Troubleshooting Cloudiness in Alcohol Perfume with 12H Fix™
Question
I am formulating an alcohol-based perfume using the following ingredients:
12H Fix™: 3%LipidSoft™ Lite: 6%- Perfume Oil
- Alcohol
I dissolved the 12H Fix™ in LipidSoft™ Lite and then added the mixture to the perfume oil and alcohol. However, the resulting solution is slightly cloudy. I would like to ask:
- Is my mixing method correct?
- Is
12H Fix™intended only for oil-based perfumes, or can it be used in alcohol-based formulations as well?
Answer
The method you used for 12H Fix™ is generally correct according to the recommended ratio (1 part fixative to 2 parts solvent). However, 12H Fix™ is suitable for both oil-based and alcohol-based perfumes. The slight cloudiness you encountered can occur due to several factors in alcohol-based formulas.
Analysis and Recommendations:
Mixing Sequence: To prevent cloudiness, ensure you follow this specific sequence:
- Heat 12H Fix™ with LipidSoft™ Lite at 60-70°C until the powder is completely dissolved and the liquid is clear.
- While still warm, mix this solution into your Perfume Oil first. Stir until homogeneous.
- Finally, gradually add this perfume-fixative mixture into the Alcohol.
- Note: If you add the fixative/solvent mixture directly into cold alcohol, the sudden temperature drop or the change in polarity can cause the fixative to precipitate, resulting in cloudiness.
Alcohol Concentration: Alcohol-based perfumes typically require high-purity alcohol (Ethyl Alcohol 95% or higher). If the alcohol contains too much water, it will significantly reduce the solubility of the oils and the fixative, leading to a cloudy or milky appearance.
Perfume Oil Compatibility: Some perfume oils contain components that do not dissolve well with certain fixatives or emollients like LipidSoft™ Lite. You may try reducing the amount of 12H Fix™ to 1-2% to see if the clarity improves.
Alternative Fixatives for Alcohol Perfumes:
If you prefer a fixative that is easier to use and less likely to cause cloudiness in alcohol-based formulas, you may consider:
- Musk Fix™: A liquid fixative that provides medium efficiency and is very easy to blend into alcohol perfumes without requiring high heat.
- Sugar Fix™: Another liquid option that helps the scent last longer and is generally easier to incorporate into various formulas.
In summary, 12H Fix™ is not limited to oil-based perfumes, but it requires careful temperature management and a specific mixing order when used in alcohol-based systems.
Related Products Mentioned
LipidSoft™ Lite (Isononyl Isononanoate)
Sugar Fix ™ (long lasting fragrance)
Musk Fix ™ (long lasting fragrance)