Phenol, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethyl- (CAS 88-04-0) — Balsamic Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Balsamic · Woody

Phenol, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethyl-

CAS 88-04-0

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Professional use
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Phenol, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethyl-?

Phenol, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethyl- is a synthetic aromatic compound primarily used in industrial and laboratory settings. It may be encountered in specialized disinfectants or as a chemical intermediate. This ingredient matters in fragrance chemistry for its potential as a modifier in trace amounts, though it’s not commonly found in consumer products due to its strong phenolic character.

Safety Profile

PROFESSIONAL USE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
⚠ Potential skin irritant
✗ Not recommended for consumer products
CAS
88-04-0
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Balsamic · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Phenol, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethyl- Smell Like?

This compound presents a sharp, medicinal phenolic odor with intense antiseptic qualities reminiscent of hospital disinfectants. The initial blast is piercing and chemical, evolving into a more subdued but persistent tar-like character. In dry-down, it leaves a faint smoky residue note that can overpower delicate compositions unless used in minute quantities.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Phenol, 4-chloro-3,5-dimethyl- belongs to the halogenated phenol class, characterized by a benzene ring with hydroxyl and chloro substituents. The two methyl groups at positions 3 and 5 create steric hindrance that affects reactivity. As a synthetic compound, it’s typically produced through chlorination of dimethylphenols under controlled conditions. The molecule’s planar structure allows for strong intermolecular interactions.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low
Blending
Challenging
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Industrial applications<0.1%Trace onlyDisinfectant formulations
Fragrance researchppm levels0.001-0.01%Special effect modifier

Classic Accords

Tip: Use only in trace amounts with extreme caution due to persistence and potential skin sensitivity.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
p-Cresol CAS 106-44-5

Less halogenated phenol with similar medicinal character but lower irritation potential.

2
Guaiacol CAS 90-05-1

Methoxy phenol offering smoky notes without chlorine substituents.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

Not currently evaluated by IFRA due to industrial/non-consumer status.

GHS Classification

H302 Harmful if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H318 Causes serious eye damage

RIFM Assessment

No RIFM evaluation available for this industrial chemical.

Sustainability

As a synthetic halogenated compound, this material raises environmental concerns regarding persistence and bioaccumulation potential. Production requires careful waste management to prevent release of chlorinated byproducts. Not considered sustainable for fragrance applications.

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References

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

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