2-Hydroxymethylbenzoic acid gamma lactone (CAS 87-41-2) — Sweet Base Note Fragrance Ingredient
2-Hydroxymethylbenzoic acid gamma lactone
CAS 87-41-2
What Is 2-Hydroxymethylbenzoic acid gamma lactone?
2-Hydroxymethylbenzoic acid gamma lactone is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in perfumes and personal care products. It contributes to complex scent profiles, often found in fine fragrances and body care formulations. This lactone is valued for its ability to add depth and subtle sweetness to fragrance compositions, making it a versatile tool for perfumers seeking nuanced olfactory effects.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does 2-Hydroxymethylbenzoic acid gamma lactone Smell Like?
2-Hydroxymethylbenzoic acid gamma lactone presents a delicate balance of sweet and slightly woody notes, with a subtle lactonic creaminess. Its aroma evolves from a soft, powdery opening to a warm, slightly musky dry-down. The scent profile is reminiscent of sun-warmed skin with a whisper of vanilla-like sweetness, making it excellent for creating intimate, skin-scent effects in fragrances.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used as a subtle modifier to enhance the skin-like quality of the main molecule, creating a more rounded and approachable scent profile.
Employed in the base to contribute to the perfume’s signature ‘your skin but better’ effect, adding warmth and subtle sweetness.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
2-Hydroxymethylbenzoic acid gamma lactone belongs to the class of benzofuranones, characterized by a fused benzene and lactone ring system. It is produced synthetically through intramolecular esterification of hydroxymethylbenzoic acid derivatives. The gamma-lactone structure contributes to its stability and subtle odor characteristics, with the hydroxyl group providing potential for further chemical modifications.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | Data not available |
| Solubility | Soluble in alcohol, slightly soluble in water |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 0.5-2% | Up to 5% | Used as a subtle modifier |
| Body Care | 0.1-1% | Up to 3% | Adds skin-scent effect |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use in trace amounts to enhance skin-scent effects without dominating the composition.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Offers similar sweet, powdery notes but with more pronounced vanilla-like character for stronger effects.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA standards.
RIFM Assessment
No specific RIFM assessment found for this compound.
Sustainability
As a synthetic material, 2-Hydroxymethylbenzoic acid gamma lactone has consistent quality and avoids natural resource depletion. Production should follow green chemistry principles to minimize environmental impact. Being used in small quantities reduces its overall ecological footprint in fragrance formulations.
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References
- Bauer, K. et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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