Solid Perfume Formulation and Making Guide

Asked by: barbiebeemies On: April 25, 2017 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Could you please provide a formula and instructions for making solid perfume? I'm looking for a basic formula using ingredients like wax, carrier oil/butter, and fragrance oil, along with the steps for melting, mixing, and pouring to achieve a solid product with good fragrance longevity.

Answer

Solid Perfume Formula

A basic solid perfume formula consists of a wax, a carrier oil or butter, and a fragrance oil. The ratio can be adjusted to achieve the desired hardness and scent strength.

Here is a general guideline for the ratio by weight:

  • Wax: 1 part
  • Carrier Oil/Butter: 2-3 parts
  • Fragrance Oil: 5-15% of the total weight of wax and oil/butter (adjust to desired strength)

Ingredients

Based on the available products, here are some options for your solid perfume:

  • Wax: You can use Beeswax. Options include Natural White Beeswax (USA, Melting 62C, Deodorized), Yellow Beeswax, or Synthetic White Beeswax (Melting 62C). Beeswax provides the solid structure.
  • Carrier Oil/Butter: Shea Butter is an excellent choice as it also provides moisturizing benefits. Options include Shea Butter (Refined, Deodorised) or Shea Butter (Ultra Soft). These help dissolve the fragrance and create a smooth texture.
  • Fragrance Oil: Choose a fragrance oil suitable for cosmetic use. Examples found include Neroli Fragrance Oil, Jasmine Fragrance Oil, or Strawberry (Fragrance Oil). Select a high-quality fragrance oil for better longevity.

How to Make Solid Perfume

  1. Measure: Accurately weigh your wax and carrier oil/butter according to your chosen ratio.
  2. Melt: Gently heat the wax and carrier oil/butter together in a heat-resistant container placed in a water bath (double boiler) until fully melted and combined. Do not overheat. Beeswax typically melts around 60-75°C, and Shea Butter melts around 60-70°C.
  3. Cool Slightly: Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool slightly, but ensure it remains liquid.
  4. Add Fragrance: Weigh your fragrance oil and carefully stir it into the melted wax and oil/butter mixture. Stir gently to combine, avoiding creating air bubbles.
  5. Pour: Pour the liquid mixture into your desired containers (small tins, jars, or tubes).
  6. Cool and Set: Let the solid perfume cool completely at room temperature until it hardens. Avoid moving it while it is setting.

Tips for Long-Lasting Fragrance

  • Fragrance Oil Quality: Use a high-quality fragrance oil specifically designed for use in cosmetics or solid perfumes.
  • Concentration: Use a sufficient concentration of fragrance oil (5-15% is a good starting point, but you may need to test and adjust).
  • Fragrance Notes: Fragrances with strong base notes (like woods, resins, or vanilla) tend to last longer than those with only light top notes (like citrus or fresh herbs). Consider using a blend that includes base notes.
  • Application: Solid perfumes are typically applied directly to pulse points (wrists, neck, behind ears), where body heat helps to diffuse the scent.