moisturize, treat, or protect your skin; it's purely there for fragrance. While it's considered safe in the tiny amounts used in cosmetics, some people with very sensitive skin may prefer to avoid added fragrances altogether.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic ester compound derived from anthranilic acid and 3-hexenol, used exclusively as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products.
How it works
It works by evaporating from the skin or hair after application, releasing a pleasant scent. It has no active role in improving skin health, texture, or appearance.
Pros
Pleasant scent
Adds a sweet, floral, or fruity aroma that can make your skincare routine more enjoyable.
Low irritation risk for most
At the low levels used in cosmetics, it rarely causes problems for people without fragrance sensitivities.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
This ingredient does nothing for your skin's health—it's purely for scent, so it adds no value to your routine.
Potential allergen
Like many fragrance ingredients, it can trigger allergic reactions or irritation in sensitive individuals, especially with repeated use.
Best for
- People who enjoy scented skincare and have no history of fragrance allergies
- Those looking for a pleasant sensory experience in their routine
Use caution if
- Individuals with sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin
- Anyone with a known fragrance allergy or contact dermatitis
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical low concentrations. However, like all fragrance ingredients, it can cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) sets usage limits to minimize risk.
Research notes
Research on this specific ingredient is limited, but it is generally recognized as safe by fragrance industry panels. Most safety data comes from broader studies on fragrance allergens and skin sensitization.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels, often below 1% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics by the FDA and EU CosIng database, with no specific restrictions beyond general fragrance safety guidelines.
- Common uses
- Fragranced skincare, Perfumes, Body lotions, Hair products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental impact depends on manufacturing practices and biodegradability; limited data is available.
Good to know
- Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate is often listed simply as 'fragrance' or 'parfum' on labels, so it may not appear by name.
- It is one of many fragrance allergens that must be listed separately on products sold in the EU if present above certain levels.
Common questions
What is Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate in beauty products?
Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate is a man-made chemical used to make products smell nice—often described as a sweet, floral, or fruity scent. It doesn't moisturize, treat, or protect your skin; it's purely there for fragrance. While it's considered safe in the tiny amounts used in cosmetics, some people with very sensitive skin may prefer to avoid added fragrances altogether.
What does Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate do in a beauty product?
It works by evaporating from the skin or hair after application, releasing a pleasant scent. It has no active role in improving skin health, texture, or appearance.
Is Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate safe for most people?
Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical low concentrations. However, like all fragrance ingredients, it can cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) sets usage limits to minimize risk.
Who should be careful with Cis-3-Hexenyl Anthranilate?
Individuals with sensitive, reactive, or eczema-prone skin Anyone with a known fragrance allergy or contact dermatitis
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.