What is a substance added to perfumes to slow down the evaporation of volatile ingredients?

A fixative is a substance specifically designed to slow down the evaporation of volatile ingredients in perfumes. This is crucial because many fragrance compounds are highly volatile, meaning they can evaporate quickly and affect the longevity and overall scent experience of the perfume. By incorporating fixatives into the formulation, perfumers can enhance the lasting power of the fragrance, allowing it to remain on the skin longer and maintain its olfactory profile over time.

In contrast, emulsifiers are used to mix oil and water-soluble ingredients, stabilizers are meant to maintain the consistency and integrity of a product over time, and preservatives are added to prevent microbial growth and spoilage. While these functions are essential for product formulation, they do not serve the primary purpose of extending the scent duration as fixatives do. Understanding the role of fixatives in fragrance development is vital for anyone studying or working in the field of perfumery and cosmetic science.