Eau de Toilette4 to 8% composition blend to alcohol; incorporates a small percentage of distilled water or floral hydrosol; most common concentration in modern perfume making |
Enfleurageancient method of obtaining scent by repeatedly placing, removing and replacing fragrant botanical materials on sheets of glass that have been glazed with fat (typically cleaned animal fat) to produce a pomade (see pomade) |
Essencefragrant raw materials |
Essential OilAromatic volatile material obtained from botanicals through the process of distillation or cold-pressing/expression. Steam distillation: Usually indirect steam which is produced in a boiler. The steam goes through the plant material which can be resting on a grid or trays. The steam condenses and separates when cool into the water and the essential oil that floats on the top. Expression: Is reserved for citrus fruits such as lime, bergamot and orange. These are called cold pressed essential oils. |
Expressionmethod of obtaining an aromatic material (essential oil) through the use of presses which squeeze out the volatile oils of plant materials, typically citrus peels |
Extraithighest concentration of scent to diluent in perfume making; 15 to 30% composition blend to alcohol or diluent |
Fixativeraw materials or other natural materials which are used in very small amounts (1 to 3%) to help sustain a perfume, holding it down onto the skin so the scent lasts longer; includes distilled water, floral hydrosols, resin and wood tinctures, styrax benzoin and vegetable glycerin |
Flacon A bottle, often delicate in nature or beautifully decorated, used for storing perfumes... usually with a tight-fitting stopper or cap. From the Old French word flagon. |
Flat Notea note with no lift or body |
Floralflower based composition |