vanilla scent through infusion, etc.

[May]

Hi all,

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas.

I'm trying to make a vanilla scented lip balm and lotion and I would like to avoid synthetic fragrances.

Can I use vanilla extract in my lotion/lip balm?

OR

Should I make an vanilla infusion? (If this is the best option- how should I do it and is there a recommended oil. Could an infusion have a strong enough scent to make a lip balm or lotion smell yummy like when one is baking?)

Are there any essential oils that have a smell similar to vanilla?

Thanks! If anyone has other suggestions please let me know.

 

[Obsidian]

Extract won't work, infusion might but your best bet is to use vanilla absolute. Its spendy but natural and will even survive in soap.

 

[shunt2011]

I agree with Obsidian. Extract won't work and would likely cause more trouble than flavor or scent. Vanilla Absolute would be your best option for staying all natural.

 

[May]

Ok- thank you. Do you have any recommendations on where to purchase vanilla absolute?

 

[KristaY]

I make my own vanilla extract for baking. I steep vanilla beans in vodka for a couple of months. I wonder if you could do the same with a soft oil you'd use for the lotion and lip balm? It would probably take quite a bit of time to get it to the concentration you want. When I infuse calendula I heat my OO then steep the petals overnight, strain off then use as I normally would when I make soap. It would be a costly experiment (as vanilla beans aren't the cheapest things you can buy) but might be worth it. If you try it, let us know how it works out for you!

 

[Mellifera]

I've infused vanilla beans in oil, and the. Used the result I. Lip balm. Takes time, but doable.