Understanding Fragrance Oil and Squalane Separation

You've observed that when mixing fragrance oil with Squalane (Olive), the mixture initially becomes cloudy and then separates over time, with distinct layers forming. This happens because fragrance oils are complex blends of various aromatic compounds, which can have different polarities. Squalane is a very stable, non-polar hydrocarbon oil.

Oils with different polarities do not always mix completely or remain mixed stably over time. Think of trying to mix oil and water – they separate because of their different natures. While fragrance oil and Squalane are both oils, the diverse components within the fragrance oil may not be fully compatible or soluble in the highly non-polar Squalane, leading to the observed separation.

How to Create a Stable Mixture

To prevent this separation and create a stable, homogeneous mixture of fragrance oil and Squalane, you typically need to use a solubilizer or an emulsifier. These ingredients help to bridge the gap between the different types of oils, allowing them to disperse evenly and remain mixed.

Since you are mixing two oil phases, you would look for a solubilizer or an oil-in-oil emulsifier suitable for fragrance oils. The specific type and amount needed will depend on the exact composition of your fragrance oil. Common types of solubilizers used in oil systems can help to keep the fragrance oil dispersed within the Squalane.

By incorporating a suitable solubilizer or emulsifier into your mixture, you should be able to achieve a clear, stable solution of fragrance oil in Squalane, preventing the separation you are currently experiencing.