Heidi Norton
Dissolving fragrance oil in water is a common practice for scenting on a mass scale. This process involves using surfactants to disperse lipophilic (oil-loving) ingredients in water. Solubilisers are a group of surfactants that can be used to dissolve fragrance oils, but they can only disperse light and small molecules such as essential oils. Emulsifiers, on the other hand, are another group of surfactants used to blend oils in water and are typically used in emulsions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Surfactants | Solubilisers, Emulsifiers |
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What You'll Learn
Surfactants
Emulsifiers, on the other hand, are a group of surfactants used to blend oils in water. They are typically used in emulsions. While both solubilisers and emulsifiers are surfactants and perform similar functions, they are very different. Solubilisers are more soluble in water and form micelles with smaller particle sizes, meaning they can make a clear or translucent solution.
When choosing a surfactant, it is important to consider the specific application and the desired characteristics of the final product. For example, if a clear solution is desired, a solubiliser may be a better choice due to its ability to form smaller particle sizes. Additionally, the safety of the surfactant is an important consideration, especially if the product will be inhaled or come into contact with the skin.
There are a variety of surfactants available on the market, and the specific choice will depend on the desired characteristics and application. Some common surfactants used in the fragrance industry include polysorbates, polyglyceryl esters, and sorbitan esters. It is always recommended to consult a specialist or conduct further research to determine the most suitable surfactant for your specific needs.
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Emulsifiers
When creating a water-soluble fragrance, you may want to experiment with different emulsifiers and solubilisers to achieve the desired clarity and solubility. For example, you can try using tapioca starch dissolved in glycerine plant-derived.
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Solubilisers
It is important to note that solubilisers can only disperse light and small molecules such as essential oils. They cannot be replaced by emulsifiers, which are used to blend oils in water, typically in emulsions.
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Glycerine
One source suggests that to reformulate with projection and longevity in mind, you should begin with 200ml of fragrance oil and add 5ml of glycerine and 20ml of DPG. You should then shake the mixture frequently over a 48-hour period to bond.
Another source suggests using tapioca starch dissolved in glycerine. You should use 1-2 tsp dissolved in 3 tablespoons of glycerine per 6 oz of finished liquid. Warm each to 140 F and mix with a stick blender.
It is also worth noting that specially denatured alcohol (SD alcohol) is the most common alcohol used to dissolve fragrance oil into water.
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Tapioca starch
Solubilisers and emulsifiers are surfactants that can be used to dissolve fragrance oil in water. Solubilisers are more soluble in water and can form a clear or translucent solution. However, they can only disperse light and small molecules such as essential oils.
To use tapioca starch to dissolve fragrance oil in water, you will need to create a slurry by mixing the starch with a small amount of cold water until it forms a smooth paste. The slurry should be free of lumps and have a consistency similar to pancake batter. Once the slurry is ready, you can slowly add it to the water, stirring continuously until it is fully incorporated.
It is important to note that the ratio of tapioca starch to water will depend on the desired consistency of your final product. For a thicker, more gel-like consistency, you will need to use more starch. On the other hand, if you want a thinner, more liquid consistency, you can use less starch.
Once the tapioca starch and water are combined, you can add your fragrance oil. The oil will be suspended in the gel-like substance created by the starch, preventing it from separating. You can then add this mixture to your final product, such as a lotion, soap, or bath bomb.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use solubilisers or emulsifiers, which are surfactants that disperse lipophilic (oil-loving) ingredients in water. Solubilisers can only disperse light and small molecules such as essential oils, while emulsifiers are typically used in emulsions.
While both are surfactants and perform similar functions, they are very different. Solubilisers are more soluble in water and form micelles with a smaller particle size, meaning they can make a clear or translucent solution.
Tapioca starch dissolved in glycerine is a plant-derived solubiliser.
Mineral oil, caprylic/capric triglycerides, isopropyl isostearate, and cetyl alcohol are all emulsifiers.
It depends on the type of oil you are using. If you are using a light and small molecule such as an essential oil, then a solubiliser will work. If you are using a heavier oil, then you will need an emulsifier.
