Ingredient review
Cyclotetradecanone
INCI: CYCLOTETRADECANONE
Cyclotetradecanone is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that adds a musky scent to products; it is generally considered safe at low concentrations but offers no skincare benefits.
In plain English
Cyclotetradecanone is a man-made chemical that smells musky and is added to products like perfumes and lotions to give them a pleasant scent. It doesn't moisturize, treat, or improve your skin—it's purely for fragrance. Because it's used in tiny amounts, it rarely causes problems, but if you have sensitive skin or allergies to fragrances, you might want to avoid it.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is useful, but some claims depend heavily on the formula.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- synthetic
- Evidence
- moderate
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Cyclotetradecanone is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Cyclotetradecanone.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
moderateThere is useful support, but formula details and claim strength still matter.
What it is
A synthetic cyclic ketone (a type of organic compound) used primarily as a fragrance ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products. It belongs to the macrocyclic musk family, known for their clean, long-lasting scent.
How it works
Cyclotetradecanone works by evaporating from the skin or product surface, releasing its musky aroma into the air. It does not interact with skin cells or provide any functional benefit beyond scent. In a formula, it is blended at very low concentrations to avoid irritation while still delivering fragrance.
Pros
Pleasant scent
Adds a clean, musky fragrance that many find appealing and long-lasting.
Low irritation risk
At typical low concentrations, it rarely causes skin reactions for most people.
Cons and cautions
No skincare benefit
It only provides scent—no moisturizing, anti-aging, or protective effects for the skin.
Potential allergen
Like many fragrance ingredients, it can trigger allergic reactions or irritation in sensitive individuals.
Best for
- People who enjoy scented products and have no fragrance allergies
- Those looking for a long-lasting musky fragrance in their routine
Use caution if
- Individuals with sensitive skin, eczema, or known fragrance allergies
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cyclotetradecanone is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations by major regulatory bodies. It has low acute toxicity and is not a significant skin sensitizer for most people, though rare allergic reactions can occur.
Research notes
Research on cyclotetradecanone is limited but consistent with other macrocyclic musks. Safety assessments by the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) and the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) support its safe use within established concentration limits.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at very low concentrations, often below 1%
- Regulatory status
- Approved for use in cosmetics in the EU, US, and many other regions, subject to concentration limits to ensure safety.
- Common uses
- Fragrances, Perfumes, Scented Lotions, Body Washes
- Environmental note
- As a synthetic compound, it may persist in the environment; however, macrocyclic musks are generally considered less bioaccumulative than some older synthetic musks.
Good to know
- Cyclotetradecanone is often listed simply as 'fragrance' or 'parfum' on labels, so you may not see it by name.
- It is a synthetic version of natural musk compounds, which are rarely used due to ethical and sustainability concerns.
Common questions
What is Cyclotetradecanone in beauty products?
Cyclotetradecanone is a man-made chemical that smells musky and is added to products like perfumes and lotions to give them a pleasant scent. It doesn't moisturize, treat, or improve your skin—it's purely for fragrance. Because it's used in tiny amounts, it rarely causes problems, but if you have sensitive skin or allergies to fragrances, you might want to avoid it.
What does Cyclotetradecanone do in a beauty product?
Cyclotetradecanone works by evaporating from the skin or product surface, releasing its musky aroma into the air. It does not interact with skin cells or provide any functional benefit beyond scent. In a formula, it is blended at very low concentrations to avoid irritation while still delivering fragrance.
Is Cyclotetradecanone safe for most people?
Cyclotetradecanone is considered safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations by major regulatory bodies. It has low acute toxicity and is not a significant skin sensitizer for most people, though rare allergic reactions can occur.
Who should be careful with Cyclotetradecanone?
Individuals with sensitive skin, eczema, or known fragrance allergies
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.