Make Your Own Fragrance Oil At Home

Creating your own fragrance oils at home is a fun and cost-effective way to have a signature scent that's unique to you. The process is simple and allows you to choose the ingredients, oils, quantities, recipes and tools to use.

Fragrance oils are made up of concentrated perfume particles suspended in an oil base. They can be a blend of synthetic aromas or natural essential oils diluted in carrier oils such as jojoba, almond, grapeseed or coconut oil.

To make your own fragrance oil, you'll need to decide on the type of fragrance you want to create (sweet, spicy, woody, fruity or herbal, for example) and then select essential oils that match this type. You'll need to include top, middle and base notes in your blend to create a well-rounded fragrance, but if you only have one category of notes at home, a strong base note will be enough.

Once you've chosen and blended your essential oils, you can dilute them with a carrier oil to make the fragrance gentler on the skin and reduce the risk of irritation. Then, add a drop of vitamin E oil to preserve the colour and extend the shelf life. Store your fragrance oil in an airtight container, away from heat, light and moisture.

Choosing the right essential oils

Scent Profile and Notes:

Each essential oil has a unique scent, ranging from floral and citrusy to woody and spicy. It's important to understand the different fragrance notes: top, middle, and base. Top notes are sharp and evaporate quickly, middle notes are warmer and more enveloping, while base notes are heavy and linger the longest. Examples of top notes include citrus scents like lemon and grapefruit, middle notes include lavender and jasmine, and base notes include cedarwood and vanilla.

Compatibility and Blending:

Some essential oils blend harmoniously, while others clash or overpower each other. It's important to experiment with small blending tests to determine which oils complement each other. You can start by mixing different oils in small quantities and gradually adjusting the ratios until you achieve a balanced and pleasing scent.

Quality and Purity:

When selecting essential oils, prioritize quality and purity. Opt for 100% natural essential oils that are free from additives or synthetic fragrances. High-quality oils will not only provide a superior scent but also ensure safety and reduce the risk of skin irritations or allergies. Work with reputable suppliers who can provide detailed information about their sourcing and extraction methods.

Preference and Experimenting:

Creating a fragrance oil is an art, so trust your senses and intuition when choosing oils that resonate with you. Experimentation and creativity are key. There are no hard and fast rules as long as you follow safety guidelines.

• Start with a few drops of each essential oil and gradually increase the quantity to find the right balance.
• Avoid using multiple strong notes in a single blend to prevent a chaotic or underwhelming fragrance.
• Always test your blends on a small scale before committing to a larger batch.
• Include essential oils from each note category (top, middle, and base) for a well-rounded fragrance.
• Document your recipes to make it easier to recreate or adjust your blends.
• Allow your fragrance oil blends to mature for at least 48 hours to a month to fully develop their aroma.
• Keep your workspace clean and organized, and always wear protective gear like gloves when handling essential oils.

Selecting a carrier oil

Carrier oils are an essential component of fragrance oils as they dilute the essential oils and function as a carrying agent. They are made from plant or vegetable sources and ensure that the fragrance oil is safe to apply to the skin. The carrier oil you select will depend on several factors, including the scent, your skin type, and the rate of absorption.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is derived from the jojoba plant and has a subtle nutty aroma. Its structure closely resembles that of sebum, or the skin's natural oil, making it highly compatible with various skin types. Jojoba oil is also highly stable, which helps the fragrance maintain its integrity over extended periods.

Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is naturally sourced from almonds and has a nutty-fruity aroma. It is lightweight, easily absorbed, and rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, antioxidants, and vitamins C and E, making it a nourishing option for the skin. Sweet almond oil is a good choice for individuals with sensitive skin.

Fractionated Coconut Oil

Fractionated coconut oil, unlike regular coconut oil, does not solidify at low temperatures and remains liquid. It has a sweet and energizing aroma and is versatile and easy to use. This oil ensures a non-oily finish, leaving your skin feeling fresh and fragrant.

Grapeseed Oil

Grapeseed oil is known for its neutral aroma and compatibility with a wide array of essential oils. Its lightweight nature allows for quick absorption, while its neutral scent ensures that the fragrance of the essential oils takes center stage. Grapeseed oil also contains antioxidant properties like omega-6 fatty acids and phenolics, offering benefits for the skin.

Apricot Kernel Oil

Apricot kernel oil is renowned for its silky texture and skin-nourishing properties, making it a popular choice for creating luxurious and long-lasting scents. Its moisturizing attributes ensure that the fragrance remains close to the skin, gradually revealing its nuances over time. This oil is ideal for crafting evening perfumes that leave a lasting impression.

Other Options

Other carrier oils that can be used include mango seed oil, rosehip seed oil, sunflower oil, kumkumadi oil, avocado oil, olive oil, sesame oil, and coconut oil. You can also mix a few carrier oils to create a custom blend, taking advantage of their unique properties and benefits.

Measuring and mixing

Prepare the Workstation:

Start by setting up a clean and clutter-free workspace. Sanitize the area to avoid any contamination. Keep all the necessary equipment and ingredients organised and easily accessible. Cover the workstation with newspaper or paper towels to catch any accidental spills.

Gather Ingredients and Tools:

For a 5ml fragrance oil, you will need:

• One storage bottle for the final fragrance oil
• Three essential oils of your choice: one base, one middle, and one top note
• Four droppers or pipettes for accurate measuring
• Carrier oil (such as jojoba, sweet almond, or fractionated coconut oil)

Measure and Mix:

• To the dark amber bottle, carefully add 80 drops (or 4ml) of carrier oil using a dropper or pipette.
• Using a different dropper, add 10 drops of your chosen base note essential oil.
• Add 5 drops of the middle-note essential oil and 5 drops of the top-note essential oil, using separate droppers for each.
• Stopper the bottle and shake it well to combine the oils.
• Label the bottle with a signature name and store it in a cool, dark place.

Blending Suggestions:

• It is recommended to let the blend mature for 48 hours to a month. This allows the oils to develop a better aroma.
• To make a perfume spray, add 2 tablespoons of distilled water to the blend.
• To improve the shelf life, add 5 drops of glycerine to the mixture.

Experiment and Create:

• Feel free to experiment with different essential oils and carrier oils to create unique blends.
• Keep a log of your formulas, including the types and amounts of oils used, as well as the dates and names of your creations.
• Start with small batches and gradually increase the quantities once you are happy with the scent.

Safety Precautions:

• Always wear gloves to protect your skin from direct contact with concentrated oil blends.
• Avoid any presence of water during blending as it can ruin the aromatic concoction.
• Keep the fragrance oils away from children and pets.

Storing and preserving

Once you've crafted your signature fragrance, it's important to store it correctly to preserve its quality and ensure it has a long shelf life. Here are some detailed tips for storing and preserving your fragrance oil:

• Bottling: Always store your fragrance oil in dark glass bottles, preferably amber or cobalt blue. Avoid clear glass or plastic bottles as they can cause the oil to oxidize and lose its fragrance. Dark glass bottles will protect the oil from light exposure and help maintain its quality.
• Tight-fitting lids: Ensure that your bottles have tight-fitting lids to prevent exposure to oxygen, which can cause the oil to deteriorate. Keep the lids screwed on tightly at all times.
• Storage location: Store your fragrance oil in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Sunlight and heat can cause the oil to spoil and lose its fragrance. A pantry or closet is a good option.
• Avoid temperature fluctuations: Try to store your oil in a place where the temperature is well-regulated. Extreme temperature changes can affect the quality of the oil.
• Refrigeration: If desired, you can store your fragrance oil in the refrigerator to keep it cool and protected from light and heat. However, this is not necessary, and some oils may solidify at refrigerator temperatures. If you do refrigerate your oil, allow it to warm up to room temperature before use.
• Avoid heat sources: Keep your fragrance oil away from heat sources such as stoves, fireplaces, or candles. Most essential oils are flammable, so proper storage will help prevent accidents.
• Labeling: Label your bottles with the date of creation and the expected shelf life. This will help you keep track of how long your oil will last and ensure you use it before it expires.
• Avoid partial bottles: If possible, transfer your fragrance oil to a smaller bottle when it is only partially full. This will reduce the amount of oxygen in the bottle, which can cause the oil to oxidize and deteriorate.
• Clean workspace: When handling and storing your fragrance oil, maintain a clean and sanitary workspace. Avoid contaminating the oil with unsterilized items such as fingers, cotton balls, or other materials.
• Safety: Remember that fragrance oils are flammable and should be kept away from children and pets. Store them in a safe location to prevent accidents.

By following these storage and preservation tips, you can ensure that your homemade fragrance oil maintains its quality and fragrance for an extended period.

Safety precautions

Making fragrance oils at home can be a fun and rewarding process, but it's important to take certain safety precautions to ensure a positive and safe experience. Here are some detailed safety guidelines to follow when creating your own fragrance oils:

Work Area Preparation:

• Create a clean and organised workspace. Cover the area with newspaper or paper towels to prevent spills and accidents.
• Keep all necessary tools and ingredients within reach, including measuring equipment, essential oils, carrier oils, and bottles.

Safety Gear:

• Wear disposable nitrile gloves to protect your skin from concentrated oil blends and prevent contamination.
• Consider wearing an apron or protective clothing to safeguard your body and clothing from potential stains or spills.

Oil Selection and Storage:

• Choose high-quality, pure essential oils that are free from additives or synthetic fragrances.
• Store essential oils and carrier oils in dark or opaque containers to avoid light exposure, which can degrade the oil's quality over time.
• Keep oils in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children and pets.

Blending Precautions:

• Always conduct a patch test before applying fragrance oils to your skin to ensure they don't cause irritation or allergies.
• Avoid using multiple strong notes in a single blend to prevent an overwhelming or chaotic fragrance.
• Use small quantities of oils and gradually build up the scent to find the right balance.
• Allow sufficient maturation time (at least 48 hours to a month) for the fragrance oil blend to develop and offer a better aroma.

Cleanliness and Cross-Contamination:

• Ensure all tools and equipment are clean and free from residue that may affect the final scent.
• Avoid cross-contamination by using separate droppers or pipettes for each oil and the carrier.

Skin Safety:

• Be cautious when applying fragrance oils to the skin. Some individuals may have sensitive skin or allergies.
• Perform a patch test before widespread application to ensure the oil blend is suitable for your skin.
• If irritation occurs, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional if needed.

Fire Safety:

• When using oil burners or candles, keep them away from flammable materials, children, and pets.
• Never leave a burning candle or oil burner unattended.

Eye Safety:

When using fragrance oils in spray form, avoid spraying directly into the eyes or towards the face.

Ingestion Hazard:

• Fragrance oils are strictly for external use only. Never ingest or apply near the eyes.
• Keep fragrance oils away from food items and beverages to prevent accidental ingestion.

Sensory Sensitivities:

Be mindful that some individuals may have sensory sensitivities to strong fragrances. Use fragrance oils in well-ventilated areas and adjust the amount used as needed.

Frequently asked questions