What it is
A polycyclic musk, one of the most widely used synthetic musks globally.
What it does
Provides a soft, clean musk scent in perfumes, laundry detergents, and fabric softeners.
Why it’s a concern
Galaxolide is persistent, has been detected in surface water, sediment, fish, and human blood and breast milk. Studies suggest it can interfere with cellular efflux pumps that protect against xenobiotics (Luckenbach and Epel 2005, Environmental Health Perspectives). Its lipophilic nature promotes bioaccumulation in aquatic food webs.
Also known as
HHCB1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta[g]-2-benzopyran
CAS numbers
1222-05-5
Commonly found in
perfumelaundry detergentfabric softener
Safer alternatives
- macrocyclic musks with better biodegradability
- fragrance-free products
Related chemical families
Sources
- Luckenbach and Epel 2005, EHP