We can describe notes as "layers of scent that emerge one after another over time." One of the most effective ways to make choosing a perfume for ourselves or someone else easier is to learn about perfume notes. Once you understand the meaning of "top," "middle," and "base" notes, you'll feel much more confident in your future choices.

Top Notes

You've probably tried many perfumes that became indispensable to you, but wrinkled your nose and said, "This is not for me!" when you first tried them. These top notes, also known as "opening notes," are the lightest of all the scents. However, they are important because they provide the initial impression when you spray the perfume. Though they fade the fastest, they create the first impression, captivating you and preparing the ground for a smooth transition to the middle notes.

Common top notes include citrus (lemon, orange peel, and bergamot); light fruits (such as grapefruit, strawberry, and blackberry); and certain plants (such as musk, sage, and lavender).

Middle Notes

Within the first 20 minutes to an hour after applying perfume, the top notes evaporate, leaving behind the scents of the middle notes — the "heart" of the perfume! This is why middle notes are often referred to as "heart notes." Usually a blend of floral and fruity scents, sometimes enhanced with spicy essences like cinnamon or coconut, the middle notes are generally the most pleasant and attention-grabbing. They last between 30 minutes and 45 minutes on your body and reflect the "theme" of your perfume.

Common middle notes include geranium, rose, lemon balm, ylang-ylang, lavender, coriander, coconut, orange blossom, and jasmine.

Base Notes

Once the middle notes have faded, the base notes reveal the perfume's true character. The "durability" of a perfume, a criterion we all consider important, is also determined by the performance of the base notes. In other words, base notes primarily serve to extend the perfume's effect; however, the duration of this effect depends entirely on the product's quality and how well it suits our skin.

Popular base notes include cedarwood, sandalwood, vanilla, amber, patchouli, oak moss, and musk.