IFF has launched AQUASCENT, a vegan water-based fragrance carrier designed to reduce reliance on ethanol while supporting high fragrance concentrations and more efficient shipping.
NEW YORK: International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) has introduced AQUASCENT, a new water-based carrier technology for fine fragrances that aims to combine high scent performance with formulations containing no intentionally added ethanol, preservatives or silicone.
The technology is made with biodegradable materials and can support fragrance loads ranging from 10 per cent to as much as 25 per cent, compared with up to 15 per cent for most comparable water-based systems, according to IFF.
Solving the clarity challenge
One difficulty with water-based perfumes is that fragrance oils do not naturally mix easily with water and can make formulations appear cloudy.
IFF says AQUASCENT addresses this challenge by maintaining visual clarity even at higher fragrance concentrations, allowing brands to create transparent products while retaining the appearance and longevity typically associated with fine fragrance.
The formulation is also designed to provide a non-sticky feel and has documented skin-hydrating properties.
Lower shipping weight
AQUASCENT can be supplied as a concentrate, allowing manufacturers to add water closer to final production instead of transporting fully diluted formulations.
IFF says reducing the volume and weight being shipped could help lower transport-related carbon emissions.
The launch comes as interest in water-based perfume formats grows. IFF said global Google searches for “water-based perfumes” increased 18 per cent year-to-date, while related TikTok content has accumulated more than 15 million views.
Impact to expect
The technology could give fragrance brands greater flexibility to develop alcohol-free, water-based perfumes with higher scent concentrations while reducing shipping weight, although wider adoption will depend on cost, performance and consumer acceptance.
