Guide: From Creation to the Bottle, How is a Perfume Born?
Creating a perfume is a subtle art that mixes creativity, science and passion. Discover the detailed stages of this fascinating process, from the first olfactory draft to the bottling of the final perfume.
1. Olfactory Design (Briefing)
It all starts with a detailed briefing. The perfumer meets with the client to discuss the vision, goals, and target audience of the perfume. This step is essential to understand the expectations and desired notes, whether freshness, sensuality, or elegance.
2. Selection of Raw Materials
The perfumer chooses from a wide range of raw materials: natural essential oils, plant extracts, resins, synthetic molecules, and fixatives. Each ingredient is selected for its unique qualities, contributing to the complexity of the fragrance.
3. Creation of Agreements
Accords are at the heart of creating a perfume. The perfumer mixes the raw materials to create olfactory harmonies. Top notes (light and volatile), middle notes (the soul of the perfume) and base notes (long-lasting and deep) are balanced to form the aromatic profile.
4. Tests (Batches)
At this stage, the perfumer carries out several tests, adjusting the proportions of the different ingredients. These “batches” are preliminary versions of the perfume which allow the formula to be gradually refined.
5. Olfactory Evaluation
Perfume versions are evaluated to sense their evolution over time. The perfumer tests how the perfume develops on the skin, which is crucial to ensuring a pleasant fragrance from start to finish.
6. Readjustment
Based on the evaluations, the perfumer may decide to modify the formula, adjusting the quantities or replacing certain components to perfect the scent.
7. Stabilization and Maturation
After readjustment, the perfume is left to mature. This rest period allows the different notes to integrate perfectly.
8. Filtration and Final Mixing
The perfume is filtered to remove any impurities, then diluted in an alcohol solution to reach the desired concentration, such as eau de toilette or eau de parfum.
9. Bottling
The perfume is then bottled in specially designed bottles, which reflect the essence and character of the fragrance. Every detail, from the shape of the bottle to the labeling, is designed to embolden the sensory experience.
10. Quality Control
Before launching the perfume on the market, rigorous tests are carried out to ensure its quality and stability, thus guaranteeing that each bottle sold meets consumers' expectations.
This meticulous process combines the art of perfumery with scientific rigor, resulting in fragrances that captivate and enchant. For those eager to delve deeper into the world of fragrance, our comprehensive guide offers valuable insights and expert advice for exploring every facet of this fascinating industry.