Application of silicone oil in perfume: A double breakthrough in technological innovation and sensory experience
In the perfume industry, the application of silicone oil is moving from behind the scenes to the front of the stage, becoming a key ingredient to improve product performance and consumer experience.Its unique chemical structure and physical properties have opened up a new dimension for perfume formula design.


1. The chemical nature and classification of silicone oil
The essence of silicone oil is poly organosiloxane, which is prepared by hydrolysis, ring cracking and polymerization of dimethyl dichlorosilane.According to the degree of polymerization and the difference in side chain structure, it can be divided into linear polydimethylsiloxanes (such as DC-200 series) and cyclic volatile siloxanes (such as cyclopentamoldimethylsiloxane D5).The former is known for its high viscosity and strong film-forming properties, while the latter has become an ideal choice for perfume solvents due to its low surface tension and rapid volatility.


2. Core functions: long-lasting fragrance and skin feeling optimization
Molecular fragrance locking technology
Silicone oil wraps flavor molecules by forming a three-dimensional network film, which significantly reduces the volatilization rate.Experimental data show that perfumes with 5% cyclopentamethodimethylsiloxane can extend the fragrance retention time by 40%-60%.This "slow-release effect" is especially suitable for after-tone ingredients (such as ambergris and musk) to make the aroma level longer lasting.
Skin feeling revolution
The low surface tension of silicone oil (20-21 mN/m) gives the perfume a silky touch and eliminates the sticky feeling of traditional alcohol-based perfumes.In oil-water separation perfumes, silicone oil is used as the main body of the oil phase to form a stable emulsion with the aqueous phase, which is instantly spread into a uniform film when sprayed to improve the efficiency of aroma diffusion.
Formula compatibility
Silicone oil is highly compatible with ethanol, flavors, pigments and other ingredients, and can replace some mineral oils to reduce the viscosity of the formula.For example, silicone oil accounts for 56% of a patented formula, which still maintains transparency and fluidity, while reducing the amount of alcohol and reducing skin irritation.
3. Innovative application scenarios
Hair care perfume two-in-one product
The successful experience of silicone oil in hair care essential oils has been transplanted into the field of perfume.Perfume sprays containing polydimethylsiloxanol can form a hydrophobic film on the surface of the hair, which not only fixes the aroma but also prevents frizz, and realizes “one spray and two effects”.
Smart responsive perfume
Acrylate silicone oils (such as IOTA 2240) regulate aroma release through temperature-sensitive groups.Under the action of body temperature, changes in the structure of the silicone oil film accelerate the volatilization of flavors, causing the perfume to show dynamic fragrance changes at pulse points such as the neck and wrists.
Environmentally friendly formula development
The biodegradable rate of volatile siloxanes (such as D5) exceeds 90%, which meets the EU EC 1272/2008 standard.Compared with traditional phthalate plasticizers, silicone oil-based perfumes are easier to pass the REACH regulatory certification to meet the needs of green consumption.
4. Technical challenges and future directions
Although silicone oil has significant advantages, its application still needs to balance fragrance retention time with skin breathability.New silicone oil modification technologies (such as amino silicone oil and polyether silicone oil) are optimizing the membrane structure by introducing hydrophilic groups, while maintaining durability and improving comfort.With the combination of nano-encapsulation technology and silicone oil microcapsules, perfumes may achieve an intelligent breakthrough in “on-demand fragrance release”.


From the laboratory to the consumer market, silicone oils are redefining the sensory boundaries of perfumes.Its technical value is not only reflected in the improvement of product performance, but also in providing perfumers with a freer creative space-in the microscopic world of silicone oil, the aroma can break through physical limitations and deduct a more lasting artistic expression.