Olfactory Notes

Scent notes are essential for creating a pleasant and memorable atmosphere. By understanding the different categories of notes and choosing quality products, it is possible to enrich your environment with fragrances that soothe the mind and uplift the soul.

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Olfactory notes, the heart of perfume creation

Perfumes are composed of different olfactory notes that follow one another to create a true aromatic symphony. Every fragrance begins with the top notes , the most volatile scents that offer the first impression when you spray the perfume. They are often fresh and light, like citrus or mint , and disappear quickly.
They then give way to the heart notes , which constitute the very essence of the perfume and bring depth and character for several hours.
Finally, the base notes are the most persistent: composed of heavier molecules such as wood , musk or vanilla , they ensure the longevity and olfactory signature of each creation.

Understanding olfactory families

Each fragrance belongs to an olfactory family , defined by its dominant accords. Traditionally, seven main families are distinguished, which help to better understand a fragrance's personality and refine one's choice:

  • Citrusy : fresh and sparkling citrus notes (lemon, bergamot, orange, grapefruit) ideal for summer or bright days.
  • Floral : delicate and romantic, this is the family of roses, jasmine, lily or lily of the valley , very present in women's perfumery.
  • Oriental : warm and sensual, it combines amber, vanilla, spices and resins .
  • Woody : deep and enveloping accords, based on cedar, sandalwood or vetiver , often associated with unisex or masculine perfumes.
  • Fougère : a classic combination of lavender, oakmoss and coumarin , evoking the natural freshness of the undergrowth.
  • Chypre : elegant and sophisticated, it combines bergamot , oakmoss and patchouli for a timeless signature.

This classification highlights the dominant notes and helps define a perfume's identity . By understanding the olfactory families, you will be able to recognize the accords that resonate most with your personality.

How to choose your perfume?

To find the perfect fragrance , it is essential to identify the notes and olfactory families that you like, but also the occasions on which you will wear them.

  • Citrus fragrances are perfect for daytime or the office.
  • Floral and fruity notes bring sweetness and romance.
  • The woody and oriental notes reveal a deep and seductive trail, ideal for evenings or cold seasons.

Always test a perfume on your skin to observe its olfactory evolution over the hours, and adapt your choice to the season or event .

The importance of the olfactory pyramid

Understanding the olfactory pyramid allows you not only to appreciate a fragrance, but also to better preserve it and know when to apply it . Each composition evolves in three stages – top, middle, and base – influenced by your skin's chemistry, pH , and hydration .
Olfactory notes tell a story : they are the cornerstone of any perfume, defining its character and emotion , and reflecting the personality of the person who wears it.
By exploring these olfactory families and their many facets, you will discover harmonious compositions that reflect your essence and accompany you through every moment of your life.

What are olfactory notes in perfumery?

Olfactory notes are the individual scents that make up a perfume’s structure. They are classified into top, heart, and base notes, each revealing itself gradually to create the complete fragrance experience.

What is the difference between top, heart, and base notes?

Top notes are the first scents perceived after spraying, often fresh and light. Heart notes appear after a few minutes and form the body of the fragrance. Base notes last the longest and give the perfume its depth and persistence.

How can I recognize an olfactory family?

Each olfactory family is defined by its dominant accords. Citrus fragrances are fresh and sparkling, florals are romantic, orientals are warm and spicy, and woody perfumes are deep and elegant. Knowing these families helps refine your preferences.

How do I choose the right perfume for me?

To choose the right perfume, focus on the scents that resonate with you emotionally and match your lifestyle. Test the fragrance on your skin to observe how it evolves throughout the day, as body chemistry influences the final result.

What is the olfactory pyramid?

The olfactory pyramid represents the three layers of a perfume: top, heart, and base notes. It helps understand how the scent develops over time and why some perfumes feel fresher at first but warmer as they settle.