Perfume oils, a different sensory experience

Traditionally, alcohol has been the vehicle of choice in perfumery due to its ability to dissolve essences and project notes. However, a new wave of alcohol-free fragrances–perfume oils, water-based perfumes, or those using alternative technologies–is gaining ground.

More than a trend, these formulas offer new ways of experiencing fragrance: softer, more intimate, and aligned with a desire for well-being.

Alcohol-free perfumes: softer and gentler

Although alcohol has technical advantages, it also presents some limitations:

- Skin sensitivity: it can dry out or irritate the skin, especially sensitive skin.

- Short-lasting effect: its rapid evaporation gives immediate projection but also accelerates the fragrance's disappearance.

- Clean beauty trend: minimalist formulas are also gaining ground in perfumery.

- Cultural or religious factors: in some countries, the use of alcohol is avoided, which drives demand for alternatives.

What are perfumes oils?

Perfume oils use neutral vegetable oils as carriers for the fragrance. Common in the Middle East and natural perfumery, they are known for:

- Being gentle on the skin, ideal for dry or sensitive areas.

- Offering longer-lasting scent, though with less projection.

- Allowing sensual and discreet application, via roll-on or dropper.

- Being suitable for both skin and hair.

Applying a perfume oil is different from using a traditional fragrance: warm a small amount of oil between your palms and apply it to the body using circular motions.

How to apply a perfume oil

Applying a perfume oil is different from using a traditional fragrance. Warm a small amount of oil between your palms and apply it to the body using circular motions. On areas such as the neck, use your fingertips and massage gently.

**Standout picks** <br>

Niche and high-end perfume houses have also launched oil versions of their fragrances, expanding textures and usage possibilities:<br>

- Un Jardin sur le Nil, by Hermès: dry oil for body and hair with a soft, satiny, non-greasy finish of the classic green, woody scent.<br>
- Gypsy Water L'Huile Parfum by Byredo: a roll-on oil version that preserves the original blend of citrus, pepper, sandalwood, and vanilla.<br>
- Santal 33 Perfume Oil, by Le Labo: oil-based version of the iconic scent, also in roll-on, ideal for carrying and reapplying.<br>
- Chanel: includes 1957 L'Huile, a luminous, enveloping formula can be worn alone or layered to amplify the fragrance, and Gabrielle Chanel, available in bath, body, and hair formats.<br>
- Huile Céleste by Céline: elegant, minimalist fragrance for body and hair. <br>
- Oil Fiction, by Juliette Has a Gun: scented oil with a veil of woody notes. <br>
- Libre L'Eau Nue by YSL: luminous fragrance with Moroccan orange blossom extract.<br>

Standout picks

Niche and high-end perfume houses have also launched oil versions of their fragrances, expanding textures and usage possibilities:

- Un Jardin sur le Nil, by Hermès: dry oil for body and hair with a soft, satiny, non-greasy finish of the classic green, woody scent.

- Gypsy Water L'Huile Parfum by Byredo: a roll-on oil version that preserves the original blend of citrus, pepper, sandalwood, and vanilla.

- Santal 33 Perfume Oil, by Le Labo: oil-based version of the iconic scent, also in roll-on, ideal for carrying and reapplying.

- Chanel: includes 1957 L'Huile, a luminous, enveloping formula can be worn alone or layered to amplify the fragrance, and Gabrielle Chanel, available in bath, body, and hair formats.

- Huile Céleste by Céline: elegant, minimalist fragrance for body and hair.

- Oil Fiction, by Juliette Has a Gun: scented oil with a veil of woody notes.

- Libre L'Eau Nue by YSL: luminous fragrance with Moroccan orange blossom extract.

Water-based alcohol-free perfumes

We've already introduced you to water-based alcohol-free perfumes before. These emulsify fragrance concentrates in water–without ethanol–using technologies like microemulsions.

- Generation(s), by Ex Nihilo: the brand's first alcohol-free perfume, formulated with patented aqueous microemulsions that allow for high concentration and optimal skin tolerance. It retains 94% of its intensity after six hours.

- Peach Skin and Beach Skin, by Phlur: a duo of body mists evoking "the most sensual sensations of summer".

- Hair & Body Perfume Mist by Calvin Klein: a collection of moisturising perfumes with glycerine, suitable for body and hair, available in four versions: Cotton Musk, Nude Vanilla, Sheer Peach and Silky Coconut.

Alcohol-free perfumes don't replace traditional ones, but they do expand the palette of olfactory experiences. They offer different textures, application methods, and sensations for those seeking a more intimate and personalised connection with fragrance.