When creating natural products, it's common to add fragrance using essential oils. While this approach is widely accepted, especially under COSMOS certification standards, it does have its challenges. Essential oils, though natural, come with high irritancy and allergen risks. Fortunately, there are alternative ways to naturally scent products while maintaining their "natural" status. Here are two effective options:
1. Hydrosols
Hydrosols, also known as distillates, floral waters, or aromatic waters, are a byproduct of the essential oil distillation process. During distillation, plant materials are heated to extract essential oils. The essential oil separates from the water and rises to the top, leaving behind a fragrant water-based liquid — the hydrosol. This aromatic water retains the plant’s essence but in a far more diluted form, typically containing only about 0.05% aromatic compounds.
Hydrosols are much gentler than essential oils, making them a safer choice for sensitive skin formulations. They can be used as part of the water phase in emulsions like lotions, creams, and facial tonics. Popular hydrosols include lavender, jasmine, peppermint, and chamomile, each offering a light, natural aroma to finished products.
2. Raw Cosmetic Butters
Another way to introduce natural fragrance into products is by using raw, unrefined cosmetic butters. Butters like cocoa, shea, and cupuaçu have their own unique scents that can subtly enhance a formulation.
● Cocoa Butter: High-quality, raw cocoa butter has a rich, sweet, chocolatey aroma that translates beautifully into skincare products.
● Shea Butter: Traditionally, raw shea butter has a distinct nutty fragrance. However, some modern batches have developed a licorice-like smell, which may not be appealing to everyone.
● Cupuaçu Butter: This butter offers a mild, sweet aroma that works well as a subtle fragrance option.
Using raw butters as a fragrance source results in a softly scented final product. Unlike essential oils, butters don't carry the same level of allergen risk and add beneficial moisturizing properties to formulations.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for ways to naturally scent emulsions and other products without using essential oils, hydrosols and raw butters are two excellent options. Hydrosols add a light, floral, or herbaceous scent, while raw butters offer rich, earthy, and sweet notes. Both approaches keep your products aligned with natural standards, reduce potential irritants, and allow for unique, naturally fragranced creations. Happy formulating!
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