Methoxycitronellal (CAS 3613-30-7) — Floral Top to Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Floral · Citrus

Methoxycitronellal

CAS 3613-30-7

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

What Is Methoxycitronellal?

Methoxycitronellal is a synthetic fragrance ingredient commonly used in perfumes and scented products. It imparts a fresh, floral, and slightly citrusy aroma. This ingredient matters because it adds a clean, uplifting quality to fragrances, often found in laundry detergents, air fresheners, and personal care products.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ Safe in regulated products
⚠ Potential skin sensitizer – check labels
CAS
3613-30-7
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Floral · Citrus
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Methoxycitronellal Smell Like?

Methoxycitronellal opens with a bright, citrusy freshness reminiscent of lemon peel, quickly transitioning into a floral heart that evokes lily of the valley. The dry-down reveals a soft, powdery sweetness with a hint of green freshness. Its evolution is smooth, making it a versatile top-to-middle note in fragrances.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Eau Sauvage(Dior, 1966)

Methoxycitronellal adds a fresh, floral-citrusy top note, enhancing the fragrance’s clean, masculine appeal.

L'Eau d'Issey(Issey Miyake, 1992)

Used to amplify the aquatic, floral freshness, contributing to its timeless, refreshing quality.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Methoxycitronellal is a monoterpenoid aldehyde, synthesized from citronellal via methoxylation. It belongs to the class of acyclic terpenoids, commonly used in perfumery for its fresh, floral odor. The synthesis typically involves the reaction of citronellal with methanol in the presence of an acid catalyst. Its molecular structure features a methoxy group attached to the citronellal backbone, which enhances its stability and fragrance profile.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Boiling Point198 °C
Density0.865 g/cm³

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Top to Middle
Volatility
Medium (1-2 hours)
Blending
Good
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance3-8%Up to 15%Adds fresh, floral top notes
Household Products1-5%Up to 10%Enhances clean, fresh scents

Classic Accords

Tip: Use methoxycitronellal to add a fresh, floral lift to citrus and green fragrances.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Citronellal CAS 106-23-0

A more citrusy alternative, less floral, used when a sharper top note is desired.

2
Hydroxycitronellal CAS 107-75-5

A more floral, powdery alternative, often used in lily-of-the-valley accords.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No restrictions under IFRA standards.

EU Allergen Declaration

Not listed as an EU allergen.

RIFM Assessment

RIFM assessment confirms safety at current usage levels.

Sustainability

Methoxycitronellal is synthetically produced, reducing the need for natural resource extraction. Its production is efficient, with minimal environmental impact when properly managed. Synthetic production ensures consistent quality and reduces variability compared to natural sources.

Explore Methoxycitronellal

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References

  1. PubChem. Methoxycitronellal. PubChem CID: 3613-30-7

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

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Layer 3 · Practical

  • Odor Profile: floral, fresh, sweet

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