How to Use the Perfume Dilution Concentration Calculator
The most important step in making perfume at home is getting the ratio of essential oil (fragrance), alcohol, and water right. This ratio determines the concentration grade — EDC, EDT, EDP, or Parfum — which in turn affects how long the scent lasts and how strong it is. This calculator takes your target concentration type and total batch volume, then calculates exactly how much essential oil, perfumer's alcohol, and distilled water you need.
Concentration type generally falls into four tiers: Eau de Cologne (EDC, ~4%), Eau de Toilette (EDT, ~12%), Eau de Parfum (EDP, ~20%), and Parfum (~30%). Higher concentrations mean a larger share of essential oil and a smaller share of alcohol and water. The remainder after the oil is made up mostly of perfumer's alcohol with a small amount of distilled water — the alcohol is what dissolves the oil evenly into solution.
Rather than using your perfume right away, letting it rest (macerate) in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks allows the scent to blend and soften into a more harmonious result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, yes. Higher essential oil ratios like EDP or Parfum tend to last longer on skin, though volatility of the raw materials and storage conditions can also affect longevity.
You can try, but oil doesn't mix well with water and tends to separate into layers. Perfumer's alcohol (ethanol) is needed to dissolve the oil evenly for a stable, well-blended perfume.