Seamus Hammond
Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, is not recommended for making natural perfumes. While it is safe to use on the skin, it has a strong smell, is harsh on the skin, and contains a high percentage of water, which can interfere with the final fragrance. It may also struggle to dissolve raw materials and essential oils. High-proof food-grade ethanol or perfumer's alcohol (a blend of alcohol and additives) are more suitable alternatives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can I make natural perfume with rubbing alcohol? | Yes, but it is not recommended. |
| Why is it not recommended? | Rubbing alcohol contains a high percentage of water, which can interfere with the perfume. |
| Are there better alternatives? | Yes, perfumer's alcohol, 100% natural grain alcohol, Everclear, vodka (at least 95% proof), or grape alcohol. |
| What type of alcohol should not be used? | Denatured alcohol, methanol, and ethanol (due to its scent). |
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What You'll Learn
Isopropyl alcohol is unsuitable for perfume
Rubbing alcohol, which contains the chemical isopropyl alcohol, is unsuitable for perfume-making for several reasons. Firstly, isopropyl alcohol has a strong, harsh smell that is unsuitable for perfumes. While this smell evaporates quickly, it can still affect the rest of the perfume's composition, leaving an unpleasant scent. Secondly, isopropyl alcohol is harsh on the skin, which can cause irritation. Thirdly, the high percentage of water in rubbing alcohol can interfere with the perfume's composition, potentially causing issues with dissolving raw materials.
Isopropyl alcohol is a good solvent, especially in high concentrations, and it is an excellent disinfectant for eliminating body odours. However, it is not suitable for perfumery due to the reasons mentioned above. Instead, grain alcohol, which is ethanol derived from the fermentation of grains and other plants, is a better option for creating perfumes.
While some people have experimented with using rubbing alcohol for perfume-making, reporting that it projects scents strongly, the majority of opinions advise against it due to its negative impact on the overall scent of the perfume and potential skin irritation.
In summary, isopropyl alcohol, commonly found in rubbing alcohol, is not recommended for perfume-making due to its strong smell, harshness on the skin, and interference with the perfume's composition. Alternative alcohols, such as grain alcohol or perfumer's alcohol, are more suitable options for creating pleasant and safe fragrances.
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High-proof food-grade ethanol is best for perfume
If you're looking to make a natural perfume, it's important to choose the right alcohol as your base. While rubbing alcohol may be easily accessible, it's not the best option for creating a pleasant fragrance. Here's why high-proof food-grade ethanol is the better choice for crafting your own perfumes:
Purity and Safety
High-proof food-grade ethanol, often referred to as perfumer's alcohol, is specifically designed for use in perfumes. It is a pure form of alcohol that ensures the safety of your final product. Rubbing alcohol, on the other hand, contains isopropyl alcohol, which has a strong smell and can be harsh on the skin. The presence of added water in rubbing alcohol can also interfere with your perfume's fragrance.
Solvent Properties
Ethanol acts as an effective solvent, helping to create a sprayable consistency for your perfume. It allows your fragrance to disperse well on the skin and evaporate nicely, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Rubbing alcohol, however, struggles in this department, as its high water content can make it difficult for your raw materials to dissolve properly.
Odor Profile
The high-proof nature of food-grade ethanol ensures that it doesn't contribute an overpowering odour to your perfume. While ethanol does have a scent, it is much milder than that of rubbing alcohol, which can negatively impact your perfume's top, middle, and base notes. With ethanol, you can better preserve the delicate fragrances of your essential oils.
Accessibility and Cost
High-proof food-grade ethanol is widely available and easy to obtain, making it a convenient choice for perfumers. While 190-proof grain alcohol is ideal, it can be expensive and challenging to find in smaller bottles. Vodka, a more accessible alternative, can also be used, but ensure it is high-proof, preferably above 95%.
Overall Fragrance Experience
By using high-proof food-grade ethanol, you can create a well-rounded fragrance experience. Ethanol's mild scent and effective solvent properties ensure that your chosen essential oils shine through. Additionally, ethanol's ability to evaporate nicely contributes to a pleasant sensory journey, making it a superior option compared to rubbing alcohol for crafting natural perfumes.
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Essential oils are toxic in high doses
When making perfume, it is important to note that not all types of alcohol are suitable. Rubbing alcohol, for instance, is not recommended for use in perfumery. Rubbing alcohol contains isopropyl alcohol, which has a strong smell and is harsh on the skin. It also contains added water, which can interfere with the perfume.
Essential oils are commonly used in perfumes due to their scent and history of medicinal use. However, it is important to exercise caution when using essential oils, as they are highly concentrated and potent. They can be toxic when ingested, and some oils, like wintergreen, can be deadly. Even in relatively low doses, certain oils like jasmine are toxic. Thyme and cinnamon oils are therapeutic in low doses but toxic in high doses.
Essential oils can also be poisonous if absorbed through the skin or if they come into contact with the eyes. Some essential oils, such as orange, lime, and lemon, can cause phototoxicity if applied before sun exposure. In addition, inhaling undiluted essential oils directly can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to coughing, nose and throat irritation, or shortness of breath. Individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD are particularly susceptible to these symptoms.
To ensure safe use, it is recommended to dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin. Patch testing is also advised to check for potential allergic reactions or skin sensitivities. When using essential oils for inhalation, proper dilution is crucial to avoid irritating the respiratory system.
The potency of essential oils should not be underestimated, and they should be treated with the same caution as medications or harmful materials. It is important to follow label instructions and discontinue use immediately if any adverse reactions occur.
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Natural perfumes are not necessarily better
While natural perfumes are often marketed as healthier and more environmentally friendly, they are not necessarily better than perfumes with synthetic ingredients.
Firstly, some essential oils used in natural perfumes can be toxic. For example, fragrances from many white flowers, such as jasmine, are toxic even in relatively low doses. Thyme and cinnamon oils are therapeutic in low doses but toxic in high doses.
Secondly, natural perfumes may not always meet your expectations in terms of scent. For example, 100% natural sandalwood oil has a soft scent with minimal sillage (the trail of scent left behind when you walk away) or projection (the static "scent bubble" noticed by people standing near you). However, people who say they love sandalwood perfumes may be referring to the combination of synthetic sandalwood aroma chemicals and other synthetic ingredients, such as musk, which has a stronger scent and better projection. Similarly, perfumes that fall into the aquatic or oceanic category often rely on aroma chemicals that cannot be found in nature, such as calone and hydroxycitronellal. While there are natural ingredients that can give a similar effect, such as seaweed absolute and ambergris, they are limited and may be difficult to source.
Thirdly, some natural perfumes may not be completely transparent about their ingredients, which can be a concern for those who prioritize knowing exactly what they are putting on their skin. While some brands, such as Abbott NYC, By Rosie Jane, Heretic, Henry Rose, and Maison Louis Marie, are transparent about their use of both natural and synthetic ingredients, other brands that claim to focus on natural and clean products, such as Non Gender Specific and Ellis Brooklyn, have not disclosed their fragrance ingredients.
Finally, synthetic perfume fragrances generally last longer, so you may need to reapply natural perfumes more often.
When it comes to choosing a perfume, consider your priorities in terms of scent, ingredient transparency, longevity, and potential health and environmental impacts. Whether you choose a natural or synthetic perfume, always do your research and opt for brands that provide ingredient transparency to make an informed decision.
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Rubbing alcohol is safe to use on skin
Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, is a common household item with a variety of uses. It is often used as a disinfectant for minor cuts and scrapes, as well as for cleaning and sterilizing surfaces and objects. While it has been used in the past to treat fevers, it is no longer recommended, especially for children, as it can be dangerous due to its ability to soak into the skin and cause alcohol poisoning.
That being said, when used appropriately, rubbing alcohol can be safe for skin application. Most manufacturers sell rubbing alcohol in 70% or 90% formulation strengths, with 70% being more suitable for skin use. It is important to note that rubbing alcohol can be drying to the skin, so it should not be applied to dry areas or open acne lesions, as it may cause a burning sensation. Additionally, it should be avoided after shaving due to the risk of stinging.
Rubbing alcohol has astringent properties, which can help tighten pores and leave the skin feeling refreshed. It is also useful as a quick deodorant substitute, as it can be sprayed directly onto the armpits. Some people even mix essential oils, such as lavender, with rubbing alcohol to create a soothing scent for the skin.
However, it is important to distinguish between rubbing alcohol and perfumer's alcohol, which is used as a base for perfumes. Rubbing alcohol contains isopropyl alcohol and water, while perfumer's alcohol typically contains ethanol. Isopropyl alcohol has a strong smell and can be harsh on the skin, making it unsuitable for perfumery. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid using rubbing alcohol when making natural perfumes, as it may interfere with the desired fragrance and be irritating to the skin.
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Frequently asked questions
No, it is not recommended to use rubbing alcohol in natural perfumes. Rubbing alcohol contains a high percentage of water, which can interfere with the final product. It also has a strong smell and is harsh on the skin.
Perfumers often use ethanol or high-proof grain alcohol, such as Everclear, as a base for perfumes. These types of alcohol are clear and odourless, and they help create a sprayable consistency.
Yes, you can create an oil-based natural perfume using neutral-smelling carrier oils with a long shelf life, such as jojoba oil or sweet almond oil. However, some essential oils are toxic and can cause skin irritation, so always do your research before blending.
