3-Methylcyclopentadecanone (Muscone) - fragrance

INCI Name

3-Methylcyclopentade...

Functions

1 Roles

Sustainability

5/10

What It Does

3-Methylcyclopentadecanone, known as muscone, is the primary odoriferous compound originally isolated from the musk gland of the male musk deer, and is one of the most prized and complex musk fragrance materials in perfumery. It possesses a warm, animalic, soft, and deeply sensual scent profile with exceptional tenacity and fixative properties, making it a cornerstone of luxury fine fragrances and high-end cosmetic formulations. Formulators choose synthetic muscone not only for its unparalleled olfactory richness and long-lasting diffusion on skin, but also because it replaces the use of animal-derived musk, aligning with ethical and regulatory requirements while delivering an authentic musk character.

Creates pleasant product scent

Enhances sensory experience

Masks base ingredient odors

Contributes to brand identity

Technical Properties

Ionic Charge

nonionic

Molecular charge type

Viscosity Effect

neutral

Impact on formula thickness

Foaming Ability

none

Lather generation

Ingredient Compatibility

Works Well With

most fragrance ingredientsemollientsestersalcoholssiliconesnonionic emulsifiers

Avoid Combining

strong oxidizing agentsstrong acidsstrong bases

Compatibility analysis powered by OpenMix — open-source formulation science

Sustainability Profile

Sustainability Score

5/10

Biodegradability

inherently biodegradable

Source

synthetic

Feedstock

Historically derived from the musk deer (Moschus moschiferus), but modern cosmetic-grade muscone is exclusively produced via chemical synthesis or biotechnology to protect endangered species. Synthetic routes typically start from petroleum-derived or plant-derived cyclopentadecanone precursors.