Ingredient review
Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate
INCI: CIS-3-HEXENYL TIGLATE
A natural fragrance component that provides a fresh green scent; generally safe but may cause sensitivity in those allergic to fragrance ingredients.
In plain English
Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate is a natural chemical found in plants like tea and mint. It's used in tiny amounts to give skincare and beauty products a fresh, leafy, green smell—like the scent of cut grass or crushed leaves. It doesn't do anything for your skin's health; its only job is to make the product smell nice.
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 Tiglate 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 Tiglate.
- 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 Tiglate is an ester compound naturally present in several plants, including green tea and peppermint. It belongs to a family of fragrance ingredients that mimic the scent of fresh greenery. In cosmetics, it is synthesized or extracted and added to create a natural, appealing aroma.
How it works
This ingredient works solely as a fragrance agent. It evaporates from the product's surface, releasing molecules that interact with olfactory receptors in your nose, creating the perception of a fresh, green scent. It has no known functional benefits for the skin itself.
Pros
Natural fresh scent
Delivers a pleasant, leafy green aroma that many find uplifting and natural, improving the overall user experience.
Low irritation potential
At typical low concentrations, it rarely causes irritation for most people, making it a relatively gentle fragrance choice.
Cons and cautions
Fragrance allergen risk
Like many fragrance ingredients, it can trigger allergic reactions or contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals, especially with repeated use.
No skincare benefit
It serves only as a scent additive and does not moisturize, protect, or improve skin health in any way.
Best for
- Anyone who enjoys fresh, green-scented products
- Those without known fragrance allergies
Use caution if
- Individuals with a known allergy or sensitivity to fragrance ingredients
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at the low concentrations typically employed. The main risk is potential allergic contact dermatitis in fragrance-sensitive individuals, which is uncommon but possible.
Research notes
Research on this specific compound is limited, but it is well-established as a safe fragrance ingredient. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) has set usage standards to minimize sensitization risk.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Very low (often less than 0.1%)
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics by major regulatory bodies including the EU Cosmetics Regulation and the US FDA, subject to labeling requirements for known allergens.
- Common uses
- Fragranced skincare, Perfumes, Body lotions, Cleansers
- Environmental note
- When derived from natural sources, it is biodegradable. Synthetic versions are also produced with minimal environmental impact.
Good to know
- Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate is often listed simply as 'fragrance' or 'parfum' on labels, so you may not see it by name.
- It is considered a 'green note' in perfumery and is used to create realistic leafy or grassy accords.
Common questions
What is Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate in beauty products?
Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate is a natural chemical found in plants like tea and mint. It's used in tiny amounts to give skincare and beauty products a fresh, leafy, green smell—like the scent of cut grass or crushed leaves. It doesn't do anything for your skin's health; its only job is to make the product smell nice.
What does Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate do in a beauty product?
This ingredient works solely as a fragrance agent. It evaporates from the product's surface, releasing molecules that interact with olfactory receptors in your nose, creating the perception of a fresh, green scent. It has no known functional benefits for the skin itself.
Is Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate safe for most people?
Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at the low concentrations typically employed. The main risk is potential allergic contact dermatitis in fragrance-sensitive individuals, which is uncommon but possible.
Who should be careful with Cis-3-Hexenyl Tiglate?
Individuals with a known allergy or sensitivity to fragrance ingredients
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.