Solid perfume is a hit, but is it a skin hazard?

If there's one industry that constantly reinvents itself and introduces fresh products at lightning speed, it's the beauty industry. Several brands are now leaning towards cruelty-free, sustainable, and innovative offerings.

Among the plethora of beauty products, one generating a significant buzz lately is solid perfume. While it's not exactly a new invention, recent variations have propelled it into the spotlight.

Brands are marketing solid perfumes as a plant-based, natural alternative to traditional mists and perfumes, with many highlighting eco-friendly, reusable, spill-free, and easy-to-carry packaging. Additionally, it is being claimed that this product is enriched with skincare benefits.

However, the question remains—are solid perfumes safe for your skin, or could they pose a risk? Let's find out from the experts.

What?

"Solid perfumes are compact, wax-based fragrances that offer unique benefits and considerations compared to traditional mists and perfumes. They are concentrated fragrances blended into a wax or oil base, typically free from alcohol, and have a similar consistency to a balm," Dr Sonali Kohli, consultant, dermatology, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, tells India Today.

Dr Kohli adds that typical perfumes are alcohol-based and are sprayed onto the skin or clothes. The alcohol helps disperse the fragrance, creating a scent trail as it evaporates.

On the other hand, solid perfumes are made by melting waxes or butters and blending them with fragrance oils. They are applied directly to the skin, usually on pulse points like the wrists and neck.

"Solid perfumes offer a charming and practical alternative to traditional perfumes. Their gentle, alcohol-free formulation makes them suitable for a wide range of ages and skin types. However, as with any skin-related product, it’s essential to be mindful of individual sensitivities and preferences," says Dr Kohli.

Meanwhile, Dr Shareefa Chause, dermatologist, cosmetologist, and founder of Shareefa's Skin Care Clinic, Mumbai, mentions that solid perfumes are gaining popularity as they are handy, last for a longer duration without the hassle of reapplication, and are generally less expensive than traditional perfumes.

"Their sustainable packaging and natural ingredients appeal to consumers seeking environmentally friendly products. The rise of minimalist and travel-friendly beauty products also contributes to their growing demand," adds Dr Sanjeev Gulati, department of dermatology, Sharda Hospital, NCR.

How do solid perfumes work?

Dr Gulati explains that solid perfumes work by using the warmth of your skin to activate and release their fragrance.

"Made with a blend of waxes, oils, and scented essential oils, the perfume melts slightly when applied to pulse points, such as the wrists, neck, or behind the ears, where the body naturally generates more heat. This heat helps diffuse the fragrance slowly throughout the day, offering a more intimate and subtle scent compared to liquid perfumes," he says.

The natural oils in the solid perfume also help moisturise the skin, making the scent last longer without the quick evaporation that can occur with alcohol-based perfumes.

Solid perfumes can last longer than mists but may not always be as long-lasting as regular alcohol-based perfumes. Since they are made with oils and waxes, they release fragrance more slowly, giving a subtle and steady scent over time. This makes them great for people who prefer a softer, less overpowering fragrance.

However, traditional liquid perfumes, especially those with a higher concentration of essential oils, tend to project more strongly and for longer. Mists, on the other hand, are usually lighter and fade faster than both solid and regular perfumes.

A risky bet

Solid perfumes can be a convenient choice for fragrance, but they may cause skin reactions in certain individuals. Generally, they tend to stay close to the skin because their base is often waxy, which can limit their projection.

However, experts feel that for people with sensitive skin, solid perfumes that use more fragrance materials might not be the best choice.

Dr Kohli adds that it's essential to be aware of potential skin hazards associated with solid perfume use:

• Allergic contact dermatitis: Solid perfumes can contain various fragrance compounds and essential oils, which may trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.
• Irritant contact dermatitis: Even if you are not allergic, certain ingredients in solid perfumes can cause irritant contact dermatitis.
• Photosensitivity: Some ingredients in solid perfumes, particularly certain essential oils, can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
• Pore clogging: The wax used in making the perfume can block pores and worsen acne.

"To minimise potential issues, it is advisable to apply a small amount of moisturiser on the skin before use or to test the product on a small area first. While solid perfumes can be safe for many, monitoring skin reactions is essential to ensure comfort and safety," adds Dr Gulati.

Further, Dr Chause states, "These perfumes contain fragrance and are not recommended, especially for those with sensitive skin. It is better to use traditional perfumes that are sprayed on clothes to minimise the risk of skin allergies."

Is it a DIY hack?

According to Dr Gulati, homemade solid perfumes can indeed be effective and serve as a viable alternative to commercial products.

"Making solid perfumes at home provides the opportunity to customise scents using natural ingredients, which many users prefer for health and scent preference reasons. DIY recipes often include simple components like beeswax, carrier oils, and essential oils, promoting a more personalised sensory experience," he adds.

Here's an easy DIY solid perfume recipe by Dr Kohli:

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp beeswax
• 2 tbsp carrier oil (such as jojoba oil, almond oil, or coconut oil)
• 10-20 drops of essential oils (your choice of scents)

Equipment

• Double boiler (for melting the beeswax and oil)
• Mixing stick (wooden stick or spoon)
• Containers (small tins or jars for storing the perfume)

Method

• In a double boiler, gently heat the beeswax and carrier oil over low heat. Stir continuously until the beeswax is completely melted into the oil, forming a smooth mixture.
• Once the beeswax and oil blend is fully melted, remove the mixture from heat. Add 10-20 drops of your chosen essential oils, depending on how strong you want the fragrance to be. Stir well to ensure the oils are evenly distributed.
• Quickly pour the liquid perfume mixture into small tins or jars before it cools and hardens. Be cautious, as the mixture will be hot.
• Allow the perfume to cool and solidify at room temperature. This should take about 30 minutes to an hour.
• Once solid, your DIY solid perfume is ready to use. Simply rub your finger over the surface and apply it to pulse points. Store in a cool, dry place to preserve the scent and prevent melting.

Before adding to cart or trying a DIY hack...

• Solid perfume works best when applied on pulse points. The warmth from these places prolongs the life of the aroma.
• It is vital to check the ingredients carefully and avoid any allergens.
• You must also do a patch test before applying the product to avoid any serious reactions.
• Remember not to apply too much at once because an excessive amount of the waxy texture may feel heavy on the skin.

Source: India Today