Benzene, 1,2,4-trimethyl- (CAS 95-63-6) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Woody · Balsamic

Benzene, 1,2,4-trimethyl-

CAS 95-63-6

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Professional use
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Benzene, 1,2,4-trimethyl-?

Benzene, 1,2,4-trimethyl- is a synthetic aromatic compound primarily used in industrial applications. It’s not commonly encountered in consumer products but may be present in trace amounts in some fragrances. While not a mainstream fragrance ingredient, it’s important for perfumers to understand its properties due to its structural similarity to other aromatic molecules used in perfumery.

Safety Profile

PROFESSIONAL USE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
⚠ Potential health concerns with prolonged exposure
✗ Not recommended for consumer products
CAS
95-63-6
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Woody · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Benzene, 1,2,4-trimethyl- Smell Like?

This synthetic aromatic compound presents a sharp, dry, and somewhat harsh chemical character. The odor profile leans heavily towards the industrial spectrum, with pronounced hydrocarbon notes reminiscent of petroleum derivatives. The top note is intensely chemical, evolving into a flat, somewhat metallic middle phase before settling into a persistent, slightly sweet but overwhelmingly synthetic dry-down. Its olfactory profile lacks the complexity and nuance found in more refined aromatic ingredients.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene is a trisubstituted benzene derivative belonging to the aromatic hydrocarbon class. It’s produced industrially through catalytic reforming of petroleum fractions or by alkylation of toluene with methanol. The molecule features three methyl groups in the 1, 2, and 4 positions around the benzene ring, creating a symmetrical substitution pattern that influences its physical and chemical properties. While not naturally occurring, it may be found as a trace component in some essential oils through thermal decomposition of natural aromatic compounds.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Low
Blending
Poor
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
IndustrialTraceNot recommendedLimited fragrance applications

Classic Accords

Tip: Not recommended for use in fine fragrances due to safety concerns and poor olfactory properties.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Para-Cymene CAS 99-87-6

A safer aromatic alternative with similar structural properties but more acceptable odor profile for perfumery applications.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

Not specifically restricted by IFRA but generally avoided in fragrance formulations due to safety concerns.

GHS Classification

H304 May be fatal if swallowed and enters airways H315 Causes skin irritation H336 May cause drowsiness or dizziness

RIFM Assessment

Not evaluated by RIFM for fragrance use due to limited applications in perfumery.

Sustainability

As a petrochemical derivative, 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene has significant environmental concerns regarding its production and disposal. Its synthetic nature and petroleum-based origin make it less sustainable compared to natural aromatic alternatives. The compound’s persistence in the environment and potential bioaccumulation further limit its appeal in green chemistry applications.

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References

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

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