Dihydro farnesal (CAS 32480-08-03) — Floral Top to middle Note Fragrance Ingredient

Floral · Green

Dihydro farnesal

CAS 32480-08-03

Origin
synthetic
Note
Top to middle
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Dihydro farnesal?

Dihydro farnesal is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in perfumes and personal care products. It contributes a fresh, floral-green character reminiscent of lily-of-the-valley and citrus peel. This molecule matters because it helps create natural-smelling floral bouquets without relying on plant extracts, making fragrances more sustainable and consistent.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
No major restrictions
Limited safety data available
CAS
32480-08-03
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Floral · Green
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Dihydro farnesal Smell Like?

Dihydro farnesal opens with a crisp green freshness like crushed lily leaves, quickly revealing a delicate floralcy akin to muguet blossoms washed in morning dew. As it evolves, a subtle citrus undertone emerges – think of mandarin zest rubbed between fingers. The dry-down retains a clean, soapy floral character with surprising tenacity for an aldehyde, leaving a polished trail reminiscent of expensive floral soaps.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Dihydro farnesal belongs to the aldehyde class, specifically a saturated analog of farnesal. As a synthetic material, it’s produced through controlled hydrogenation of farnesal or via specialized aldehyde synthesis routes. The molecule lacks chiral centers, ensuring consistent olfactory properties across batches. Its structure combines floral-aldehyde characteristics with enhanced stability compared to its unsaturated counterpart.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Top to middle
Volatility
Moderate (2-4 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.5-2%Up to 5%Floral freshnes booster
Functional Fragrance0.1-0.5%Up to 1%Soapy-clean modifier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use to add diffusion and lift to white floral compositions without excessive sweetness.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Farnesal CAS 19317-11-4

More intense but less stable unsaturated version with stronger green character.

2
Lilial CAS 80-54-6

Classic muguet aldehyde with similar floralcy but different regulatory status.

Layer 3

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 formal RIFM assessment published as of 2023.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, dihydro farnesal offers consistent quality without plant harvesting impacts. Production typically uses petrochemical precursors, though some manufacturers are exploring bio-based routes. Its efficiency in formulations (requiring lower doses than some naturals) contributes to reduced environmental load in wastewater.

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References

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

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