Cyclademol: The Complete Guide To This Aroma Chemical

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining everything you need to know.
Updated on: July 29, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available standards from The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Cyclademol?

Cyclademol is a synthetic aroma molecule first developed by DSM-Firmenich, the multinational fragrance and flavor house known for its focus on eco minded chemistry. While DSM-Firmenich holds the trademarked name, other suppliers sometimes offer the same molecule under more generic labels for use in bulk fragrance compounds.

Manufacturing relies on standard chemical synthesis in which smaller building blocks are combined through carefully controlled reactions. Current production lines follow green chemistry guidelines to reduce waste and energy use, making Cyclademol a comparatively modern-minded material.

At room temperature the ingredient presents as a clear to very slightly pale liquid that pours easily and blends without fuss. It is stable in both water based and oil based formulas, which has cemented its popularity across fine fragrance, toiletries, home care and candle making.

Creative perfumers appreciate that Cyclademol delivers a crisp aromatic lift without the cost burden of rare natural extracts. It typically falls in the affordable bracket, so it can be dosed generously even in mass market products.

With factory-sealed storage Cyclademol keeps its freshness for around three years. Over time the note can soften yet it rarely oxidises into anything unpleasant, giving it a solid reputation for shelf stability.

Cyclademol’s Scent Description

This molecule lives in the aromatic family, the broad group of materials best known for fresh herbal facets and clean sensations.

Smelled off a blotter Cyclademol opens with an instant hit of cool mint that feels almost icy. Within seconds a camphor like breeze pushes through, evoking notions of eucalyptus rub or a forest inhalation stick. As the strip dries you start noticing a faint metallic shimmer, similar to the snap of cold steel or the bite of frosted air. Underneath those obvious traits some users also catch a barely there citrus sparkle that brightens the whole accord.

Perfumers divide fragrances into top, middle and base notes. Tops are the quickest to rise then fade, middles form the heart and bases linger the longest. Cyclademol sits between top and middle: it bursts out strongly then hangs on just long enough to bridge into the heart of a composition.

Projection is lively for the first ten to fifteen minutes, giving a noticeable aura around the blotter before retreating closer to the surface. Longevity is moderate, usually two to three hours on paper which is enough to make an impact without overstaying its welcome.

How & Where To Use Cyclademol

Perfumers reach for Cyclademol when they want a clean minty lift that feels cooler than peppermint oil yet less medicinal than pure camphor. It shines in aromatic fougères, modern colognes and sporty florals where a flash of freshness is needed without adding sweetness.

The material slips easily into top or early heart accords. A few drops can sharpen bergamot, grapefruit or spearmint while a slightly higher dose reinforces eucalyptus or pine themes. It also pairs well with lavender, sage and rosemary, helping them feel brisk instead of dusty.

When building a metallic or high-tech accord Cyclademol provides that subtle silvery edge often associated with designer masculine scents. In aquatic builds it mimics a cool sea breeze, smoothing transitions between citrus zest and watery musks.

Typical usage sits anywhere between traces and 5 percent of the concentrate. At 0.1 percent the note is barely perceptible yet still boosts clarity. Around 1 percent the minty camphor facet becomes obvious and can dominate fleeting materials. Pushing past 3 percent risks a harsh metallic glare that may read as clinical so moderation is wise.

If a formula already contains strong menthol or iso borneol derivatives Cyclademol can tip the balance toward medicinal. Test in small increments, smelling the dilution on blotter and skin after each addition.

The ingredient dissolves readily in ethanol and most perfume-grade solvents. For water-based bases a premix in a little propylene glycol prevents cloudiness. No special antioxidants are required but keep the bottle sealed to limit air exposure.

Because flashpoint sits near 90 °C it is safe for standard alcohol perfumes though candles or hot process soaps should be poured under 80 °C to retain freshness.

Safely Using Cyclademol

Dilution is key so measure a small amount into alcohol or dipropylene glycol before evaluation. Avoid direct sniffing from the bottle because concentrated vapors can numb the nose and mask subtler notes.

Work in a well-ventilated space or under a fume hood to keep airborne levels low. Basic protective gear matters: nitrile gloves shield skin, safety glasses stop accidental splashes.

Like many aroma chemicals Cyclademol can cause irritation in sensitive users. Discontinue contact if redness or discomfort appears. Anyone pregnant or breastfeeding should seek medical advice before handling to rule out extra risk.

Short encounters with diluted solutions are generally considered safe. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations, whether by skin contact or inhalation, increases the chance of headaches or irritation so cap bottles promptly and clean spills right away.

Store tightly closed containers in a cool dark place below 25 °C. Dispose of unwanted material via chemical waste collection not household drains to protect waterways.

Always refer to the most recent Safety Data Sheet supplied by your vendor and review International Fragrance Association guidance for maximum use levels in your product category. Regulations evolve so bookmark those documents and revisit them regularly before each new batch.

How To Store & Dispose of Cyclademol

Freshness starts with temperature control. Storing Cyclademol in a refrigerator between 4 °C and 10 °C slows oxidation and maintains its crisp minty profile for well over two years. If fridge space is tight a cool dark cupboard kept below 25 °C works fine as long as direct sunlight and heater vents are avoided.

Use glass or high-density polyethylene bottles fitted with polycone caps. These lined caps create an airtight seal that dropper tops cannot match, cutting down on evaporative loss and stray fumes. For dilutions in ethanol or dipropylene glycol keep separate bottles and tighten immediately after use.

Air is the enemy of stability. Decant large stock into smaller containers so each bottle stays as full as possible and top up headspace with nitrogen if you have access to a gas duster. Regularly wipe the threads before capping to prevent crust that can compromise the seal.

Label every container clearly with “Cyclademol,” its CAS number 25225-09-06, the date opened and hazard icons for flammable liquid and potential irritant. Include emergency contact numbers on larger drums so anyone can act fast if an accident occurs.

When a batch is no longer needed do not pour it down household drains. Cyclademol is not regarded as readily biodegradable so wastewater systems may struggle to break it down. Instead, collect leftovers in a dedicated solvent waste can for pickup by a licensed hazardous waste handler. Empty bottles should be triple-rinsed with a little solvent, the rinsate added to the waste can, then the dry glass or plastic can be recycled according to local rules.

Summary

Cyclademol is a minty camphoraceous liquid aroma chemical from DSM-Firmenich that brings a cool metallic edge to perfumes, soaps and home care products. Affordable, stable in most bases and easy to blend, it gives perfumers a brisk bridge between citrus top notes and woody or musky hearts.

The ingredient enjoys steady popularity because it lifts freshness without the sweetness of classic mint oils. Used sparingly, it sharpens fougères, aquatics and sporty florals though at high levels it can turn too clinical. It dissolves well in ethanol, survives moderate heat and has a respectable flashpoint around 90 °C, making it suitable for candles and hot process soaps when temperatures stay under 80 °C.

Prices remain moderate thanks to straightforward chemical synthesis, and its two-year shelf life stretches further with cool dark storage or refrigeration. Hobbyists can pick up small volumes from specialty fragrance suppliers while commercial houses can source drums directly from DSM-Firmenich or trusted generic manufacturers.

Handle it with gloves and ventilation, label every container clearly and dispose of residues through hazardous waste channels. Follow those basics and Cyclademol will reward you with a crisp, lasting sparkle that keeps modern formulas feeling freshly minted.

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