Advice for Your Alcohol-Based Fragrance Formula

Your alcohol-based formula using fragrance oil, 200 proof alcohol, Flora Fix, and DI water is a good starting point for creating a fragrance product. Here are answers to your questions and some additional recommendations:

• Additional Ingredients for Longevity: You are already using Flora Fix, which is a fixative designed to help the scent last longer and reduce alcohol odor. This is a key ingredient for improving longevity. Dipropylene glycol (DPG) is another common solvent and fixative used in alcohol-based fragrances that also helps extend scent duration and improve solubility of the fragrance oil. While Flora Fix may be sufficient on its own, adding a small amount of DPG could potentially further enhance the longevity or improve the clarity of the solution, depending on the specific fragrance oil used. It is not strictly necessary to add other fixatives if Flora Fix is performing well for your chosen fragrance.

• Preservatives and Shelf Life: With a high concentration of 200 proof alcohol, your formula is likely self-preserving against microbial contamination. Alcohol at high percentages inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi. Therefore, an additional preservative is generally not needed for microbial stability in such a formula. The shelf life will primarily depend on the stability of the fragrance oil itself and other ingredients like Flora Fix, which can degrade over time due, for example, to oxidation. Stored properly away from light and heat, the product can typically last for several years.

• Maceration Time: After mixing, it is highly recommended to let the mixture sit (macerate) for a period. This allows the fragrance compounds to fully integrate and the scent profile to develop and mature. A typical maceration period is at least 2-4 weeks in a cool, dark place, but longer periods can sometimes result in a smoother, more complex fragrance. You can test the scent periodically to determine when you are satisfied with the result.

• Pre-mixing Components: Yes, you can definitely mix the Alcohol, Flora Fix, and DI water together first and then add the fragrance oil according to your desired ratio when you are ready to use the base. This is a standard and convenient way to prepare the solvent base.

• Claiming as Body Spray: Yes, based on the typical composition and the function of ingredients like Flora Fix (which has recommended usage rates for body spray formulas), this type of alcohol-based fragrance can be formulated and used as a body spray. Since you also intend to use it as a fabric spray, be mindful that high alcohol content and certain fragrance oils might not be suitable for all types of delicate fabrics. It's always a good idea to test on an inconspicuous area first.

By using Flora Fix, you are already taking a good step towards improving the longevity of your fragrance. Proper maceration will also significantly help in developing the final scent quality.