Cinnamon has antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties (1). These properties make it a wonderful ingredient to add to your daily skin care routine. There are several DIY cinnamon remedies to improve your skin. This article discusses the benefits of cinnamon, how to use it, and its side effects. Keep reading
Has Antimicrobial Properties: Cinnamon oil has antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties against some bacteria and fungi, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans(2 ). Staphylococcus aureus causes skin infections, such as abscesses (boils), furuncles, and cellulitis (3). Candida albicans cause skin infections, erythema, skin thickening, and hyperkeratosis (4). Promotes Wound Healing: Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, an antimicrobial compound active against against P.aeruginosa strains commonly found in skin wounds and infections. An animal study found that cinnamaldehyde inhibited the growth of P. aeruginosa in skin wounds and accelerated healing (5 ). Soothes Pain: Cinnamon bark essential oil extracted from Cinnamomum zeylanicum is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to soothe aching joints. It works as an anti-inflammatory agent. However, further research is required to determine its clinical efficacy (6). Reduces Acne: Topical cinnamon gel can soothe mild to moderate acne (7). It decreases the number of inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions and reduces other associated symptoms like redness and excess sebum production. Cinnamon contains eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, and coumarin, which can reduce acne blemishes. A study showed that using a herbal soap containing cinnamon oil reduced acne scars and pigmentation (8).
Prevents UV Damage: Cinnamon also contains vitamin C that protects the skin from UV damage and premature aging (8). Brightens The Skin: Cinnamaldehyde is a tyrosinase inhibitor (reduces melanin production) and can be used as a skin-whitening agent in cosmetics (9). Cinnamon also contains p-coumaric acid, a compound used as a skin-lightening ingredient in cosmetics (10). Both the agents may help reduce hyperpigmentation. Treats Infections: The Central Council For Research In Ayurvedic Sciences states that a mixture of cinnamon powder and honey can treat cuts, skin infections, and wounds (11), (12). Minimizes Wrinkles: Cinnamaldehyde may increase collagen production and effectively reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines (13).
Prevents Oxidative Damage: Cinnamon contains beta-carotene, vitamin B, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, coumarin, vitamin A, potassium, polyphenols, cinnamic acid, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, iron, and other nutrients (11). Vitamin A prevents skin damage caused by UV exposure and may even be useful in minimizing psoriasis, ichthyosis (scaly skin), and acne (14). Coumarin helps reduce inflammation, and polyphenols prevent oxidative damage (15), (16). Works As Larvicidal: Cinnamon essential oil extracted from Cinnamomum cassia is larvicidal and can repel mosquitoes (11). You can use it as a topical mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito bites. Boosts Collagen Production: Ceylon cinnamon extracts can stimulate collagen synthesis and prevent skin sagging and wrinkles (13).
Now that you know the advantages of using cinnamon for your skin, let’s learn how to use it to reap its benefits.
How To Use Cinnamon For Your Skin
You can use cinnamon oil, powder, and other extracts in homemade face masks and DIY remedies or use skin care products with cinnamon extract. Here are a few possible ways to use cinnamon for the skin:
Mix a drop of cinnamon essential oil with petroleum jelly, olive oil, or coconut oil and use it to moisturize dry lips. You can apply petroleum jelly and a pinch of ground cinnamon to plump your lips. Mix a pinch of cinnamon powder with salt, olive oil, almond oil, and honey and use it as a scrub to manage dry skin. Make a paste with a teaspoon of cinnamon and three tablespoons of honey and use it as a spot treatment to manage acne. It may also reduce redness and moisturize the skin. Mix a pinch of cinnamon, aloe vera gel, a pinch of turmeric, licorice powder, and apply it as a face mask to boost skin elasticity, firmness, and hydration.
Note: Do not apply cinnamon essential oil directly to your skin, as it may cause irritation and a burning sensation. Instead, dilute it with other carrier oils like olive, coconut, jojoba, argan, and castor oils. While you can apply cinnamon to your skin, there are some adverse effects you need to be aware of before using it.
Side Effects Of Using Cinnamon
Applying cinnamon to your skin is clearly beneficial. However, it may irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions like:
Redness Rashes Burning sensation Discoloration
Ingesting excess cinnamon can cause:
Tingling sensations Itching, Cough Breathlessness
Make sure you perform a patch test before using cinnamon for the skin. Is cinnamon good for oily skin? Yes, cinnamon is good for oily skin. Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties that can help treat breakouts and inflammation (17). It also helps control excess oil production. Can we leave cinnamon on the face overnight? Yes, we can leave cinnamon on the face overnight. Cinnamon possesses anti-fungal, antioxidant, and antibacterial qualities, which could help reduce acne. In addition, cinnamon reduces skin oiliness when left on the face overnight. It also promotes blood flow to the skin.
