Citral
Citrus

Citral

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Note Profile

Molecule

About

Citral exudes a pure, bright, and zesty lemon aroma with green, slightly woody undertones. It is often perceived as sharp and fresh, evoking freshly grated lemon peel, and is commonly blended to boost citrus accords in fragrances.

Scent Profile

Citral has a vivid, clean lemon scent with pronounced zesty and aldehydic qualities. It features subtle green and slightly woody undertones, creating a sharp, fresh impression that closely resembles freshly grated lemon peel. Over time, its brightness softens, leaving a lingering green-citrus nuance.

ScentWheel

Breadthfocused
EnvelopeTop · ~3h lasting

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

What this is made of

citral

Names this molecule

CAS 141-27-5

The note name IS the molecule - citral, CAS 141-27-5.

Declarable allergen
Named in EU Annex III as Geranial 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 Citral 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

Citral is a naturally occurring acyclic monoterpene aldehyde found in the essential oils of lemongrass, Litsea cubeba, and lemon myrtle. It is typically isolated through steam distillation of these plant sources or produced synthetically for use in perfumery and flavoring.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use citral primarily as a top note to impart a realistic lemon effect and enhance citrus accords. It blends well with other citrus oils, aromatic herbs, and green notes, and is often employed to add freshness or to modify floral and fruity compositions. Due to its volatility, it is rarely used as a base note.

Similar Notes

Perfumes featuring Citral

A selection of reviewed perfumes where Citral appears prominently.

No perfumes featuring this note have been reviewed yet. Check back soon.