4-Isopropylcyclohexanol (CAS 4621-04-09) — Woody Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient
4-Isopropylcyclohexanol
CAS 4621-04-09
What Is 4-Isopropylcyclohexanol?
4-Isopropylcyclohexanol is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used to add woody, earthy notes to perfumes and personal care products. You’ll encounter it in aftershaves, deodorants, and some unisex fragrances. This molecule matters because it helps create a clean, masculine-leaning scent profile that’s stable in formulations and blends well with citrus and spice notes.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does 4-Isopropylcyclohexanol Smell Like?
A dry, refined woodiness with subtle camphoraceous undertones. The scent evolves from an initial sharp pine-like freshness to a smoother, slightly sweet woody base. Imagine the after-rain scent of sun-warmed cedar planks mixed with a whisper of mentholated eucalyptus. The dry-down reveals a persistent clean muskiness that works particularly well in fougère accords.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used here to amplify the woody-ambery base, adding a clean masculine edge that contrasts with the bergamot top notes.
Contributes to the sophisticated woody-amber backbone that makes this fragrance so versatile for day-to-night wear.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
4-Isopropylcyclohexanol is a secondary alcohol with a cyclohexane backbone. Industrially produced via hydrogenation of corresponding ketones or through Grignard reactions. The isopropyl group adds steric hindrance that affects volatility and odor characteristics. The equatorial conformation is more stable and dominates in commercial samples, though some axial conformer may contribute to the fresh top notes.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Boiling Point | 210-215 °C |
|---|---|
| Density | 0.91 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 93 °C |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-5% | Up to 10% | Woody base note enhancer |
| Personal Care | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Provides masculine freshness |
Classic Accords
Tip: Use with citrus top notes to prevent the drydown from becoming too flat.
Alternatives & Comparisons
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
Not currently restricted by IFRA. Listed on IFRA Transparency List.
RIFM Assessment
RIFM safety assessment pending. No major concerns expected based on structural analogs.
Sustainability
Synthesized from petrochemical feedstocks. The production process has moderate energy requirements but no known significant environmental hazards. Being a single molecule, it’s more consistent and requires less land/resources than natural woody alternatives like sandalwood.
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References
- PubChem Compound Summary for 4-Isopropylcyclohexanol PubChem CID: N/A
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
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