Iso E Super / آئیسو ای سپر

Iso E Super is a synthetic aroma chemical belonging to the cedryl family, first developed by IFF (International Flavors and Fragrances) in the early 1970s and patented in 1973. It is technically classified as OTNE — 7-acetyl-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-octahydro-1,1,3,3-tetramethylnaphthalene — and is sold commercially as a mixture of isomers. Since its introduction, it has become one of the most widely used synthetic fragrance ingredients in the world, prized for its abstract woody quality that bridges the gap between natural cedarwood and modern skin-scent perfumery.

What sets Iso E Super apart from other woody materials is its almost paradoxical olfactory behaviour. Many people can barely detect it at standard concentrations, yet its presence fundamentally transforms the character of a blend — adding warmth, roundness, and diffusion. At higher concentrations it reveals a rich cedar-and-spice facet. This dual nature has inspired an entire sub-genre of minimalist perfumery, most famously demonstrated by Escentric Molecules' Molecule 01, a fragrance built from nearly pure Iso E Super. Its synergistic relationship with skin chemistry means each person smells it differently, giving it a uniquely personal quality.

Bio Shop Pakistan supplies cosmetic-grade Iso E Super suitable for fine fragrance construction, attar blending, hair care formulations, body care products, and home fragrance applications including reed diffusers and candles.

Recommended Usage

Fine Fragrance

Iso E Super is most at home in alcoholic fine fragrance. It can be used from 1% as a booster and fixative, or pushed to 30–60% as a primary note in minimalist woody constructions. It rounds edges, adds diffusion, and extends longevity of top and heart notes significantly.

Attar and Oriental Blending

In attar and oriental composition, Iso E Super works beautifully beneath oud, rose, and sandalwood. It modernises heavy oriental bases without compromising their warmth. A 3–8% addition to a mukhallat base adds a contemporary woody transparency that differentiates the blend.

Hair Care and Functional Fragrance

Iso E Super performs well in shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in hair serums. It contributes a clean, woody freshness that survives rinsing at appropriate usage levels. Its substantivity on hair fibre is notably good for a synthetic woody material.

Cosmetics and Body Care

Usable in body lotions, creams, and deodorants within IFRA guidelines. Its low sillage works in favour of rinse-off and leave-on skin products. Skin sensitisation is possible at high concentrations, so stay within recommended limits.

Home Fragrance

Excellent in reed diffusers and wax melts where its slow, sustained diffusion suits the application. In candles, performance is moderate — hot throw is good but flash point must be observed. Iso E Super gives room fragrance a sophisticated, abstract woody warmth.

Fine Fragrance 

Iso E Super is most at home in alcoholic fine fragrance. It can be used from 1% as a booster and fixative, or pushed to 30–60% as a primary note in minimalist woody constructions. It rounds edges, adds diffusion, and extends longevity of top and heart notes significantly.

Attar and Oriental Blending 

In attar and oriental composition, Iso E Super works beautifully beneath oud, rose, and sandalwood. It modernises heavy oriental bases without compromising their warmth. A 3–8% addition to a mukhallat base adds a contemporary woody transparency that differentiates the blend.

Hair Care and Functional Fragrance

Iso E Super performs well in shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in hair serums. It contributes a clean, woody freshness that survives rinsing at appropriate usage levels. Its substantivity on hair fibre is notably good for a synthetic woody material.

Cosmetics and Body Care

Usable in body lotions, creams, and deodorants within IFRA guidelines. Its low sillage works in favour of rinse-off and leave-on skin products. Skin sensitisation is possible at high concentrations, so stay within recommended limits.

Home Fragrance

Excellent in reed diffusers and wax melts where its slow, sustained diffusion suits the application. In candles, performance is moderate — hot throw is good but flash point must be observed. Iso E Super gives room fragrance a sophisticated, abstract woody warmth.