Understanding Fragrance Notes: A Beginner’s Guide

Ever noticed how a perfume smells different over time? That’s because of fragrance notes—different layers of scents that unfold as you wear the perfume. Understanding these notes helps you choose the perfect perfume for your style and personality.

What Are Fragrance Notes?

A perfume is composed of three layers of scents, which develop over time:

• Top Notes (Opening Notes): These are the first scents you smell when you apply a perfume. They last for about 10-15 minutes. Common top notes include citrus (lemon, bergamot), fruity (apple, pear), and fresh (mint, lavender).
• Middle Notes (Heart Notes): These develop after the top notes fade. They form the core of the fragrance and last for a few hours. Common middle notes include floral (rose, jasmine), spicy (cinnamon, nutmeg), and green (tea, basil).
• Base Notes (Lasting Notes): These are the deepest, longest-lasting scents that linger on your skin for hours. Base notes include musk, vanilla, amber, and sandalwood.

Why Are Fragrance Notes Important?

• Help you choose a long-lasting scent – The right base notes can make a perfume last all day.
• Determine how a perfume evolves over time – Some perfumes start fresh and become deep and warm.
• Help you layer perfumes correctly – Knowing fragrance notes helps in perfume layering for a custom scent.