Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract and pregnancy

Caution Advised

• Absorbed into the body
• Irritant

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract, or Ceylon cinnamon extract, is used in cosmetics for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, as well as for fragrance. It contains cinnamaldehyde and eugenol as primary bioactive compounds, along with other aromatic substances. During pregnancy, there are two main concerns with cinnamon extract in skincare. First, cinnamon is a known skin irritant and sensitizer, and pregnant women often experience increased skin sensitivity due to hormonal changes, making reactions more likely. Second, while culinary amounts of cinnamon are safe during pregnancy, concentrated extracts raise questions about systemic absorption of compounds like cinnamaldehyde. Some animal studies have suggested that very high doses of cinnamon oil (far exceeding cosmetic use) might affect uterine contractions, though this hasn't been demonstrated with topical cosmetic application. ACOG does not specifically address topical cinnamon extract, but many obstetricians and dermatologists recommend caution with strongly scented botanical extracts during pregnancy due to increased sensitivity and limited safety data. The European Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety notes the allergenic potential of cinnamaldehyde in cosmetics. While occasional use of products containing small amounts is unlikely to pose risks, products with high concentrations or used extensively on large areas of skin warrant more caution during pregnancy.

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract and breastfeeding

Safe to Use

• Irritant
• Infant exposure

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract in topical cosmetics poses minimal systemic concerns for breastfeeding mothers. The primary consideration is avoiding direct contact between products containing this ingredient and the infant, particularly around the breast and nipple area, as cinnamon compounds can be irritating to infant skin. Culinary amounts of cinnamon are considered safe during breastfeeding and do not affect breast milk. Topical application of cosmetics containing cinnamon extract provides even lower systemic exposure. The main concern is skin irritation and potential allergic reactions in the mother, which can be more bothersome when dealing with the physical demands of breastfeeding. Dermatologists generally consider cinnamon extract in cosmetics acceptable for breastfeeding mothers, with the caveat to avoid application on or near the breasts. If using products with this ingredient on the body, ensure the infant doesn't come into direct contact with treated areas until the product is fully absorbed or washed off.

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract and postpartum

Safe to Use

• Irritant

For postpartum women not breastfeeding, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract in cosmetics carries the same considerations as for the general population. The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties may be beneficial, particularly if dealing with postpartum acne or skin concerns. The main consideration is that postpartum hormonal fluctuations can make skin more reactive and sensitive. Cinnamon extract, being a known irritant and sensitizer, may cause more pronounced reactions during this time. Starting with products containing lower concentrations or doing a patch test is advisable. The ingredient is otherwise safe for this population when used appropriately.

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract and trying to conceive

Safe to Use

• Irritant

For women trying to conceive, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract in topical cosmetics is generally considered safe. There is no evidence linking topical use of cinnamon extract to fertility concerns. Culinary consumption of cinnamon is safe when trying to conceive, and topical application provides even lower systemic exposure. The primary consideration is skin sensitivity and irritation potential, which applies regardless of conception plans. Some women prefer to adopt pregnancy-safe routines while trying to conceive, but cinnamon extract in cosmetics doesn't fall into the category of ingredients that require this precaution. If you develop sensitivity or irritation, discontinue use, as skin barrier health is important for overall wellbeing.

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract and PCOS

Safe to Use

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract may actually be beneficial for women with PCOS when used topically. Ceylon cinnamon has been studied for its potential effects on insulin sensitivity when consumed orally, and some research suggests it may have anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit PCOS-related skin concerns like acne. The antimicrobial properties of cinnamon extract can help manage acne, which is common in PCOS due to elevated androgens. However, because PCOS often involves sensitive or reactive skin, the irritating properties of cinnamon extract should be considered. Women with PCOS should introduce products with this ingredient gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions. There is no evidence that topical cinnamon extract interferes with hormonal balance or PCOS management. The ingredient is considered safe for this population from a hormonal perspective, with the standard precautions about skin sensitivity applying. Those with particularly reactive skin may prefer gentler alternatives.

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract and general use

Safe to Use

• Common allergen
• Irritant

Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract is used in cosmetics for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and aromatic properties. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum) is considered less irritating than cassia cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia), though both can cause skin reactions in sensitive individuals. The primary concern with cinnamon extract in cosmetics is its potential to cause allergic contact dermatitis and skin irritation. The active compounds, particularly cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, are documented skin sensitizers. According to the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, cinnamaldehyde must be labeled when present above specific thresholds due to allergenic potential. Reactions can range from mild redness and tingling to more severe burning sensations and allergic dermatitis, especially with higher concentrations or prolonged contact. For most people, cinnamon extract in cosmetics is well-tolerated at the concentrations typically used. However, individuals with sensitive skin, a history of fragrance allergies, or known cinnamon sensitivity should avoid products containing this ingredient. The AAD recommends patch testing products with potential allergens before full application. Those with intact, non-sensitive skin can generally use products containing cinnamon extract without issue, though starting with lower concentrations is advisable.

Everything else flagged for the same profiles

• Flagged in pregnancy

Related ingredients

Ingredients suggested in place of Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Extract, each one with its own page here.

• Bisabolol
• Allantoin

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Where this came from

Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.

Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on 15 September 2026.