4.1 Common Solvents: Ethanol, DPG, IPM, & MCT Oil in Perfumery

Introduction: The Role of Solvents in Perfumery

Solvents are essential in perfumery because they help dissolve and carry fragrance ingredients, ensuring proper diffusion, longevity, and skin compatibility. They affect:
✔ The strength of the fragrance.
✔ The evaporation rate of aroma compounds.
✔ The texture and skin feel of the final product.

Different solvents have unique characteristics, and choosing the right one depends on whether the perfume is a spray, oil-based roll-on, or solid perfume.

1️⃣ Ethanol (Alcohol-Based Solvent)

What is Ethanol?

Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) is the most common solvent used in perfumes. It is a volatile, colorless liquid that quickly evaporates, allowing the fragrance to disperse in the air.

Why is Ethanol Used?

✔ Fast Evaporation: Helps the fragrance project better.
✔ Solubility: Mixes well with essential oils and synthetic aroma compounds.
✔ Non-Greasy Feel: Does not leave an oily residue on the skin.
✔ Cooling Effect: Creates a refreshing sensation when applied.

Concentration Levels in Perfumes

• Eau de Cologne (EDC): 2-5% fragrance in 70-80% ethanol.
• Eau de Toilette (EDT): 5-15% fragrance in 75-85% ethanol.
• Eau de Parfum (EDP): 15-20% fragrance in 80-90% ethanol.
• Parfum/Extrait: 20-40% fragrance in 90-95% ethanol.

Practical Example: Making an Ethanol-Based Perfume

Ingredients:

✔ 10ml Ethanol (95%)
✔ 2ml Fragrance Oil Blend (e.g., Citrus + Floral notes)
✔ 0.2ml Fixative (e.g., Iso E Super or Benzoin)
✔ 0.1ml Distilled Water (optional for softening scent)

Steps:

1️⃣ Mix fragrance oil and fixative in ethanol.
2️⃣ Shake well and let the mixture mature for 48 hours to 2 weeks.
3️⃣ Filter and pour into a perfume spray bottle.
4️⃣ Test the scent on a blotter and observe its longevity.

✔ Result: A light, refreshing spray perfume that lasts several hours.

2️⃣ Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) – A Stable & Non-Volatile Solvent

What is DPG?

Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) is a colorless, odorless liquid that acts as a non-volatile carrier solvent. It is widely used in perfume oils, incense, and body mists.

Why is DPG Used?

✔ Slow Evaporation: Helps fragrance last longer.
✔ Improves Stability: Prevents oils from separating.
✔ Skin-Friendly: Non-irritating, commonly used in oil-based roll-ons.
✔ Blends Well: Works with essential oils and synthetic aroma compounds.

Where is DPG Used?

• Perfume roll-ons and oil-based fragrances.
• Incense sticks for long-lasting aroma.
• Home fragrances and room sprays (to prevent fast evaporation).

Practical Example: Making a DPG-Based Roll-On Perfume

Ingredients:

✔ 10ml DPG
✔ 3ml Fragrance Oil Blend (e.g., Fruity + Musky notes)
✔ 0.5ml Fixative (e.g., Ambroxan or Labdanum)

Steps:

1️⃣ Mix fragrance oil and fixative with DPG.
2️⃣ Stir thoroughly and let it rest for 24–48 hours.
3️⃣ Pour into a roll-on bottle.
4️⃣ Apply on skin and test longevity.

✔ Result: A skin-friendly, long-lasting perfume oil without alcohol.

3️⃣ Isopropyl Myristate (IPM) – A Lightweight, Non-Greasy Solvent

What is IPM?

Isopropyl Myristate (IPM) is an oily solvent that helps reduce the greasy feel of perfume oils. It is commonly used in body sprays, roll-ons, and creams.

Why is IPM Used?

✔ Fast Absorption: Feels light and non-greasy on the skin.
✔ Softens Texture: Reduces the thickness of fragrance oils.
✔ Enhances Diffusion: Helps fragrance project better.
✔ Works Well with Oils: Blends smoothly with essential and synthetic oils.

Where is IPM Used?

• Dry oil perfumes (lightweight, non-greasy feel).
• Body sprays (non-alcoholic mist perfumes).
• Hair perfumes (light application without oiliness).

Practical Example: Making a Dry Oil Perfume with IPM

Ingredients:

✔ 10ml IPM
✔ 3ml Fragrance Oil Blend (e.g., Floral + Woody notes)
✔ 0.5ml Fixative (e.g., Oakmoss or Musk Ketone)

Steps:

1️⃣ Blend all ingredients together.
2️⃣ Let it sit for 48 hours to allow the scent to develop.
3️⃣ Pour into a spray bottle or dropper bottle.
4️⃣ Apply lightly on the skin or hair.

✔ Result: A lightweight, non-greasy perfume oil that absorbs quickly.

4️⃣ Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCT Oil) – A Natural, Skin-Friendly Carrier

What is MCT Oil?

MCT (Medium-Chain Triglycerides) Oil is a natural, odorless oil derived from coconut oil. It is a popular choice for natural and skin-safe perfumes.

Why is MCT Oil Used?

✔ Skin-Friendly: Non-irritating, suitable for sensitive skin.
✔ Non-Greasy: Absorbs well without feeling heavy.
✔ Long-Lasting Carrier: Helps perfume stick to the skin longer.
✔ Natural Alternative to Synthetics: Ideal for organic perfumery.

Where is MCT Oil Used?

• Natural perfumes (without alcohol or synthetic carriers).
• Aromatherapy oils (diluting essential oils for direct skin application).
• Luxury body oils (fragrance-infused skincare products).

Practical Example: Making an MCT Oil-Based Natural Perfume

Ingredients:

✔ 10ml MCT Oil
✔ 3ml Essential Oil Blend (e.g., Lavender + Vanilla + Citrus)
✔ 0.5ml Fixative (e.g., Myrrh or Vetiver)

Steps:

1️⃣ Blend essential oils and fixative with MCT oil.
2️⃣ Store in a dark place for 48 hours to mature.
3️⃣ Pour into a dropper bottle or roll-on applicator.
4️⃣ Apply on pulse points and observe longevity.

✔ Result: A natural, long-lasting perfume oil with skin benefits.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Solvent

🎯 Next Step: Experiment with different solvents to create a perfume that suits your style and longevity preference! 👃✨