Fragrances, also referred to as perfumes, are the substances or mixtures of substances that impart a specific scent. They may be obtained from natural sources (plants, flowers) or manufactured synthetically.
Perfumes are categorized according to their dominant odours. These include floral, spicy, woody, and mossy.
The best perfumes are typically a combination of these scents. Floral perfumes are typically scented with rose, jasmine and lily of the valley; spicy fragrances incorporate such ingredients as carnation, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg; woody perfumes feature notes such as sandalwood, cedarwood and vetiver.
Eau Fraiche: This type of perfume is diluted with water at a concentration of 1-3%, and is often used for mists or splashes. Its light and airy character can be a great choice for those who prefer a subtle, fresh scent.
Parfum: This is the most concentrated and expensive type of perfume. It contains an average of 20% fragrance, and is a long-lasting choice for those who want to scent their home with the highest quality possible.
Base notes: This is a group of compounds that appear near the departure of the middle and top notes, providing depth and solidity to the overall scent. The scents are usually perceived within 30 minutes of application.
A slew of common household products, including cleaners, air fresheners, scented detergents and hand lotions, contain dozens of chemicals that are listed as “fragrance.” These can be toxic, especially if exposed to high levels. Fortunately, many companies, such as Dermalogica and Intelligent Nutrients, now use essential oils in place of fragrance.