Tetrahydromuguol (CAS 41678-36-8) — Musky Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

ByThe Good Scents
Musky · Woody

Tetrahydromuguol

CAS 41678-36-8

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

What Is Tetrahydromuguol?

Tetrahydromuguol is a synthetic musk compound used in modern perfumery. It provides a clean, musky foundation in many personal care products and fine fragrances. This ingredient matters because it offers a sustainable alternative to animal-derived musks while delivering long-lasting scent stability.

Safety Profile

GENERALLY SAFE
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
✓ IFRA approved for use
⚠ Potential bioaccumulation concerns
CAS
41678-36-8
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Musky · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Tetrahydromuguol Smell Like?

Tetrahydromuguol presents a refined musky character with subtle woody undertones. Unlike animalic musks, it delivers a clean, laundry-like softness that evolves into a warm skin-scent over time. The dry-down reveals a persistent, slightly powdery aura reminiscent of sun-warmed cotton sheets.

Scent Profile

In Famous Fragrances

Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.

Molecule 04(Escentric Molecules, 2010)

Showcases tetrahydromuguol’s clean musk profile in a minimalist composition that creates subtle intimacy.

Glossier You(Glossier, 2017)

Uses tetrahydromuguol as a skin-mimicking base note that adapts to individual body chemistry.

Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Tetrahydromuguol belongs to the tetralin class of synthetic musks. It’s produced through hydrogenation of appropriate aromatic precursors followed by selective oxidation. The molecular structure allows for excellent stability while avoiding the environmental persistence issues of older nitro musks.

Physical & Chemical Properties

AppearanceColorless to pale yellow liquid

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low (8+ hours)
Blending
Excellent
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Fine Fragrance1-3%Up to 5%Musky foundation
Laundry Care0.5-1%Up to 2%Fabric substantivity

Classic Accords

Tip: Use with white musks to add dimensionality without animalic notes.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Galaxolide CAS 1222-05-5

More intense musk with laundry-clean character, but higher environmental persistence.

2
Ethylene Brassylate CAS 105-95-3

Softer musk alternative with excellent biodegradability profile.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

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

IFRA Status

No restrictions under IFRA 49th Amendment.

RIFM Assessment

RIFM assessment confirms safe use at current industry levels.

Sustainability

As a synthetic musk, tetrahydromuguol avoids the ecological impact of animal-derived musks. Modern production methods minimize hazardous byproducts. The compound shows improved biodegradability compared to earlier synthetic musks.

Explore Tetrahydromuguol

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References

  1. IFRA Standards Library IFRA 49th Amendment

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

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