Galaxolide (CAS 1222-05-05) — Musky Top Note Fragrance Ingredient
Galaxolide
CAS 1222-05-05
What Is Galaxolide?
Galaxolide is a synthetic musk widely used in modern perfumery. You’ll encounter it in laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and long-lasting perfumes. This ingredient matters because it provides a clean, white musk backbone that enhances floral compositions and adds diffusion to fragrances without being overpowering.
Safety Profile
USE WITH AWARENESS
What Does Galaxolide Smell Like?
Galaxolide presents a soft, powdery musk with crystalline freshness – imagine freshly laundered linen drying under alpine sunlight. Its diffusive character blooms with a subtle metallic sheen, like chrome reflecting morning light, before settling into a skin-like warmth. The drydown exhibits remarkable tenacity, leaving a whisper of clean sophistication that can persist for days on fabric.
Scent Profile
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Galaxolide provides the radiant musk foundation that supports the floral bouquet, creating lasting diffusion without competing with the delicate ylang-ylang and Damascus rose.
Used to soften the citrus top notes and create seamless transition to the floral heart, while adding fabric affinity for longer wear.
Forms the modern musk backbone that interacts with ambroxan to create the distinctive ‘your skin but better’ effect.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Galaxolide belongs to the polycyclic musk family, specifically an isochroman derivative. Developed in the 1960s as a synthetic alternative to natural animal musks, it’s produced through acid-catalyzed cyclization of appropriate precursors. The molecule’s rigidity contributes to its exceptional stability and longevity in formulations. Unlike macrocyclic musks, Galaxolide’s compact structure gives it higher volatility while maintaining tenacious odor characteristics.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Colorless to pale yellow viscous liquid |
|---|---|
| Boiling Point | >300 °C |
| Flash Point | >100 °C |
| Density | 1.01 g/cm³ |
| Refractive Index | 1.530-1.540 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water, miscible with alcohols and oils |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 5-15% | Up to 20% | Musk foundation for modern compositions |
| Functional Products | 0.5-3% | Up to 5% | Provides lasting freshness in detergents |
| Body Care | 1-5% | Up to 8% | Creates skin-affinitive musk effect |
Classic Accords
+ Ambroxan + Iso E Super = Molecular Amber
Tip: Use Galaxolide to anchor bright top notes and prevent harsh transitions in modern floral compositions.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For a smoother, more rounded musk profile with less diffusion but similar tenacity.
When a more natural, lactonic musk character is desired without the metallic facets.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. IFRA, REACH, EU Cosmetics Regulation standards update periodically. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating. Not legal or regulatory advice.
IFRA Status
No IFRA restrictions. Listed on IFRA Transparency List for fragrance ingredients.
EU Allergen Declaration
Not listed as an EU allergen.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM safety assessment confirms safe use at current industry levels, though environmental persistence is noted.
Sustainability
As a synthetic musk, Galaxolide avoids the ethical concerns of animal-derived musks but presents environmental persistence challenges. Modern wastewater treatment struggles to fully remove it, leading to low-level aquatic accumulation. Responsible use includes proper disposal and consideration of biodegradability in formulation decisions.
Explore Galaxolide
Browse essential oils and aroma compounds.
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Industry & Science Data
References
- IFRA Transparency List (2023). Galaxolide. IFRA
- Environmental Risk Assessment Report (2018). Polycyclic Musks. ECHA
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Mar 2026.
