Synthetic

Benzyl Salicylate

Note Profile

Molecule

About

Benzyl Salicylate has a mild, sweet, and slightly balsamic floral scent with nuances reminiscent of jasmine, ylang-ylang, and other white florals. It is an important modifier in perfumery, contributing softness and a creamy, powdery effect to floral compositions, and often imparts a coumarin-like warmth.

Scent Profile

Benzyl Salicylate has a gentle, sweet floral aroma with nuances reminiscent of light jasmine and a subtle balsamic warmth. It is soft, slightly powdery, and imparts a diffusive, radiant effect that lingers in the background. Over time, it maintains its mild floral character while providing a smooth, cohesive base for other notes.

ScentWheel

Breadthfocused

EnvelopeBase · ~36h lasting

Family Floral

Read off the wheel, not a label applied to the note.

What this is made of

benzyl salicylate

Names this molecule

CAS 118-58-1

The note name IS the molecule - benzyl salicylate, CAS 118-58-1.

Declarable allergen: Named in EU Annex III as Benzyl salicylate products must list this name above a set concentration
Restricted: An IFRA Standard limits how much of this a perfumer can use the limit applies to the perfumer, not the wearer

These are facts about the substance, not about any perfume with this note.

Why that matters

A perfume that names Benzyl Salicylate can use a different extract, a reformulated version, or a synthetic reconstruction. It can also hold less than the amount that requires a declaration. We cannot tell which applies. These rows cover only the substances we hold a link for.

How the layers join

Origin

This ingredient is a synthetic compound produced by the esterification of benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid. It does not occur in high concentrations naturally but can be found in trace amounts in some essential oils, such as ylang-ylang. Industrially, it is manufactured for use in perfumery and cosmetics due to its stability and versatility.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers commonly use Benzyl Salicylate as a heart or base note, especially in floral, woody, and musky compositions. It acts as a fixative and blender, enhancing the longevity and harmony of delicate floral accords, particularly jasmine and lily-of-the-valley. It is valued for its ability to soften sharp notes and support the overall structure of a fragrance.