How to Make Solid Perfume Using Beeswax and Essential Oils
- Astrid van Essen
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
If you love natural fragrance but want something more pocket-friendly than a traditional perfume, a homemade solid perfume might be just the thing.
It’s easy to make, free from synthetic chemicals, and ideal for anyone looking to blend their signature scent using essential oils. Whether after a floral balm, a citrus lift, or something warm and woody, this guide will walk you through how to make solid perfume at home, step by step.
What Is Solid Perfume?
Solid perfume is a balm-like fragrance made with beeswax, carrier oil and essential oils. It’s applied with your fingers to pulse points like your wrists, neck or behind the ears.
Because it doesn’t contain alcohol, solid perfume has a subtle, skin-close scent that develops gently over time. It’s perfect if you prefer a more natural, low-key fragrance experience.
Why Make Your Natural Solid Perfume?
Here are a few reasons people are swapping sprays for balms:
No synthetic chemicals or alcohol
Portable and leak-free — fits in your bag or pocket
Gentle on sensitive skin
Completely customisable — make it floral, citrusy, earthy, or seasonal
A slow-living, mindful project you can return to again and again
What You’ll Need
Making solid perfume at home is surprisingly simple. You’ll need:
Beeswax pellets (or an alternative like candelilla wax or soy wax)
Carrier oil – jojoba, sweet almond or fractionated coconut oil works well
Essential oils of your choice
Small tins or jars with lids (lip balm tins work perfectly)
Double boiler or heatproof bowl over a saucepan
Spoon or wooden stirrer
Optional: dried herbs or petals to decorate, labels for gifting
How to Make Solid Perfume: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Choose Your Scent Blend
Think about the mood or feeling you want your perfume to evoke. Use a mix of:
Top notes – fresh and bright (citrus, mint)
Middle notes – the heart of the blend (floral, herbal)
Base notes – grounding and long-lasting (woods, resins, spices)
You’ll want 15–20 drops of essential oil per 10ml of finished balm.
Step 2: Melt the Wax and Oil
Use a 1:2 ratio of wax to oil (e.g. 1 tablespoon beeswax and 2 tablespoons carrier oil). Melt them gently in a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Add Your Essential Oils
Take the mixture off the heat and quickly stir in your chosen essential oils. Be swift — it begins to set as it cools.
Step 4: Pour Into Containers and Let It Set
Pour your blend into tins or jars. Leave to cool and harden for 30–60 minutes before using.
3 Natural Solid Perfume Blends to Try
1. Calm & Collected
Grounding and restorative
Lavender – 6 drops
Clary Sage – 5 drops
Frankincense – 4 drops
2. Zest & Bloom
Bright and floral, perfect for spring
Bergamot – 5 drops
Rose Geranium – 6 drops
Lime – 4 drops
3. Wildwood Walk
Deep, earthy and warm
Cedarwood – 5 drops
Patchouli – 5 drops
Vetiver – 4 drops
Texture, Longevity and Storage Tips
Solid perfumes have a soft balm texture that melts into the skin
Scent is subtle, but can last 2–4 hours, depending on the blend
Reapply as needed — it’s easy to carry with you
Store in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or softening
Beeswax Alternatives for Solid Perfume
Not a fan of beeswax? Try these:
Candelilla wax – a vegan alternative with a firmer finish
Soy wax – softer and suitable for dehydrated skin
Carnauba wax – hard and glossy, suitable for warm climates
You can adjust the ratio slightly depending on which wax you use. For softer alternatives, start with 1 part wax to 3–4 parts oil.
FAQs: Natural Solid Perfume with Essential Oils
1. How long does homemade solid perfume last? Around 6 to 12 months, depending on how it’s stored. Keep away from heat and sunlight to extend shelf life.
2. Is solid perfume safe for sensitive skin? Yes — especially if you use gentle essential oils and a mild carrier oil like jojoba. Always do a patch test before regular use.
3. Can I make solid perfume without beeswax? Absolutely. Try candelilla wax (plant-based), soy wax, or carnauba wax. Each has a slightly different texture.
4. How strong is the scent? Solid perfume is more subtle than alcohol-based sprays, but you can reapply throughout the day. It also tends to stay closer to the skin, which many prefer.
5. Where should I apply solid perfume? Dab a small amount onto pulse points like wrists, neck, behind the ears, or even your collarbone. The warmth of your skin helps the scent unfold.
Final Thoughts: A Personal Way to Wear Scent
Making solid perfume is a lovely way to slow down and get creative. It’s practical, personal, and just a bit luxurious — whether you’re making it for yourself or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
The three blends above are a great place to start, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Your perfect scent might be just a few drops away.
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