Inquiry about Solid Perfume Formulation

Question

Regarding the formulation of solid perfume:

1. If we use fixatives like `Flora Fix` or `Last Fix` in solid perfume to make the scent last longer, will it be effective? Which one is most suitable for solid perfume, considering that high heat is needed to melt the wax?
2. If we blend `Essential Oil` with synthetic fragrance, do we need a solvent? If so, which one? Or is no solvent needed?
3. After pouring the mixture into the container, should we quickly close the lid to prevent the scent from evaporating with the heat, or should we leave it open?

MySkinRecipes Expert · Accepted Answer

Regarding Solid Perfume Formulation

Thank you for your inquiry about making solid perfume. Here are the answers to your questions:

1. Using Fixatives in Solid Perfume

Fixatives like those you mentioned can help extend the longevity of the fragrance in solid perfume. While the solid base (wax) itself helps to slow down the evaporation of fragrance compared to liquid perfumes, adding a fixative can provide an extra boost to scent retention.
When choosing a fixative for solid perfume, it is important to consider its stability at the melting temperature of the wax you are using. Some fragrance materials and fixatives can degrade or lose their scent properties when exposed to high heat for prolonged periods.
Without specific technical data on Flora Fix and Last Fix regarding their heat stability and suitability for wax bases, it's difficult to recommend one over the other definitively. Generally, fixatives that are less volatile and more stable at higher temperatures would be more effective.

2. Blending Essential Oils and Synthetic Fragrances

Essential oils and synthetic fragrances are generally miscible with each other and can be blended directly.
When making solid perfume, you typically add the blended fragrance mixture to the melted wax. The melted wax acts as the carrier for the fragrance.
Therefore, you usually do not need a separate solvent to blend the essential oils and synthetic fragrances before adding them to the melted wax.

3. Closing the Lid After Pouring

After pouring the hot wax and fragrance mixture into the container, the fragrance will start to evaporate due to the heat.
To minimize the loss of fragrance, it is advisable to cover the containers as soon as possible after pouring. This helps to trap the volatile fragrance compounds as the mixture cools and solidifies.
However, be mindful of potential condensation if the lid is sealed too tightly while the mixture is very hot. Allowing it to cool slightly before a final tight seal might be beneficial, but covering it immediately (even loosely) is better than leaving it open.

We hope this information is helpful for your solid perfume making.