What Is Cyclal C?
Cyclal C is a single aroma molecule created in the laboratory rather than distilled from a plant. Givaudan introduced it to the fragrance world, and they still lead production, yet a few aroma chemical suppliers now offer comparable versions under generic names.
The material is built through a multi step chemical process that usually starts with citrus derived terpene feedstocks. These raw components are rearranged and refined until the finished liquid shows the hallmark bright green odour profile perfumers look for.
At room temperature Cyclal C is a clear liquid that can look water white or carry a faint straw tint. It pours easily, mixes well with alcohol and most perfume oils, and leaves no residue.
Perfumers reach for it often because it brings an instantly recognisable leafy freshness that feels true to nature. You will find it in modern fine fragrances, functional products like shampoos and fabric conditioners, and even scented candles. Because demand is steady, it is made in industrial volumes and is usually classed as a mid priced ingredient rather than a luxury raw material.
When stored in a well sealed container kept cool and out of direct light it will remain in good shape for roughly two to three years. After that the odour can flatten and slight color change may occur, so professionals tend to replenish stock regularly.
Cyclal C’s Scent Description
Cyclal C sits squarely in the green family of perfumery notes.
Off a fresh blotter the first impression is a snap of crushed stems and newly cut leaves. There is a humid garden quality, almost like breaking the vein of a tomato leaf, paired with a very light floral shimmer that keeps it from smelling like pure grass. A subtle citrus sparkle peeks through in the opening, then a cool watery nuance follows, giving the overall effect a clean breathability.
In the classic top-middle-base structure Cyclal C behaves as a top to early heart note. It flashes brightly in the first minutes, holds attention through the next hour, then drifts away before the deeper base materials take over. On a paper blotter it usually remains detectable for about four hours, though the most vibrant phase sits in the first ninety minutes.
Projection is lively at low dosages so a little goes a long way. In a finished perfume the note radiates well in the air yet does not linger on skin beyond mid wear, making it perfect for adding an opening burst of realism without weighing the formula down.
How & Where To Use Cyclal C
Perfumers turn to Cyclal C when a formula needs the snap of fresh foliage without veering into bitterness. It excels at lifting citrus openings, expanding fruity accords or polishing floral hearts that feel flat. A trace dose can make a pear note taste juicier or give a rose more realism by recreating the smell of its crushed leaves.
The material also shines in modern chypres, fougères and green teas where the brief burst of cut grass suggests outdoor air. Compared with classic leafy molecules such as cis-3-Hexenol, Cyclal C smells less raw and brings a faint floral sheen so it fits smoothly into elegant creations. You may reach for it instead of Galbanum when you want green brightness without resinous weight.
Recommended usage sits in the 0.1-3 percent range, though some specialists push to 5 percent in functional products where fragrance has to survive harsh surfactants. At 0.1 percent it gives a gentle leafy nuance. Around 1 percent the note reads as freshly mown lawn with a slight petal accent. Beyond 3 percent the aldehydic side can break through, turning the aroma sharp and metallic so moderation matters.
Cyclal C blends quickly with most solvents yet a short premix is helpful. Many perfumers keep a 10 percent solution in ethanol or dipropylene glycol ready on the bench. This not only makes fine dosing easier but also reduces the risk of nose fatigue when smelling trials.
The molecule is heat tolerant and survives high pH which is why it scores well in soap and detergent tests. It can, however, clash with dense amber bases or heavy animalics that bury its fleeting sparkle. If you fear that happening, layer it with longer lasting greens such as Stemone or Verdox so the freshness remains after Cyclal C fades.
In short, Cyclal C is a workhorse for vivid green lift yet it requires a light hand and a touch of planning. Keep a dilute on standby, trial several concentrations and pair it with supportive notes to make the most of its brief but brilliant impact.
Safely Using Cyclal C
Dilution is key so always prepare a workable solution before evaluating or blending. Avoid direct sniffing from the bottle as the concentrated vapour can overwhelm the nose. Work in a well ventilated space to keep airborne levels low and wear gloves plus safety glasses to shield skin and eyes from splashes.
Most users tolerate Cyclal C well but every aroma chemical carries some risk of irritation or allergy, especially on sensitive skin. Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a medical professional before regular handling. Short encounters with low concentrations are viewed as low risk yet extended or high level exposure can lead to headaches, respiratory discomfort or dermatitis.
Store the material tightly closed in a cool dark place to limit oxidation that could raise its sensitising potential. Wipe spills promptly with absorbent paper then wash the area with soapy water, disposing of waste following local regulations.
Finally check the latest safety data sheet issued by your supplier and review it periodically because classifications can change as new research emerges. Follow current IFRA guidelines for maximum usage levels in each product type to protect both the wearer and the creator.
How To Store & Dispose of Cyclal C
Freshness starts with good storage. Keep Cyclal C in a cool dark cupboard away from any direct sunlight or heat sources that can accelerate oxidation. Refrigeration is optional but helpful if you have room, especially for stock you will not touch for several months.
The bottle matters almost as much as the temperature. Choose glass with a tight polycone cap for both neat material and dilutions. Dropper tops tend to leak air, letting oxygen creep in and dull the scent. Whenever possible top up containers so the headspace is minimal.
If you split the material into working solutions, label every vial clearly with the ingredient name, concentration, date filled and any hazard phrases from the safety data sheet. Clear labeling prevents mix-ups and makes life easier if someone else has to audit your shelf.
Handle empty or aged bottles with care. Wipe the threads clean, recap securely and place them in a sealed bag until you can take them to a local chemical collection point. Do not pour leftovers down the drain as Cyclal C is only partly biodegradable and can stress wastewater systems.
For small hobby amounts, mix any residue with an absorbent material such as cat litter, seal it in a sturdy container and dispose of it as household hazardous waste per local rules. Commercial users should follow their site’s solvent disposal protocol and keep documentation on file.
Summary
Cyclal C is a green aroma chemical from Givaudan that smells like snapped leaves with a light floral lift. Used at 0.1 to 3 percent it brightens citrus, fruit and floral accords and gives soaps or detergents a crisp outdoor feel.
Its popularity rests on that natural leafy tone, fair price and solid stability across a wide pH range. Still, the note is short-lived so you may need supporting greens if you want lasting freshness. Oxidation can blunt its sparkle which is why cool storage and tight caps count.
Bulk drums come direct from Givaudan or other large suppliers. Smaller volumes for trials or hobby work can be found through specialty fragrance resellers and generic manufacturers who sell by the gram or ounce. However you source it, treat it with respect, label it well and enjoy the quick burst of garden-fresh life it brings to a blend.