Hyaluronic Acid (CAS 9004-61-9) — Citrus Fragrance Ingredient

neutral

Hyaluronic Acid

CAS 9004-61-9

Origin
natural
Note
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Mar 2026

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar molecule found in human skin, joints, and connective tissues. It’s commonly used in skincare products for its moisture-binding properties. While odorless in fragrance applications, it’s valued as a non-irritating humectant that can improve product texture and skin feel.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Biocompatible and naturally occurring
Non-irritating at cosmetic concentrations
CAS
9004-61-9
Formula
C28H44N2O23
MW
776.6
Odor Family
neutral
Hyaluronic Acid 2D structure
Hyaluronic Acid
C28H44N2O23
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Hyaluronic Acid Smell Like?

Hyaluronic acid is completely odorless, making it unique among fragrance ingredients. While it doesn’t contribute aromatic qualities, its exceptional water-binding capacity (holding up to 1000 times its weight in water) makes it valuable for modifying product texture and enhancing the longevity of other fragrance components through improved substrate adhesion.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Baccarat Rouge 540(Maison Francis Kurkdjian, 2015)

Used as a textural enhancer in the base, creating a smooth, skin-adherent quality that prolongs the amberwood and saffron accord.

Glossier You(Glossier, 2017)

Incorporated for its skin-compatibility in this personal scent, helping the musk and iris notes meld seamlessly with the wearer’s chemistry.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Hyaluronic acid is a glycosaminoglycan composed of repeating disaccharide units of D-glucuronic acid and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine. Its massive molecular weight (often 600-2000 kDa in nature) gives it unique rheological properties. Commercial production typically involves bacterial fermentation (Streptococcus zooepidemicus) or extraction from rooster combs. The polymer’s extensive hydrogen bonding network creates its remarkable water retention capacity, with each molecule forming a hydration sphere around its numerous hydroxyl and carboxyl groups.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Molecular Weight776.6 g/mol
XLogP-7.4
Topological Polar Surface Area400 Ų

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
N/A
Volatility
N/A
Blending
Textural modifier
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance0.1-0.5%Up to 1%Texture enhancement
Body Lotions0.5-2%Up to 5%Humectant properties

Classic Accords

+ Aloe Vera = Cooling gel texture + Silicones = Smooth silicone blends

Tip: Use low-salt grades to prevent viscosity fluctuations in ethanol-based fragrances.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Sodium Hyaluronate CAS 9067-32-7

More water-soluble salt form with similar humectant properties but different rheological behavior.

2
Glycerin CAS 56-81-5

Classic humectant without the film-forming properties of hyaluronic acid.

Layer 3

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

Not restricted by IFRA – classified as safe for all cosmetic applications.

RIFM Assessment

RIFM assessment confirms safety for topical use at cosmetic concentrations.

Sustainability

Fermentation-derived hyaluronic acid offers sustainable production with reduced animal sourcing concerns. Modern biotechnology allows precise control over molecular weight distributions, minimizing waste. Biodegradable and non-bioaccumulative, though energy-intensive purification processes remain an environmental consideration.

Explore Hyaluronic Acid

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References

  1. PubChem Compound Summary for Hyaluronic Acid CID 24759
  2. Fakhari A, Berkland C. (2013). Applications and emerging trends of hyaluronic acid in tissue engineering. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. PMID 23313844

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

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