Ingredient review
Cis-3-Hexenyl Benzoate
INCI: CIS-3-HEXENYL BENZOATE
A synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a green, leafy scent but offers no skincare benefits and may cause sensitivity in some people.
In plain English
Cis-3-Hexenyl Benzoate is a man-made ingredient used to give skincare products a fresh, green, floral smell, like crushed leaves or grass. It doesn't moisturize, treat, or protect your skin—it's purely there for scent. While generally considered safe at low levels, it can be irritating for those with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.
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 Benzoate 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 Benzoate.
- 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 created by combining cis-3-hexenol (a natural leaf alcohol) with benzoic acid. It is used almost exclusively as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products.
How it works
It evaporates from the skin after application, releasing a pleasant green-floral aroma. It does not actively interact with skin cells or provide any functional skincare benefit beyond scent.
Pros
Pleasant natural scent
Provides a fresh, green, floral aroma that many find appealing and less synthetic than other fragrances.
Low irritation for most
At typical low concentrations, it is well-tolerated by the majority of skin types without causing redness or stinging.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
This ingredient adds only fragrance; it does not hydrate, soothe, or protect the skin in any way.
Potential allergen
As a fragrance ingredient, it can cause contact dermatitis or allergic reactions in people with fragrance sensitivities, especially with repeated use.
Best for
- People who enjoy lightly scented skincare and do not have fragrance sensitivities
- Those looking for a fresh, green scent profile
Use caution if
- Individuals with known fragrance allergies or very sensitive skin
- Anyone following a fragrance-free skincare routine
Usage tips
Safety summary
Generally recognized as safe at low concentrations used in cosmetics. However, it is a known potential allergen and should be avoided by those with fragrance sensitivities. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has not specifically reviewed this ester, but similar fragrance esters are considered safe when used within limits.
Research notes
Limited peer-reviewed studies specifically on cis-3-hexenyl benzoate. Most safety data comes from general fragrance ingredient assessments. The Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) has evaluated related compounds and found low acute toxicity and skin irritation at typical use levels.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically less than 1% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions. Subject to fragrance allergen labeling requirements in the EU.
- Common uses
- Fragranced skincare, Perfumes, Body lotions, Cleansers
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental persistence is low, but it is not biodegradable in all conditions. Sourcing is not plant-based despite the natural-sounding name.
Good to know
- Cis-3-Hexenyl Benzoate is often listed simply as 'fragrance' or 'parfum' on labels, so it may not appear by name.
- The green scent is reminiscent of freshly cut grass or green tea leaves.
Common questions
What is Cis-3-Hexenyl Benzoate in beauty products?
Cis-3-Hexenyl Benzoate is a man-made ingredient used to give skincare products a fresh, green, floral smell, like crushed leaves or grass. It doesn't moisturize, treat, or protect your skin—it's purely there for scent. While generally considered safe at low levels, it can be irritating for those with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.
What does Cis-3-Hexenyl Benzoate do in a beauty product?
It evaporates from the skin after application, releasing a pleasant green-floral aroma. It does not actively interact with skin cells or provide any functional skincare benefit beyond scent.
Is Cis-3-Hexenyl Benzoate safe for most people?
Generally recognized as safe at low concentrations used in cosmetics. However, it is a known potential allergen and should be avoided by those with fragrance sensitivities. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has not specifically reviewed this ester, but similar fragrance esters are considered safe when used within limits.
Who should be careful with Cis-3-Hexenyl Benzoate?
Individuals with known fragrance allergies or very sensitive skin Anyone following a fragrance-free skincare routine
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.