Ambrox® DL (Firmenich) AC

AMBROX® DL from Firmenich is a synthetic fragrance known for its elegant amber note with a rich woody character. It is derived from ambrein, a natural compound found in ambergris, and is widely used in perfumery to add warmth, fullness and elegance to various fragrance compositions.

AMBROX® DL is highly valued for its powerful and long-lasting fragrance, making it a popular choice in both perfumes and functional products such as shampoos, shower gels and candles. It is usually used in lower dosages to achieve the best effects, but higher levels can be used to improve performance and durability.

Ambrox DL and Cetalox are closely related ambergris substitutes from Firmenich, but they’re not identical twins—more like siblings with distinct personalities.

Feature	Ambrox DL (Firmenich)	Cetalox (Firmenich)
CAS Number	3738-00-9	3738-00-9
Composition	~70% Cetalox + ~30% Cachalox (Firmenich captive)	Racemic Ambroxide (equal mix of enantiomers)
Odor Profile	Dry, woody, musky, elegant ambergris-like	Creamy, musky, skin-like amber warmth
Diffusion & Fixation	Stronger diffusion due to Cachalox; excellent fixative	Softer projection; long-lasting drydown
Eco Credentials	70–100% green chemistry	50–70% green chemistry
Texture/Form	Often solid or pasty; may need warming to use	Typically crystalline or powdery

🧪 Key Differences:

• Ambrox DL is a blend, not a pure molecule. It combines Cetalox with Cachalox, enhancing its diffusion and fixative power, making it ideal for boosting performance in complex fragrances.
• Cetalox is more linear and elegant, with a smoother musky-amber character. It’s often preferred for minimalist or skin-scent styles (like Not a Perfume by Juliette Has a Gun).

💡 Fun fact: Both are derived from sclareol, a natural compound from clary sage, making them sustainable alternatives to animal-derived ambergris.

Synonyms:
– Ambermor DL (IFF)
– Cetalox (Firmenich)
– Cetalox laevo (Firmenich)
– Synambran
– Fixambrene
– Dodecahydrotetramethyl naphthofuran
– Amber naphthofuran
– 1,5,5,9-tetramethyl-13-oxatricyclo(8.3.0.0.(4.9))tridecane