Perfume Formulation: Concentration, Longevity, and Packaging Questions
Question
Hello!
I would like to ask about mixing Perfume.
- Fragrance Oil (COCO Mademoiselle) 30%
- Alcohol DEB96 70%
If I want 30ml of Perfume, do I use 9ml of Fragrance Oil and 21ml of DEB96? Is this calculation correct?
Will the ready-mixed Perfume have the same concentration as Eau de Parfum or last as long as Eau de Parfum (8-10 hours)? And does the mixed Perfume need to be macerated or left to sit before use?
If I don't have a digital scale, can using a Syringe provide a similar level of accuracy?
For packaging Perfume, does it need to be packaged in glass containers, or what types of bottles or plastic types can be used?
Thank you. I'm a beginner, so I have quite a few questions.
Answer
Subject: Perfume Concentration, Longevity, and Packaging
Hello! Thank you for your questions about making perfume.
- Calculation: Your calculation is correct. To make 30ml of perfume with a 30% fragrance oil concentration, you would use 9ml of fragrance oil (30% of 30ml) and 21ml of DEB96 alcohol (70% of 30ml).
- Concentration and Longevity: A 30% fragrance oil concentration is higher than the typical range for Eau de Parfum (15-20%) and falls into the range of Parfum (Extrait de Parfum), which is usually 20-40%. This concentration should provide excellent longevity, likely exceeding the typical 8-10 hours associated with EDP, but the exact duration can vary depending on the specific fragrance notes and individual skin chemistry.
- Maceration: Yes, it is highly recommended to let the mixed perfume "macerate" or sit for a period before use. This allows the different fragrance compounds to blend and mature properly, resulting in a more complex, stable, and harmonious scent. A common recommendation is to store the mixture in a cool, dark place for at least a few weeks, or even a few months, for optimal results.
- Measurement Accuracy: Syringes measure volume (ml), while digital scales measure weight (grams). While measuring by weight is generally considered more precise in perfumery, especially for small quantities or when dealing with ingredients of varying densities, using syringes for volume measurement is a common and acceptable method for home mixing, and they can provide reasonably accurate volume measurements. Your calculation is based on volume, which is appropriate when using syringes.
- Packaging: Glass bottles are the preferred and recommended packaging for perfume, especially for long-term storage. Glass is inert and does not react with the alcohol and fragrance oils. Some plastics can react with perfume ingredients, potentially degrading the plastic, altering the fragrance, or leaching chemicals. While some specific plastics might be used for short-term or sample packaging, glass is best for preserving the quality and integrity of your perfume.
I hope this helps with your perfume-making journey! Don't hesitate to ask if you have more questions.
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