Cypress oil, terpeneless (CAS 68916-59-6) — Woody Heart to base Note Fragrance Ingredient
Cypress oil, terpeneless
CAS 68916-59-6
What Is Cypress oil, terpeneless?
Terpeneless cypress oil is a refined version of traditional cypress essential oil, often found in premium fragrances and spa products. The ‘terpeneless’ process removes heavier compounds, leaving a smoother aromatic profile. This ingredient matters because it offers the fresh, woody character of cypress without the harshness or quick fading of the full oil, making it ideal for long-lasting perfumes and skin-friendly formulations.
Safety Profile
GENERALLY SAFEWhat Does Cypress oil, terpeneless Smell Like?
Terpeneless cypress oil opens with an airy, almost citrus-like freshness reminiscent of crushed pine needles under sunlight. The heart reveals a crisp, clean woodiness – like sanded cypress planks mingled with distant hints of rosemary. As it dries down, it develops a subtle resinous sweetness akin to frankincense tears warmed on skin. Unlike regular cypress oil, the terpeneless version lacks the turpentine-like sharpness, instead offering a refined woody-herbal character that lingers as a sophisticated skin scent for hours.
In Famous Fragrances
Fragrance associations may not reflect actual formulations.
Used here for its polished woody facets that complement the sandalwood base, adding structural crispness to counteract the formula’s rich vanilla sweetness.
The terpeneless cypress provides the fragrance’s transparent woody backbone, creating the illusion of sun-warmed Japanese cypress wood without resinous heaviness.
Adds an aromatic lift to the sandalwood core, its refined woodiness bridging the spicy top notes and creamy drydown.
Contributes the dry, breezy wood aspect that suggests driftwood on coastal cliffs, tempered by the terpeneless process for airiness.
Used sparingly to enhance the cedar heart with Mediterranean character while maintaining the fragrance’s minimalist aesthetic.
Chemistry, Properties & Perfumer Guide
The Chemistry
Terpeneless cypress oil is produced through molecular distillation or solvent extraction of Cupressus sempervirens essential oil, selectively removing monoterpenes like α-pinene and camphene. This concentrates oxygenated sesquiterpenes and diterpenoids including cedrol and cuparene. The process typically retains 15-25% of the original oil’s mass while dramatically altering the olfactory profile. Unlike synthetic reconstructions, terpeneless oils maintain natural molecular synergies while eliminating components responsible for volatility and skin sensitivity.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Appearance | Pale yellow to amber liquid |
|---|---|
| Solubility | Soluble in ethanol and fixed oils |
| Refractive Index | 1.470 – 1.490 (20°C) |
| Specific Gravity | 0.930 – 0.960 (25°C) |
Perfumer Guide
| Application | Typical % | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Fragrance | 1-3% | Up to 5% | Adds refined woody character |
| Cosmetics | 0.5-2% | Up to 3% | Skin-safe woody note |
| Functional Products | 0.1-0.5% | Up to 1% | Fresh woody nuance |
| Aromatherapy | 0.5-1% | Up to 2% | Less irritating than full oil |
Classic Accords
Tip: Add in the heart phase to anchor citrus top notes while preventing the harshness that full cypress oil can introduce.
Alternatives & Comparisons
For pure woody character without herbal facets. More crystalline in odor profile but lacks the natural complexity.
When a more ambery, less green woody note is desired. Superior longevity but different olfactory signature.
For a greener, more coniferous interpretation with similar refinement but different botanical sourcing.
Safety, Regulatory & Sustainability
⚠ Regulatory Disclaimer
General reference only. Consult current IFRA Standards Library before formulating.
IFRA Status
No restrictions under IFRA 51st Amendment. Considered safe at standard usage levels in fragrance applications.
GHS Classification
RIFM Assessment
RIFM assessment confirms safety at current industry use levels, with margin of safety well above thresholds for sensitization.
Sustainability
Sourced from cultivated cypress trees primarily in Mediterranean regions. The terpeneless process increases yield efficiency by utilizing terpene byproducts for other industries. Compared to full essential oil, it requires 60% less plant material per kilo of finished product. Some producers implement carbon-neutral distillation methods.
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References
- Boelens (1994). Chemical and Sensory Evaluation of Terpeneless Essential Oils. Perfumer & Flavorist. Vol. 19, p. 23
- Lawrence (2003). Progress in Essential Oils: Cypress Oil. Perfumer & Flavorist. Vol. 28, p. 56
- Tisserand & Young (2014). Essential Oil Safety. Elsevier. p. 298
Data: PubChem (NIH), PubMed, RIFM, IFRA. Last reviewed: Apr 2026.
Report a data errorIngredient Data Sheet
CAS 68916-59-6Physical data: PubChem (NIH/NLM), U.S. EPA CompTox Dashboard, EPA OPERA models, RDKit. Odor & flavor: Arctander (Perfume & Flavor Chemicals), Fenaroli's Handbook of Flavor Ingredients, Leffingwell. Thresholds: van Gemert (Compilations of Odour Threshold Values). Regulatory: IFRA Standards 51st, FEMA GRAS. Trade names: Surburg (Common Fragrance & Flavor Materials). All data compiled and cross-referenced for perfumertools.com.
