Ingredient review
Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate
INCI: CIS-3-HEXENYL CIS-HEXENOATE
A natural green-scented ester that adds a fresh, leafy fragrance to products; generally safe and non-irritating at cosmetic levels.
In plain English
This ingredient is a natural ester (a type of molecule formed from an acid and an alcohol) that smells like fresh-cut grass or green leaves. It is used in tiny amounts to give skincare and beauty products a pleasant, natural green scent. It does not provide any skin benefit beyond fragrance.
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
- natural
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate 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 Cis-Hexenoate.
- 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
Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate is an ester compound found naturally in many plants, especially green leaves and fruits. It is often synthesized from natural sources for use in cosmetics and perfumery.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, it acts solely as a fragrance ingredient. It evaporates from the skin's surface, releasing a fresh, green aroma that enhances the sensory experience of the product.
Pros
Natural green scent
Provides a pleasant, fresh-cut grass aroma that many find uplifting and natural.
Low irritation potential
At typical use levels, it has a low risk of skin irritation for most people.
Cons and cautions
Allergen potential
As a fragrance ingredient, it can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, especially with prolonged use.
No skin benefit
It does not moisturize, protect, or improve skin health; its only role is scent.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys fresh, green-scented skincare
- Those looking for a natural fragrance alternative to synthetic perfumes
Use caution if
- Individuals with known fragrance allergies or sensitivities
- Those seeking fragrance-free products
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential skin sensitization in fragrance-allergic individuals, which is rare at low levels.
Research notes
Research on this specific ester is limited, but it is well-characterized as a safe fragrance material by industry panels like IFRA. No significant toxicity or irritation has been reported in standard safety assessments.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels (under 1%) in leave-on and rinse-off products.
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under general fragrance regulations.
- Common uses
- Fragranced skincare, Perfumes, Body lotions, Cleansers
- Environmental note
- When derived from natural sources, it is biodegradable and has a low environmental impact. Synthetic versions also break down readily.
Good to know
- This ester is often listed simply as 'fragrance' or 'parfum' on labels, so you may not see it by name.
- It is a key component in the 'green note' family of fragrances, mimicking the smell of crushed leaves.
Common questions
What is Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate in beauty products?
This ingredient is a natural ester (a type of molecule formed from an acid and an alcohol) that smells like fresh-cut grass or green leaves. It is used in tiny amounts to give skincare and beauty products a pleasant, natural green scent. It does not provide any skin benefit beyond fragrance.
What does Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, it acts solely as a fragrance ingredient. It evaporates from the skin's surface, releasing a fresh, green aroma that enhances the sensory experience of the product.
Is Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate safe for most people?
Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. The main concern is potential skin sensitization in fragrance-allergic individuals, which is rare at low levels.
Who should be careful with Cis-3-Hexenyl Cis-Hexenoate?
Individuals with known fragrance allergies or sensitivities Those seeking fragrance-free products
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.