Muscone, with the CAS number 541-91-3, is a synthetic aroma chemical known for its musky scent profile. It is often used in perfumery to impart a rich, animalic note that enhances the depth and complexity of fragrance compositions. Muscone is typically employed in the base notes of a formula, where it can provide a lasting impression and contribute to the overall warmth and sensuality of the scent. This ingredient is particularly valued in the formulation of oriental and woody fragrances, where its musky character can complement other notes such as amber, woods, and florals. In terms of safety and regulatory considerations, Muscone is subject to IFRA guidelines, which may impose restrictions on its usage levels in certain applications. As with many synthetic aroma chemicals, it is important for perfumers to be aware of potential allergenic responses, although Muscone itself is not commonly listed as a major allergen. Overall, Muscone serves as a versatile and effective component in modern perfumery, providing a distinctive musky character that enhances the olfactory experience. — AI-generated summary, 2026-09-02.
A refined, deeply musky base note with a warm, slightly sweet animalic character. Unlike white synthetic musks, muscone has a rounded, powdery, faintly urinous facet reminiscent of natural deer musk — soft, radiant, and skin-like, with excellent diffusion despite low volatility.AI · claude-opus-4-7
Composition, IFRA restriction figures, allergen concentrations and where this material is bought are part of Perfume Foundry’s curated library and need an account. Create one or sign in.
Other ingredients whose composition declares this material as a constituent. The percentage shown is the supplier-declared concentration in that parent.
| Ingredient | % | Range |
|---|---|---|
| COSMONEX 1485B | — | 1–5% |
Perfume and Flavor Chemicals, page 980.
White or colorless or opaque crystalline mass.
Almost insoluble in water, soluble in alcohol and oils.
Very soft, sweet and extremely tenacious, musky, but not animal, odor.
Muscone is used discretely in a large number of fine perfumes. It performs best when the perfumed product is applied to the human skin, and is therefore mainly found in luxury perfumes, powder perfumes, creme perfumes, etc.
Numerous patented methods which could be classified in A: from inexpensive raw materials but giving poor yields. B: from expensive starting materials, giving high yields. 1) from Glycols, via dicarboxylic acids. 2) from Dinitriles by cyclization. 3) from Diketones by cyclization.