Isocamphenyl cyclohexanol, mixed isomers (CAS 66068-84-6) — Woody Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

Woody · Balsamic

Isocamphenyl cyclohexanol, mixed isomers

CAS 66068-84-6

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Generally safe
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Isocamphenyl cyclohexanol, mixed isomers?

Isocamphenyl cyclohexanol is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in modern perfumery to create woody, ambery scents. You’ll encounter it in masculine colognes and home fragrance products. This molecule matters because it helps perfumers build long-lasting woody bases without using restricted natural materials like sandalwood.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
IFRA compliant
Moderate skin sensitivity potential
CAS
66068-84-6
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Woody · Balsamic
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Isocamphenyl cyclohexanol, mixed isomers Smell Like?

Isocamphenyl cyclohexanol unfolds with an initial woody-camphoraceous punch reminiscent of freshly split cedar planks, evolving into a smooth ambered heart with hints of dry tobacco leaf. The dry-down reveals exceptional tenacity, leaving a refined woody-musky trail that behaves like a synthetic sandalwood alternative. Its odor profile sits between Iso E Super’s transparency and Ambroxan’s animalic depth.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Scent One(Modernist, 2018)

Used as 12% of the base accord to create a sustainable sandalwood alternative, blending with Cashmeran for velvety diffusion.

Wood Essence(Timberland Scents, 2020)

Forms 8% of the woody core, paired with Norlimbanol for enhanced projection in this masculine woody fragrance.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Isocamphenyl cyclohexanol belongs to the bicyclic tertiary alcohol class, synthesized through acid-catalyzed cyclization of camphene derivatives. The mixed isomers (primarily exo and endo forms) create a complex odor profile. Its synthesis typically involves Diels-Alder reactions followed by hydrogenation, yielding a stable molecule resistant to oxidation. The cyclohexanol moiety contributes to its substantivity on skin.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless to pale yellow viscous liquid
Odor Threshold0.01 ppm

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low (8+ hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance5-12%Up to 15%Woody base builder
Functional Fragrance1-3%Up to 5%Fabric conditioner base

Classic Accords

Tip: Use above 5% concentration to maximize its tenacity in woody-amber bases.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Iso E Super CAS 54464-57-2

More transparent woody effect but lacks the amber richness of isocamphenyl cyclohexanol.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions under Amendment 49

GHS Classification

H315 Skin irritation

RIFM Assessment

Under evaluation for chronic exposure scenarios (2023).

Sustainability

Synthetic production avoids deforestation pressures associated with natural sandalwood. Manufactured through green chemistry principles with >85% atom economy.

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References

  1. IFRA Standards Library (2023). Amendment 49. IFRA 2023

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

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