Helvetolide
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Helvetolide (CAS 141773-73-1) is a macrocyclic musk developed by Firmenich, known for its long-lasting, soft musky scent with a distinctive fruity-pear nuance. It belongs to the class of alicyclic musks and functions as a top-to-base modifier, delivering tenacity without overwhelming floral or fruity compositions. Uniquely, it contributes to top note radiance while offering classic musk persistence, making it a versatile fixative in modern perfumery.
Available exclusively in 12 ml format.
Premium Synthetic Ingredient for Perfumery
Helvetolide (CAS 141773-73-1) is a macrocyclic musk developed by Firmenich, known for its long-lasting, soft musky scent with a distinctive fruity-pear nuance. It belongs to the class of alicyclic musks and functions as a top-to-base modifier, delivering tenacity without overwhelming floral or fruity compositions. Uniquely, it contributes to top note radiance while offering classic musk persistence, making it a versatile fixative in modern perfumery.
Available exclusively in 12 ml format.
Premium Synthetic Ingredient for Perfumery
Helvetolide (CAS 141773-73-1) is a macrocyclic musk developed by Firmenich, known for its long-lasting, soft musky scent with a distinctive fruity-pear nuance. It belongs to the class of alicyclic musks and functions as a top-to-base modifier, delivering tenacity without overwhelming floral or fruity compositions. Uniquely, it contributes to top note radiance while offering classic musk persistence, making it a versatile fixative in modern perfumery.
Available exclusively in 12 ml format.
Synthetic Ingredient Overview
🏭 Manufacturer: Firmenich
🔎 Chemical Name: 6-Cyclohexadecen-1-one, 3-(3,3-dimethyl-1,2-butadienyl)-, (3Z)-
🧪 Synonyms: Helvetolide, Musk Helvetolide, (3Z)-6-Cyclohexadecen-1-one derivative
🧬 Chemical Formula: C₁₈H₃₂O
📂 CAS N°: 141773-73-1
📘 FEMA: Not listed (not for flavor use)
⚖️ MW: 284.45 g/mol
📝 Odor Type: Musk (Macrocyclic)
📈 Odor Strength: Medium (high persistence; up to 2 weeks on blotter)
👃🏼 Odor Profile: Soft, modern musk with fruity-pear facet; reminiscent of ambrette seed
⚗️ Uses: Fixative, Floral Modifier, Top-to-Base Musk Support
🧴 Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow liquid
What is Helvetolide?
Helvetolide is a macrocyclic musk introduced by Firmenich, positioned olfactively between Ambrettolide and Musk T (Ethylene Brassylate). Its molecular structure includes a cyclohexadecenone backbone and a dimethylbutadienyl side chain, contributing to both muskiness and fruity brightness.
This alicyclic ketone musk is one of the few that impacts the top note, providing lift and clarity early in evaporation, while ensuring a persistent drydown typical of macrocyclic musks. It is especially well-suited to fine fragrance and functional formulations, including shampoos, emulsions, and alcohol-based scents.
Olfactory Profile & Perfumery Applications
Helvetolide is characterized by a soft musky base and a clean fruity-pear overtone. It evokes the natural smell of ambrette seeds, bridging musk and fruit notes in a refined way.
Fragrance design roles:
Smooths out sharp floral or fruity top notes
Acts as a radiant fixative without heaviness
Supports musk accords in blends with Exaltolide, Habanolide, or Serenolide
Enhances skin scent impressions in fine fragrance and body care
Commonly used in:
Floral musks (rose, peony, ylang)
Fruity compositions (pear, lychee, apricot)
Skin musks, laundry-style perfumes, modern gourmands
Suggested internal link: See The Musks: An Insight for classification and comparison.
Industrial & Technical Uses
Helvetolide’s solubility and versatility make it compatible with:
Alcohol-based perfumes
Emulsions (e.g., creams, lotions)
Shampoo and hair care
Body washes and mild surfactant systems
It performs exceptionally in leave-on and rinse-off formats without breakdown or olfactory flattening.
Regulatory & Safety Overview
IFRA Classification: Permitted with standard usage limits (category-specific)
ECHA REACH: Not classified as hazardous
GRAS Status: Not permitted for flavor use
Toxicology: No reported sensitization under recommended usage
Biodegradability: Acceptable macrocyclic environmental profile compared to polycyclic musks
Stability: Stable in ethanol and aqueous emulsions
Standard handling procedures apply. Always check IFRA updates for category-specific limits.
Additional Information
Firmenich named Helvetolide in honor of the Helvetic Confederation (Switzerland), reflecting their Swiss origin.
Considered a modern classic for clean musk blocks that retain sensuality.
Supports olfactory lift while maintaining elegance in drydown.
Best used in synergy with macrocyclic enhancers like Exaltolide or Serenolide.
Comparison Tip: Think of Helvetolide as a musky-pear alternative to the more floral Ambrettolide or the more base-heavy Musk T.
Sources
User-provided source
PubChem Compound Summary CID 16063567
Firmenich Product Literature
Scentspiracy Archives
IFRA Standards Documentation
ECHA Substance Information
