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Perfumery



To create a fragrance, essential oils and a good carrier oil, or alcohol, is required. There is also a commercial product called a perfume dilutent base which works very well. Good carrier oils are hazelnut and sweet almond. Hazelnut would be preferred for 'woody' fragrances such as sandalwood or rosewood. Jojoba oil is another good choice. 90 proof vodka is also a good carrier.

In general - to make a perfume you would use up to 20% essential oil to the carrier oil. To create cologne you would use up to 5% of essential oil to a pint of good quality witch hazel.

To experiment with creating your own personal fragrance from several different essential or fragrance oils, use cosmetic facial pads to drop a bit of this or that. Leave for 20 minutes, then check the results to see how the blend has 'cured'. This will give you an idea of what the fragrance will smell like if you are wearing it.

For more information on creating your own fragrance/s, there are several good books available. One I can recommend is The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy by Valerie Ann Worwood.



Fragrance Gel

1/8 oz. grated beeswax
1/2 tbsp non-petroleum jelly
3 to whatever drops of essential or fragrance oil is desired

NOTE: If you wish to avoid the natural fragrance of beeswax, you can simply combine non- petroleum jelly and the essential oils by melting the jelly first and adding the essential oils when it has cooled slightly.

In the top of a double boiler, over barely simmering water, melt the beeswax and jelly. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly, then begin adding the drops of oil while stirring well. When the fragrance suits you, pour into a small suitable container (lip balm tubs are a good size) and allow to harden.




©1997 Ernestina Parziale CH