Tetrahydro-pseudo-ionone (CAS 1322-58-3) — Woody Middle Note Fragrance Ingredient

Woody · Sweet

Tetrahydro-pseudo-ionone

CAS 1322-58-3

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

What Is Tetrahydro-pseudo-ionone?

Tetrahydro-pseudo-ionone is a synthetic fragrance ingredient used in perfumes and personal care products to add woody, floral nuances. It’s commonly found in fine fragrances and body care formulations. This molecule matters because it provides stability and longevity to floral-woody accords, making scents last longer on skin while maintaining a natural character.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
IFRA compliant
No known major restrictions
CAS
1322-58-3
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Woody · Sweet
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Tetrahydro-pseudo-ionone Smell Like?

Tetrahydro-pseudo-ionone unfolds with an initial burst of sweet, woody character reminiscent of sandalwood shavings dipped in honey. As it evolves, floral facets emerge like violets blooming in a cedar forest. The dry-down reveals a creamy, ambery warmth with subtle tobacco undertones. Its tenacity allows it to act as a bridge between top notes and base materials, providing exceptional diffusion while avoiding harshness.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Santal 33(Le Labo, 2011)

Used to amplify the woody signature while adding floral softness to balance the sharpness of cedar. Provides the creamy sandalwood illusion without using restricted materials.

Terre d'Hermès(Hermès, 2006)

Contributes to the mineral-wodry accord, blending with vetiver and flint notes to create the scent’s distinctive earthy yet refined character.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Tetrahydro-pseudo-ionone belongs to the ionone family of cyclic terpenoids. While not found in nature, it shares structural similarities with naturally occurring ionones. Synthesized through hydrogenation of pseudo-ionone, this saturated analog offers improved stability and different olfactory properties compared to its unsaturated counterparts. The molecule’s rigid cyclohexane ring contributes to its woody character while the remaining unsaturated bond provides floral nuances.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid
Odor Threshold0.01 ppm in water

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Middle
Volatility
Medium (2-6 hours)
Blending
Excellent
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance1-5%Up to 10%Woody-floral modifier
Body Care0.5-2%Up to 3%Adds sophistication to woody bases

Classic Accords

Tip: Use to round out sharp woody notes and add diffusion to floral compositions.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Iso E Super CAS 54464-57-2

For more transparent woody effects with less floral character. Better for minimalist compositions.

2
Sandalore CAS 65113-99-7

When a richer sandalwood character is desired. More expensive but provides superior tenacity.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No IFRA restrictions. Compliant under all current standards.

RIFM Assessment

RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current industry levels.

Sustainability

As a synthetic material, tetrahydro-pseudo-ionone offers consistent quality without natural sourcing constraints. Its efficient synthesis from pseudo-ionone minimizes waste, and the hydrogenation process uses catalysts that can be recycled. The material’s potency means relatively small quantities are needed in formulations.

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References

  1. Bauer, K. et al. (2001). Common Fragrance and Flavor Materials. Wiley-VCH.

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

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