Fragrance is a combination of chemicals that gives perfume and cologne their distinctive scents. It can be derived from petroleum or natural raw materials. Companies that make fragrances use formulas created by perfume houses (companies that specialize in developing them). Fragrance may contain “scent” chemicals, but also solvents, stabilizers, UV-absorbers, preservatives and dyes. Fragrance manufacturers and the companies that market them don’t have to disclose these ingredients to consumers.
Fragrances are formulated with three structural parts: head, middle and base notes. The head or top note has a bright, fresh scent that evaporates quickly after application — 5-30 minutes after spraying. This smell is usually light and refreshing, like citrus or other fruits, or herbs such as sage or lavender.
The middle or heart note builds off the top note and can last 3-5 hours after being sprayed. The middle notes are more enduring, and they can be floral such as jasmine or gardenia, green scents such as grass or leaves, or spice scents such as cinnamon or clove. They can also be woody scents such as vetiver or patchouli, with a camphoraceous quality.
The base or core notes are a foundation that helps the fragrance last. The fragrance is essentially finished, but it needs to be matured and aged, a process that takes from one month to a year. During this time the perfume is kept undisturbed in a cool, dark place. This allows the molecules to bond with each other, strengthening the fragrance and making it more long-lasting.