Methyl Cedryl Ketone: a woody and leathery note

ECSA Chemicals introduces Methyl Cedryl Ketone at SIMPPAR 2025

ECSA Chemicals introduces Methyl Cedryl Ketone at SIMPPAR 2025 (Paris 4-5 June 2025), a key base note ingredient for refined perfumery.

MCK (Methyl Cedryl Ketone) is a synthetic aromatic compound with woody, smoky, leathery and powdery facets. It mimics Virginia cedarwood and vetiver with a cleaner, more stable and long-lasting profile.

Origin and Olfactive Profile

Year of discovery 1972

Volatility: Base

Origin: Artificial molecule

Olfactive family: woody

Olfactive description: smoky, woody Virginia cedarwood but cleaner, powdery, leathery, floral violet flowers

Restriction: none

Aspect: pale yellow to brown liquid

Introduction to Mck

Methyl Cedryl Ketone (MCK), also known as Vertofix, is a synthetic aromatic compound frequently used in perfumery to impart woody and earthy notes. It is designed to mimic the natural scent of cedarwood and vetiver, providing a stable and long-lasting alternative to these natural ingredients.

Characteristics of Methyl Cedryl Ketone

MCK is characterized by a rich, slightly smoky, leathery and powdery scent profile, with hints of earthy and balsamic undertones. Its woody facet makes it a perfect balance between the smoky cedarwood and the earthy vetiver, creating an elegant and sophisticated note that enhances the base of a fragrance.

Notable uses in perfumery ok MCK

MCK is a versatile ingredient in many fragrances, especially used when a woody, earthy or smoky note. It is mainly found in:

• Woody fragrances: MCK is used as a core component in woody fragrances, where it provides a strong, long-lasting woody character to the perfume.
• Ambery/oriental fragrances: MCK complements spicy, resinous and balsamic notes, adding depth and complexity to the formulation.
• Chypre fragrances: MCK enhances the mossy-moldy facet, a key quality of the chypre accord, and blends seamlessly with oakmoss (substituted by veramoss), patchouli and labdanum.

Mck as a base note

MCK is typically used as a base note due to its low volatility and excellent longevity. It provides a lasting foundation for fragrances, allowing the scent to evolve gradually and persist on the skin.

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