Ingredient review
Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate
INCI: CIS-6-NONENYL ACETATE
A synthetic scent ingredient that adds a fresh, green note to products but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate is a man-made chemical that smells like fresh cucumber or melon. It is added to skincare and beauty products purely for fragrance, not to improve your skin. Because it is used in tiny amounts, it is generally considered safe, but like any fragrance ingredient, it can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
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-6-Nonenyl Acetate 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-6-Nonenyl Acetate.
- 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-6-Nonenyl Acetate is a synthetic ester compound that belongs to the class of fragrance ingredients. It is created in a lab to mimic the natural green, watery scent of cucumber or fresh-cut melon.
How it works
In a cosmetic product, Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate acts solely as a fragrance component. It evaporates from the skin after application, releasing its scent. It does not moisturize, exfoliate, or otherwise affect the skin's structure or function.
Pros
Pleasant fresh scent
Adds a natural-smelling green note that many people find appealing and refreshing.
Low concentration needed
Only a tiny amount is required to achieve the desired fragrance, minimizing overall exposure.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
This ingredient does not hydrate, soothe, or protect the skin; it is purely for scent.
Potential allergen
As a fragrance ingredient, it can cause contact dermatitis or irritation in those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Best for
- People who enjoy fresh, green-scented products
- Those without fragrance sensitivities
Use caution if
- Individuals with known fragrance allergies or very sensitive skin
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical low concentrations. However, like all fragrance ingredients, it has the potential to cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
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 esters.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low levels (less than 1%) due to its strong scent
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics in the EU and US, subject to general safety requirements for fragrance allergens.
- Common uses
- Fragranced skincare, Body lotions, Perfumes, Hair products
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, its environmental impact depends on manufacturing practices and biodegradability; limited data is publicly available.
Good to know
- Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate is often used alongside other green notes like hexenol or cucumber extract.
- It is not a natural ingredient, but it is designed to replicate a natural scent.
Common questions
What is Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate in beauty products?
Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate is a man-made chemical that smells like fresh cucumber or melon. It is added to skincare and beauty products purely for fragrance, not to improve your skin. Because it is used in tiny amounts, it is generally considered safe, but like any fragrance ingredient, it can cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
What does Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate do in a beauty product?
In a cosmetic product, Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate acts solely as a fragrance component. It evaporates from the skin after application, releasing its scent. It does not moisturize, exfoliate, or otherwise affect the skin's structure or function.
Is Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate safe for most people?
Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate is considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical low concentrations. However, like all fragrance ingredients, it has the potential to cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
Who should be careful with Cis-6-Nonenyl Acetate?
Individuals with known fragrance allergies or very sensitive skin
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.