
Alcohol is a popular carrier agent for perfume oils, and many people choose to make their own perfumes at home. There are a variety of places where you can buy perfumer's alcohol, including online, at wholesalers, hardware stores, and drug stores. Some popular online vendors include Amazon, Vetiver Aromatics, and Perfumer's Apprentice. However, it is important to be cautious when buying perfumer's alcohol, as some products may contain toxic additives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Alcohol | Perfume-grade alcohol, SDA 40B, TSDA SD-40b, ethanol, 200-proof, 190-proof, 192-proof, 70%-91% ABV, Everclear |
| Additives | Bitrex, T-Butyl Alcohol, Cremophor RH 40, 1,3 Propanediol, Glucam P-20 |
| Volume | 16 oz, 1L, 1 gallon |
| Vendors | Vetiver Aromatics, Amazon, Perfumer's Apprentice, Makesy, Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, Lab Alley, local convenience stores |
| Shipping | Cannot be shipped internationally, to PO Boxes, or to Alaska and Hawaii |
| License Requirements | No additional license required for isopropyl alcohol |
| Price | $8 shipping, $54 for 1L at Lab Alley, $100+ with shipping |
| Hazards | Toxic additives, denaturants, flammable, hazardous materials |
| Uses | Perfume, cologne, aftershave, room sprays, diffuser oils, tinctures, hand sanitizer, disinfectant spray |
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What You'll Learn

Online: Amazon, Perfumer's Apprentice, Vetiver Aromatics, etc
Online: Amazon, Perfumers Apprentice, Vetiver Aromatics, etc.
One of the most popular online retailers, Amazon, offers a wide range of perfumers' alcohol products. You can find various options, including small bottles of 8 fl oz, priced at $12.99, as well as larger quantities with prices ranging up to $21.95. Amazon also provides free delivery and the convenience of comparing multiple sellers and products on a single platform.
For those seeking a more specialised experience, Perfumer's Apprentice is an excellent online destination. Founded in 2004, this website caters to perfumers of all skill levels by offering professional fragrance components. While their focus is on providing unique flavours for culinary creations, they also continuously expand their fragrance ingredients, ensuring premium products for their customers.
Vetiver Aromatics is another online store specialising in perfume-making kits, ingredients, and supplies. They offer a popular carrier agent, perfumer's alcohol, which is essential for creating sprayable perfumes. Their alcohol blend is SDA 40B, and it is denatured with Bitrix to make it unsuitable for consumption. Vetiver Aromatics can supply up to five gallons of perfumer's alcohol per year without a permit, and they also have a physical store in New Albany, Indiana, for in-person visits.
Additionally, Amazon features the Vetiver Aromatics Deluxe Perfume Kit, a highly-rated product for beginners in the art of perfumery. This kit includes a comprehensive set of tools, such as fractionated coconut oil, perfume tester strips, fragrance oils, and an introductory book to guide you through the process.
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In-person: Perfumer's Apprentice, Vetiver Aromatics, etc
If you are looking to buy perfume alcohol in person, there are a few options available to you. Firstly, you can visit specialist stores such as Perfumer's Apprentice and Vetiver Aromatics. Perfumer's Apprentice offers a ready-to-use perfume alcohol blend called "Base de Parfum", which is suitable for both beginners and professionals. It serves as an all-in-one base for alcohol spray perfumes and can be used alone or in combination with other perfumers' alcohol. However, it is important to note that their blend contains only 75% ethanol, with the remaining 25% consisting of other substances.
Vetiver Aromatics, located at 208 Pearl Street in New Albany, Indiana, is another option for in-person purchases. They provide a range of products for crafting fragrances, including perfumer's alcohol. Their alcohol blend is SDA 40B, a grain alcohol that is 200 proof. It is denatured with Bitrix to make it unpalatable for consumption. Vetiver Aromatics can supply up to five gallons of perfumer's alcohol per year without a permit. If you intend to purchase more than five gallons annually, you must legally obtain a permit from the Tax & Trade Bureau of the United States of America.
In addition to these specialist stores, you may be able to find perfume alcohol at convenience stores and certain major retailers. Isopropyl alcohol, also known as "rubbing alcohol," is commonly available at convenience stores across the United States without the need for a special license. It is typically affordable and easily accessible, but it has a sharp smell that may be noticeable in perfumes. While safe for temporary and localised skin application, isopropyl alcohol is not recommended for long-term or repeated use, such as daily perfume application.
Another option is 190-proof Everclear, which can be sourced locally in some areas. It serves as an acceptable alternative for perfume, cologne, and most body product recipes. However, it is important to note that the availability of high-proof spirits may vary by state, with some states imposing limits on the maximum allowable proof.
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Convenience stores: isopropyl alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol, commonly known as rubbing alcohol, is a versatile product that can be used for various purposes, including cleaning and first aid. It is widely available in many stores, including convenience stores.
When looking to purchase isopropyl alcohol from a convenience store, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is essential to check the availability in your area. While many convenience stores carry isopropyl alcohol, the selection may vary depending on your location. It is always a good idea to call ahead or check the store's website to confirm that they have it in stock.
Typically, isopropyl alcohol can be found in the health and beauty section of convenience stores. It is often stocked alongside other first aid supplies or cleaning products. If you are having trouble locating it, you can ask a store employee for assistance. They will be able to direct you to the correct aisle or section and provide information on the available brands and sizes.
The purity and concentration of isopropyl alcohol are important factors to consider when making a purchase. It is commonly available in concentrations ranging from 70% to 99%. For certain applications, such as cleaning electronic devices or ensuring optimal heat transfer, a higher concentration of 99% is recommended. Lower concentrations, such as 70%, are still effective for general cleaning and disinfecting purposes.
When purchasing isopropyl alcohol from a convenience store, it is important to read the label and follow any instructions or warnings provided by the manufacturer. Isopropyl alcohol is a potent substance and should be handled with care. It is flammable and should be kept away from open flames or heat sources. Additionally, it can be harmful if ingested, so it should be stored securely and out of the reach of children and pets.
By keeping these considerations in mind, you can conveniently purchase isopropyl alcohol from your local convenience store. It is a versatile product that can be used for various purposes, and having it readily available can be useful for a range of cleaning and disinfecting tasks around the home or office.
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Hardware stores: avoid due to toxic additives
When it comes to purchasing perfume alcohol, hardware stores may seem like a convenient option. However, it is essential to exercise caution and avoid buying perfume alcohol from these stores due to the presence of toxic additives.
Denatured alcohol, commonly found in hardware stores, is not suitable for creating homemade perfumes. While it may be labelled as "alcohol," it contains toxic additive denaturants, which make it unfit for human consumption and can be harmful to your skin and health. These additives are intentionally added to deter people from consuming the alcohol, allowing it to be sold without alcohol tax. However, this does not make it any less dangerous for other intended uses, such as perfumery.
The main additive in denatured alcohol is often denatonium benzoate, which is extremely bitter, making the alcohol unpalatable. Other additives may include methanol, which is known to be toxic and readily absorbed by the skin. Even in small amounts, methanol can be dangerous, potentially causing blindness or even death.
Some popular hardware stores, such as Home Depot, Lowes, or Walmart, may carry denatured alcohol. While these stores offer convenience and easy access, the potential risks associated with the toxic additives in their alcohol products are not worth the trade-off. It is crucial to prioritize your safety and choose alternative sources for perfume alcohol.
To ensure the quality and safety of your perfume alcohol, it is recommended to purchase from specialized suppliers or online retailers that specifically cater to perfumery needs. These sources are more likely to provide pure alcohol or cosmetic-grade Trade Specific Denatured Alcohol (TSDA), which is safe for use in perfumes. When buying online, carefully review the product descriptions and look for trusted manufacturers that specify their products are intended for perfumery.
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Drug stores
However, it is important to note that isopropyl alcohol has a sharp smell, and using it as a base for perfumes is not recommended due to its powerful odour, drying effects, and potential issues with continuous exposure. This type of alcohol is safe for quick, local application on the skin for medical purposes but not intended for long-term and repeated use, such as daily perfume application.
Additionally, when purchasing perfume alcohol from drug stores, it is essential to exercise discretion and carefully consider the product's origin, ingredients, and intended use. Some varieties of alcohol sold in drug stores, hardware stores, or wholesale stores, such as Home Depot, Lowe's, or Walmart, may contain toxic additive denaturants, making them unsuitable for use in homemade perfume recipes.
Therefore, while drug stores offer an accessible option for purchasing perfume alcohol, it is crucial to carefully select the type of alcohol and ensure it is safe and suitable for creating perfumes to avoid any potential health risks associated with toxic additives.
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Frequently asked questions
You can buy perfumer's alcohol online from websites such as Amazon, Vetiver Aromatics, Perfumer's Apprentice, Makesy, and Culinary Solvent.
Yes, you can buy perfumer's alcohol from Vetiver Aromatics' store in Indiana, or from hardware stores, drug stores, and convenience stores.
Perfumer's alcohol is the most popular carrier agent for perfume oils. It allows your perfume to be sprayed and, as it evaporates, it carries the scent away from you and allows for a stronger presence.
Alcohol intended for perfumery should be high-proof and denatured. Common types include SDA 40B, TSDA SD-40B, and ethanol.
Avoid toxic additives such as naphtha or mineral spirits, which are highly toxic and not intended for topical application. Also, be aware of regulations in your country or state regarding the purchase and transportation of alcohol.























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