Fragrance Notes in Perfume

Notes are individual layers of scent comprising the overall aroma. These may be present at different stages in the fragrance's wear, referred to as Top, Middle and Base notes.

Top, Middle and Base Notes
Explained

Top Notes

A fragrance's first impression. These notes are present as soon as the fragrance is applied, and last up to 20 minutes on average.


Typical ingredients: fresh and bright notes like citrus (particularly bergamot), white florals, light fruits, and fresh herbs.

Middle Notes

The fragrance's main body. The middle notes (also known as heart notes) present after the top notes have evaporated, and last 2 to 3 hours.


Typical ingredients: depends on the fragrance's scent profile, however these will be more rounded than in the top notes, such as rose or neroli in a floral fragrance.

Base Notes

Adds depth to the fragrance. Present throughout, the base notes create a scent 'background' the top and middle notes interact with.


Typical ingredients: warm and long-lasting, due to their heavy molecular structure, usually a combination of wood, resin, and musk.

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