Perfumes used to intimidate me. Walking through any store’s fragrance aisle had me overwhelmed in minutes and after sniffing a few possibilities, I’d give up as the headache hit and they all started smelling the same. But once I discovered that I could make my own fragrances, things changed. A DIY perfume means that I can choose my own scent combination, adjust the intensity of the fragrance, and even experiment with the look and feel. No more intimidation, just fun! Case in point: this sweet and airy sandalwood vanilla solid perfume, made to offer a little uplifting scent anytime, anywhere, no headaches necessary.
A Calming and Moisturizing Alternative
If you are sensitive or even allergic to fragrances, most perfumes are simply a no-go. But this solid perfume is lightly scented with simple ingredients that you can adjust to your level of sensitivity. As an aromatherapy duo, the sweet sandalwood and warm vanilla offer a naturally calming, anxiety-easing aroma. Just the thing to carry with you throughout the day!
The added bonus is that it is also great for your skin. Regular perfumes often contain alcohol and other skin-aggravating ingredients, but this DIY gem relies on a touch of light almond oil and the ever-silky shea butter for it’s delivery. So instead of drying and irritating your skin, it moisturizes and soothes, all while making you smell delightful, of course.
How To Make Your Solid Perfume
Before you start making your perfume, you’ll want to pick the perfect containers. Just about any small tin or jar would do, but I used chapstick tubes so the perfume would be easy to apply and easy to carry. No matter what containers you spring for, have them nearby so you can fill them up as soon as your perfume is ready to pour.
Okay let’s do this. Begin by adding the almond oil, shea butter and beeswax to a double boiler. If you don’t have one, you can make do by filling a saucepan with several inches of water and placing a heat safe bowl on top. Try to use a bowl that has a pour spout so you can easily transfer your perfume to the containers (like a glass liquid measuring cup).
Bring the water in the saucepan to a simmer and slowly melt your almond oil + shea butter + beeswax combination over a medium heat. When they are completely melted, pull the bowl off the heat, add the sandalwood and vanilla oils, and mix thoroughly.
Now it’s time pour your mixture into your containers. Fill them up to the top with the melted perfume then allow them to harden completely. It doesn’t take long! Once they’re finished, toss one in your purse to use on the go. These lovelies will stay good for 8-9 months and make for great gifts!
Note: This recipe uses sandalwood and vanilla oils that have been already diluted in jojoba oil. If you would like to substitute another blend of essential oils that are more pure, be sure to adjust the amount accordingly.
DIY Sandalwood Vanilla Solid Perfume
Equipment
- Double boiler
- Lip balm containers
Materials
- 1 teaspoon almond oil
- 1 ½ teaspoons shea butter
- 1 teaspoon beeswax pastilles or shavings
- 20-25 drops sandalwood oil diluted in a carrier oil, or more for a stronger scent
- 30-35 drops vanilla oil diluted in a carrier, or more for a stronger scent
Instructions
- Add the almond oil, shea butter and beeswax to a double boiler.
- Heat over medium, then pull the double boiler off the stovetop when the mixture is completely melted.
- Add the sandalwood and vanilla oils and mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into desired containers and let cool until completely hardened.
This recipe sounds divine! I cannot wait to try it.