Isopropyl cinnamate (CAS 7780-06-05) — Balsamic Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient

Balsamic · Woody

Isopropyl cinnamate

CAS 7780-06-05

Origin
synthetic
Note
Middle
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Isopropyl cinnamate?

Isopropyl cinnamate is a synthetic fragrance ingredient commonly found in perfumes and personal care products. It contributes a warm, balsamic character reminiscent of cinnamon and vanilla. This ester is valued for its ability to add depth and longevity to fragrance compositions, often appearing in oriental and woody accords.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
IFRA approved for use
Potential skin sensitizer
CAS
7780-06-05
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Balsamic · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Isopropyl cinnamate Smell Like?

Isopropyl cinnamate unfolds with an initial burst of warm cinnamon spice that quickly mellows into a rich, balsamic heart. The dry-down reveals a velvety vanilla-like sweetness with subtle woody undertones. Its character evolves like spiced honey dripping over aged oak, maintaining excellent tenacity while avoiding cloying heaviness. The ester’s balanced profile makes it particularly useful for bridging citrus top notes with deeper base accords.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Opium(Yves Saint Laurent, 1977)

Used as a cinnamon-vanilla bridge in the oriental accord, adding warmth without the sharpness of true cinnamon oil.

Cinnabar(Estée Lauder, 1978)

Provides the signature balsamic-spicy character that distinguishes this classic from simpler spice fragrances.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Isopropyl cinnamate is an ester formed by the condensation of cinnamic acid with isopropanol. As a synthetic material, it’s typically produced via acid-catalyzed esterification. The molecule features a conjugated double bond system that contributes to its warm olfactory character and good stability in formulations.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Boiling Point~250 °C (estimated)
Density~1.0 g/cm³ (estimated)

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Middle
Volatility
Moderate (2-4 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance1-3%Up to 5%Oriental bases modifier
Soap0.5-1%Up to 2%Adds warmth to spicy accords

Classic Accords

+ Vanillin + Patchouli = Oriental + Bergamot + Clove = Spice

Tip: Use to soften harsh spice notes while maintaining warmth in oriental compositions.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Cinnamyl acetate CAS 103-54-8

Offers similar spicy character with brighter top notes and less balsamic depth.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions currently apply (as of Amendment 49).

GHS Classification

H315 Skin irritation

RIFM Assessment

RIFM evaluation complete – safe for current use levels in fragrance.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, isopropyl cinnamate avoids agricultural supply chain issues. Production typically uses petrochemical feedstocks, though bio-based routes from cinnamic acid are being explored.

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References

  1. Bauer et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.

Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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