Wiki • Updated December 2, 2025
Polycyclic Musks
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| Category |
Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Common uses |
Fragrances |
Polycyclic musks are a class of synthetic fragrance compounds widely used in personal care products, detergents, and air fresheners. They are designed to mimic natural musk scents and are favored for their stability, long-lasting fragrance, and resistance to degradation.
Common polycyclic musks include galaxolide (HHCB) and tonalide (AHTN), both of which are found in a variety of consumer goods. Unlike nitro musks, which have been largely phased out due to toxicity concerns, polycyclic musks remain prevalent in commercial formulations.
Despite their widespread use, polycyclic musks have raised environmental and health concerns. They are persistent in the environment [1] , bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms, and have been detected in human tissues. Some studies suggest they may act as endocrine disruptors. [2]