What Is Ylang Eo?
Ylang Eo is an essential oil obtained from the fresh flowers of the ylang ylang tree. DSM-Firmenich produces a quality controlled version, though other aroma houses offer comparable grades under generic names.
The oil is made through water or steam distillation. After distillation the fragrant oil floats on the water and is skimmed off, giving a clear to soft golden liquid that pours easily at room temperature.
Perfumers reach for Ylang Eo when they need a floral note that feels smooth yet bright. It shows up in prestige fine fragrances, but also in haircare, soaps and scented candles, so its use is very common.
Stored in a full, airtight glass bottle kept away from heat and light, the oil generally keeps its quality for roughly two to three years before it starts to lose brightness.
Compared with other floral materials Ylang Eo sits in the mid-range on cost. It is not the cheapest floral in the lab, yet it is far more affordable than true jasmine or rose absolutes, which is another reason it is seen so often in formulas.
Ylang Eo’s Scent Description
Ylang Eo is classed in the floral family.
On a blotter the first impression is a sweet creamy bloom that feels both tropical and elegant. Hints of ripe banana and soft peach peek through, quickly followed by a waxy jasmine nuance and a light citrus-neroli sparkle. As it settles a gentle spice similar to clove and a faint balsamic warmth round out the profile, adding depth without heaviness.
In the traditional scent pyramid we talk about top, middle and base notes. Ylang Eo sits mainly in the heart, arriving a few minutes after application and carrying the floral story for hours. A touch of its brightness can flash in the top, while a smooth, almost woody sweetness lingers into the drydown, though it never acts as a true base note.
Projection is moderate yet noticeable, giving a graceful aura rather than a blast. On a blotter the scent stays lively for well over 24 hours and faint traces can still be picked up after two days, proving its good staying power for a floral material.
How & Where To Use Ylang Eo
Perfume creators turn to Ylang Eo when they need warmth and volume in the floral heart of a formula. Its creamy jasmine-neroli glow bridges fresh top notes with sweeter bases, making it an ideal link between citrus openings and ambery or woody drydowns. In a classic white-floral accord it softens the indolic punch of jasmine absolute while adding sunny lift that gardenia or tuberose lack. It also pairs beautifully with fruity facets in modern tropical blends where it enhances banana, mango or coconut nuances without becoming sugary.
The oil usually sits between traces and 5 percent of a compound. At 0.1 percent it lends a subtle polish that rounds sharper materials. Around 1 percent it becomes a distinct floral voice that feels plush yet still balanced. Pushed past 3 percent it can dominate and tilt a scent toward balsamic heaviness or give an oily banana note that smells dated, so restraint is key unless the goal is a retro exotic style.
Ylang Eo shines in fine fragrance but also works in shampoos, soaps, candles and fabric softeners because it survives high dilution and moderate heat. It is less suited to bleach-based cleaners where the delicate florals get flattened. In cold-process soap keep the dose low; higher levels may accelerate trace and cause discoloration.
Before using, weigh or measure the oil then pre-dilute to 10-20 percent in ethanol or dipropylene glycol for easier blending and more accurate dosing. The oil is fully alcohol-soluble, though a quick warm-water bath may be needed if it has thickened in cool storage. Shake well before each use as heavier fractions can settle over time.
Safety Information
Always dilute Ylang Eo before evaluating it. Avoid direct sniffing from the bottle to prevent overwhelming the nose. Work in a well-ventilated space to limit inhalation of concentrated vapors and wear disposable gloves and safety glasses to protect skin and eyes.
Like many essential oils Ylang Eo contains natural allergens that can trigger irritation or sensitization in some individuals. Brief contact with low concentrations is generally considered safe yet prolonged or high-level exposure raises the risk of redness, itchiness or respiratory discomfort. Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a medical professional before handling fragrance materials.
Dispose of small waste amounts by mixing with an absorbent material such as sand then placing the sealed mixture in general chemical waste. Never pour unused oil down the drain as it can harm aquatic life.
Conditions can differ by supplier so always review the most recent safety data sheet for your specific batch and follow the IFRA regulations for maximum allowable levels in each product category. Regularly check for updates to ensure ongoing compliance and safe practice.
How To Store & Dispose of Ylang Eo
Store Ylang Eo in tightly sealed glass bottles kept in a cool dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Refrigeration is not essential yet it can slow oxidation and help the oil retain its brightness for longer. If you do refrigerate, allow the bottle to reach room temperature before opening to avoid moisture condensing inside the container.
Use polycone caps for both neat oil and dilutions. They form a better seal than rubber bulb droppers, which allow air to creep in and can degrade with time. Avoid repeatedly opening large bottles; instead decant working amounts into smaller amber or aluminum vials so each container stays as full as possible, minimizing headspace and exposure to oxygen.
Label every container clearly with the material name, date of receipt, batch number and key hazard statements. Place safety data sheets within easy reach of anyone who might handle the oil. Keep the storage area organized so incompatible chemicals are not placed side by side.
When the oil is no longer usable mix leftovers with an absorbent material such as vermiculite or sawdust, seal the mixture in a disposable container then send it to a facility that accepts solvent or paint waste. Never pour Ylang Eo down the drain; while the components are partly biodegradable they can still harm aquatic organisms at high concentration.
Rinse empty bottles with a small amount of alcohol, add the rinse to the waste container and allow the glass to dry before recycling if local rules permit. Wash measuring tools in warm soapy water, wipe them dry and store them separately from food utensils.
Summary
Ylang Eo is a floral essential oil distilled from fresh ylang ylang blossoms, prized for a creamy tropical aroma that blends jasmine sweetness with a hint of neroli sparkle. The material adds volume warmth and a polished heart note to fine fragrance, haircare bases, soaps and candles.
Its popularity stems from a balanced cost profile, approachable scent and good stability over two to three years when stored well. While more affordable than true jasmine or rose it still brings a luxurious feel that elevates both commercial and artisan formulas.
Keep an eye on dosage because too much can push a formula toward heavy banana or balsamic tones. Store it cool, shield it from air and light, and follow standard safety limits for natural allergens.
Perfumers can purchase Ylang Eo directly from DSM-Firmenich in bulk or source comparable grades through reputable third-party resellers that offer smaller pack sizes suitable for hobbyists and small brands.