Fragrance (pronounced FRAH-geh) is a combination of chemicals that give perfumes and colognes their distinctive scent. The chemicals used in fragrance can be natural or synthetic and are typically added to oils or alcohols. Perfumes also contain other ingredients such as preservatives, fixatives and dyes. Fragrance is found in a wide variety of beauty and personal care products including makeup, body and haircare and even some cleaning supplies and laundry detergents. The chemicals that make up a product’s fragrance are not required to be disclosed on the ingredient list because they are considered a trade secret.
Fragrances can be classified by their notes which are the different components that create a perfume’s smell. The oldest family of fragrance is citrus, which includes scents such as bergamot and grapefruit. This scent has a light, fresh and zesty aroma that is very versatile. Popular examples of a citrus fragrance include 4711, Guerlain’s Eau de Cologne Imperiale and Penhaligon’s Quercus.
Middle notes are the next most common type of fragrance and are a combination of different oils or compounds such as rose, jasmine and lavender. These are the scents that usually last the longest and can be worn for hours. Popular examples of a middle note are Chanel No. 19 and Armani Si.
Base notes are the final layer of a perfume and are a combination of oils or compounds such as patchouli and amber. This is where a perfume’s warmth and intensity comes from and it can often last for up to 30 minutes after application. Popular examples of a base fragrance are Dior J’Adore and Lancome La Vie Est Belle.