Steroids, hydroxy (CAS 68555-08-08) — Musky Base Note Fragrance Ingredient

Musky · Woody

Steroids, hydroxy

CAS 68555-08-08

Origin
synthetic
Note
Base
IFRA
Use with awareness
Data as of: Apr 2026

What Is Steroids, hydroxy?

Hydroxy steroids are synthetic compounds occasionally used in niche perfumery. They’re found in avant-garde fragrances pushing olfactory boundaries. These molecules matter because they offer unique musky-woody profiles that challenge traditional animalic materials, providing ethical alternatives with intriguing scent profiles.

Safety Profile

USE WITH AWARENESS
Generally safeUse with awarenessProfessional use
Limited safety data – use caution
Potential sensitizer
CAS
68555-08-08
Formula
Mixture
MW
Variable
Odor Family
Musky · Woody
Layer 1 · Enthusiast

What Does Steroids, hydroxy Smell Like?

Hydroxy steroids present a complex olfactory character – initially sharp and chemical, evolving into a warm musky-woody drydown. Imagine the intellectual austerity of a laboratory bench transforming into the animalic warmth of sun-baked fur. The scent progression feels like molecular origami, unfolding from steroidal rigidity into surprisingly pliable olfactory forms.

Scent Profile
Layer 2

Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide

The Chemistry

Hydroxy steroids belong to the modified steroid class, synthesized through selective hydroxylation of steroid precursors. These semi-synthetic compounds bridge pharmaceutical chemistry and perfumery, offering modified versions of naturally occurring steroid frameworks. The hydroxyl group introduces polarity that affects volatility and scent characteristics compared to their parent compounds.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Perfumer Guide

Note Position
Base
Volatility
Very low (days-weeks)
Blending
Challenging
ApplicationTypical %RangeNotes
Experimental Fragrances0.1-0.5%Up to 1%Extreme caution required
Accord Modifier0.01-0.1%Trace amountsFor musky enhancement

Classic Accords

Tip: Use minute quantities as musky enhancer in avant-garde compositions.

Alternatives & Comparisons

1
Ambroxide CAS 6790-58-5

For cleaner musky effects without steroid complexity.

2
Galaxolide CAS 1222-05-5

When stable white musk foundation is needed instead.

Layer 3

Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability

⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer

General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.

IFRA Status

No specific IFRA restrictions, but falls under general steroid caution.

RIFM Assessment

No RIFM assessment available due to limited usage.

Sustainability

As synthetic materials, hydroxy steroids avoid animal sourcing concerns but require energy-intensive pharmaceutical-grade synthesis. Their environmental impact depends on manufacturing processes and disposal protocols.

Explore Steroids, hydroxy

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References

    Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.

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