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CIVETONE

Description

Civetone is a potent, musky odorant naturally produced by civet cats and now predominantly synthesized for use in perfumery and personal care products. This macrocyclic ketone, chemically known as (Z)-9-cycloheptadecenone, possesses a complex scent profile that contributes depth and longevity to fragrances. In skincare and haircare formulations, civetone serves as more than just a fragrance component. It exhibits fixative properties, helping to stabilize and prolong the scent of other volatile ingredients in a product. Civetone's molecular structure allows it to penetrate the stratum corneum, potentially enhancing the delivery of other active ingredients. Some studies suggest that civetone may have mild antimicrobial properties, which could be beneficial in maintaining product preservation and scalp health in haircare applications. Its low volatility ensures a lasting fragrance impact, making it particularly valuable in leave-on products and hair perfumes. However, due to its potency, civetone is typically used in minute concentrations, often less than 1% in finished formulations, to avoid overwhelming sensory experiences and potential skin sensitization.