Essential oils dissolve very readily in alcohol, and various forms of alcohol are used in making perfumes and other preparations from essential oils.

Isopropyl alcohol (or isopropanol) is sometimes used in making rubs, deodorants and aftershaves, although it is rather 'savage' to the skin, and needs to be used in very small amounts, along with floral waters or distilled water. Some very large retail chemists sell it, though they may limit the amount you can buy at any time. Ethyl alcohol, or perfume grade alcohol (ethanol) can only be bought with a special licence.

For home making of smallish amounts of aftershaves, skin toners and deodorants vodka (the highest proof you can find) is a good substitute, and if you visit the continent and can bring back some 'eau de vie', that would be even better. Brandy makes a good basis for a mouthwash.