Perfume Pearls are built on Microcaps’ patented microfluidic platform technology, originally developed at ETH Zurich and protected by 11 patents. Our step-emulsification process enables highly controlled droplet formation at industrial scale — delivering precision, consistency, and reproducibility beyond conventional encapsulation methods. While the platform serves industries such as cosmetics, nutrition, and pharmaceuticals, Perfume Pearls represent its dedicated application in fine fragrance — translating deep encapsulation expertise into a new alcohol-free perfume format.
Traditionally, alcohol has defined how fine fragrance is formulated and experienced. It dissolves the perfume oil and enables rapid diffusion, but it also dictates the structure of the formula. Removing alcohol is complex. In water-based systems, fragrance oils can separate or require emulsifiers that affect skin-feeling and aesthetics. Perfume Pearls take a different approach. The perfume oil is kept separate inside tiny pearls, creating a stable, alcohol-free system where spray performance, appearance, and fragrance intensity are deliberately engineered
Perfume Pearls create a refreshing, skin-conscious fragrance experience. When sprayed, the pearls burst and release a fine mist of fragrance and water, leaving a light, soft sensation without alcohol’s drying effect. The pearls are made from alginate — an algae-derived material valued in cosmetics for its skin-friendly properties. Fragrance performance remains defined by the perfume itself. Scent profile and longevity depend on the composition, while the carrier system supports a soothing and fresh application
Perfume Pearls are made directly from pure fine fragrance oil — without alcohol or solubilizers. Using our patented precision technology, the fragrance is formed into uniform droplets. In a second step, a translucent algae-based shell forms around each droplet, trapping the perfume inside and keeping it separate from the surrounding water-based formula. The result is a stable system without additional emulsifiers. Each pearl visibly contains the fragrance, creating elegant, suspended spheres within the product.
Encapsulation is only part of the innovation. The surrounding system is equally important. The pearls are suspended in a structured water-based system designed and patented specifically for fine fragrance. This architecture keeps the pearls evenly distributed while remaining fully sprayable — even at different fragrance loads. The formula supports the inclusion of selected water-based ingredients and is built on bio-polymers suitable for vegan and natural positioning. Fragrance load ranges from 5–20%, with fine fragrance applications typically between 12–20%.
Perfume Pearls are manufactured in Switzerland under strict cosmetic production standards. Four patented EOS production lines, purpose-built for this technology, ensure controlled and reproducible pearl formation at industrial scale. Swiss precision and encapsulation expertise are embedded in every step of the process. Production adheres to Cosmetic GMP 22716, ensuring quality, traceability, and compliance for global fragrance launches.
No. The pearls are built directly around your perfume oil. We encapsulate the fragrance during production, meaning the composition is integrated into the pearl formation process from the beginning.
The system works with standard glass perfume bottles.
When it comes to spray heads, compatibility depends on the specific pump design. Many standard fine fragrance pumps work well, and we support you in selecting or adjusting the right solution. Where needed, we can recommend compatible spray systems.
Longevity depends primarily on the fragrance composition itself — not on the absence of alcohol. According to our internal evaluations and external feedback, lastingness remains comparable and is defined by the perfume formula.
We supply the product in bulk. Filling and final packaging are typically handled by your existing partners. If needed, we can recommend experienced fillers and packaging suppliers.
The fragrance profile remains defined by your composition. As with any formulation process, compatibility testing is performed to ensure optimal results for each fragrance.
Most fine fragrance oils can be processed. Because fragrances are complex liquids, each composition is evaluated individually to ensure stable pearl formation.
Yes. The pearls are visible to the eye and give the product its distinctive, elegant appearance.
No. The alcohol-free, water-based system is not automatically classified as a flammable good.
The structured water-based system allows the inclusion of selected water-based ingredients. Extended customization can be developed as part of dedicated projects.
