What it is
Thymol trimethoxycinnamate is an ester that joins thymol, a compound originally associated with thyme, to a trimethoxy-substituted cinnamate. The cinnamate portion contributes light-absorbing and antioxidant-type character, and in formulas the ingredient is used to support conditioning and oxidative stability. It is seen mainly in Korean sun-care products as a supporting ingredient rather than as a registered UV filter.
Safety & warnings
This ingredient is used at low levels as a formula additive. Cinnamate-type structures can in rare cases be associated with sensitivity in highly reactive individuals, but thymol trimethoxycinnamate is not among the standard listed fragrance allergens and is not an oil linked to clogging pores. People with known reactivity to fragrance materials may wish to patch test.
Origin & sourcing
Synthetic ester, though the thymol and cinnamic acid building blocks have natural counterparts.
Questions everyone asks
Is thymol trimethoxycinnamate a UV filter?
No. Although its cinnamate group absorbs some light, it is used as a supporting conditioning and stabilizing additive, not as a registered sunscreen active.
What is it made from?
It is an ester combining a thymol unit with a trimethoxycinnamate group; both building blocks have natural counterparts but the finished ester is synthesized.