Diluting Cologne: Tips For Getting The Perfect Scent

Many people love the smell of their cologne but find it too strong. Diluting cologne can tone down its intensity and help release the scent from the oil. However, it is important to understand the nuances of perfume chemistry before attempting to dilute it. Diluting cologne is not the same as diluting a soup or stew.

Use perfumers alcohol

Perfumers alcohol is a great option for diluting cologne. It is formulated specifically for making perfumes and carries the fragrance without altering the scent profile. It is also ideal because it evaporates quickly.

When using perfumers alcohol, it is important to choose pure, undenatured ethanol specifically for use in perfume. Denatured ethanol is widely available and often cheaper, but it is usually mixed with methanol, which can cause adverse reactions for some people when applied to the skin.

If you are diluting a cologne, you can buy perfumers alcohol and decant 50-50 with the fragrance in a small decanter. Be sure to only produce a small amount of this mix so you can correct the percentage if needed.

Perfumers alcohol is also a good option for evaluating the odour profile of your materials when training your nose. It helps to dilute strong materials so you can get a fuller profile of the scent.

If you are creating an alcohol-based perfume spray, it makes sense to dilute your materials in perfumers alcohol. However, if you dilute in perfumers alcohol, you will not be able to add these dilutions to bases such as candles, creams, detergents, or oils.

Use a different container

Using a different container is the best way to dilute your cologne. Start by finding a mixing container, such as a spray bottle, that is large enough to hold your mixture. The biggest mistake people make when diluting cologne is using its original bottle, which can cause uneven mixing and make it tougher for the substances to combine.

The next step is to pour the diluent into your container. You can use perfumers alcohol, which is good for evaluating the odour profile of your cologne. Di Propylene Glycol (DPG) is also a popular choice as it is odourless, colourless, and tasteless. It is also great at breaking down and mixing oils, as well as preserving them. If you are set on using water, make sure it is distilled and pure. You will have to work harder at mixing as water doesn't go well with oils and alcohol.

Once you have added your diluent, add your cologne to the mixture. If you are using a spray bottle, you can spray your cologne into the container. Keep adding cologne until you get a lighter note. You can then pour the mixture into a spray bottle. If you diluted your cologne in its original bottle, you will need to find a different spray bottle as the added diluent will mean you now have more cologne.

Dilute with Dipropylene Glycol

When diluting cologne with dipropylene glycol (DPG), you're using a type of organic chemical compound that is commonly employed as a solvent in fragrances. DPG is the preferred choice for many perfumers as it is odourless, colourless, and has a high boiling point coupled with low toxicity. It is safe for use on skin and will not interfere with the scent of your fragrance.

DPG is particularly useful if you plan to use your cologne in bases other than alcohol, as it is soluble in water, alcohol, and some oils. It also has fixative properties, helping to prolong the life of your scent and slow the dispersal of fragrance molecules. The strength of your cologne can be adjusted by altering the ratio of DPG in the formula—the more DPG, the weaker the fragrance.

When diluting, it is important to use weight/weight dilutions rather than volume. The basic ratio for perfume is three parts essential oil to seven parts DPG, but this can be adjusted to suit your desired concentration. For instance, a 1:1 ratio of fragrance oil to DPG will allow you to stretch your cologne while maintaining its strength and perfume notes.

DPG is a synthetic compound, so it is not suitable for those creating strictly natural perfumes. However, for everyone else, it is a safe and effective way to dilute your cologne.

Dilute with distilled water

Diluting cologne with distilled water is a great way to reduce its strength if you find the scent too intense. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Gather the Right Ingredients and Tools

• Ensure you have distilled water, which is free from impurities and safe to use. Tap water is not suitable as it can contain germs and impurities that may affect the quality of your cologne.
• You will also need a small amount of alcohol, such as perfumer's alcohol, to act as a solvent and help combine the water and cologne.
• Gather a container, such as a beaker or a small decanter, that is large enough to hold your mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

• Start by pouring some distilled water and alcohol into your chosen container. The amount of alcohol needed is small, and the ratio of water to alcohol can be adjusted to your preference.
• Give the mixture a gentle whirl or stir to combine the two liquids.

Step 3: Add the Cologne

• Slowly add your cologne to the water and alcohol mixture. Go slowly and gradually to avoid adding too much at once.
• Continue adding the cologne until you achieve the desired scent strength. Keep in mind that you can always add more cologne if needed, but it's difficult to remove it once it's in the mixture.
• As you add the cologne, continue to mix the solution to ensure everything is combined well.

Step 4: Test and Adjust

• Once you've added enough cologne, give the mixture a final stir to ensure it's well combined.
• Test the diluted cologne by applying a small amount to your skin or a piece of fabric.
• If the scent is still too strong, you can add a small amount of distilled water to further dilute it. If it's too weak, add a small amount of cologne.
• Remember to mix the solution well after each adjustment.

Additional Tips:

• It's important to use distilled water, as tap water can contain impurities that may affect the quality of your cologne.
• Avoid using floral water or hydrolate instead of distilled water, as it can cloud up your cologne.
• Always mix your cologne with water and alcohol in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling strong fumes.
• Be cautious when handling alcohol, and avoid contact with eyes or ingestion.

Dilute with lotion

Diluting cologne with lotion is a great way to reduce its strength and make it more suitable for those with sensitive noses or for use in warmer climates. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Choose Your Lotion

Select an unscented lotion as your base. This ensures that the scent of the cologne remains intact and is not altered by the presence of another fragrance.

Step 2: Prepare the Cologne

If your cologne is new and you don't want to pour it directly into the lotion container, you can spray or pour a small amount into a separate jar or bowl. This gives you more control over the dilution process.

Step 3: Mix the Cologne and Lotion

Add a small amount of the cologne to the unscented lotion. Start with a few sprays or a teaspoon of cologne and mix it well with the lotion. You can always add more cologne if needed, but it's easier to add than to remove!

Step 4: Test the Fragrance

After mixing, apply a small amount of the diluted cologne to your skin and allow it to dry. This will give you an accurate idea of the fragrance's strength and how it develops over time.

Step 5: Adjust as Needed

If the cologne is still too strong, add more lotion to the mixture. If you feel it's too weak, add a little more cologne. Remember to mix thoroughly and test again after each adjustment.

Tips:

• When mixing, use a small spatula or a clean stick to stir the lotion and cologne together. This helps ensure that the two are combined evenly.
• Always test the diluted cologne on your skin before committing to a full application. This way, you can fine-tune the strength to your preference.
• If you're diluting a large amount of cologne, consider using a blender to ensure a smooth and even consistency.
• Store your diluted cologne in a cool, dry place to maintain its fragrance and prevent separation.

Diluting cologne with lotion is a simple way to customize your fragrance and create a strength that works for you. By following these steps, you can enjoy your favourite scent in a way that suits your preferences and sensitivity.

Frequently asked questions