Product Name

BHT / BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE / 2,6-DI-TERT-BUTYL-4-METHYLPHENOL

CAS No.: 128-37-0

🟢 Difficulty: Beginner

⏳ Lasting: High

🌸 Note: Base / Functional

Description

BHT, or Butylated Hydroxytoluene, is a synthetic antioxidant widely used to help protect fragrance and cosmetic formulations from oxidation. Unlike conventional aroma chemicals, BHT is primarily a functional formulation ingredient rather than a material added to create a distinctive perfume note. It is commonly supplied as a crystalline solid.

In perfumery, BHT is particularly useful for helping protect fragrance oils, essential oils and perfume concentrates from oxidative deterioration. Oxidation can gradually affect the odor, color and overall stability of fragrance materials, particularly those containing oxidation-sensitive natural oils and unsaturated compounds. BHT works by helping interrupt oxidation reactions within the formulation.

BHT is normally used at relatively low concentrations and is incorporated into the fragrance concentrate or suitable carrier during formulation. It is especially useful when working with materials that are prone to oxidation during storage. Because it has very little odor at appropriate formulation levels, it can provide antioxidant protection without significantly changing the intended fragrance character.

Odor Profile

• Very weak odor

• Slightly phenolic

• Faintly chemical

• Essentially odorless at low use levels

• Not used as a perfume note

Recommended Formulation Level (Educational guideline only)

• Trace: 0.01–0.05%

• General use: 0.05–0.20%

• High-impact accords: 0.20–0.50%

These are formulation guidelines for perfumers and are not IFRA limits.

Works Well With

• Essential Oils

• Citrus Oils

• Terpene-rich Materials

• Fragrance Concentrates

• Perfume Oils

• Carrier Oils

• Natural Extracts

• Aroma Chemicals

• Attar Concentrates

• Cosmetic Fragrance Bases

Common Applications

• Fine Fragrance

• Attars

• Perfume Oils

• Essential Oil Blends

• Body Care

• Soap

• Candles

• Home Fragrance

• Cosmetic Formulations

• Fragrance Concentrates

Perfumers' Tip

BHT is best considered a stability aid rather than an odor ingredient. It is particularly useful when preparing fragrance concentrates containing oxidation-sensitive materials such as citrus oils and other unsaturated fragrance ingredients.

Always evaluate the finished formulation after storage, as antioxidant performance depends on the composition, packaging and storage conditions. Use the appropriate supplier documentation and application-specific requirements when determining the final level.