What is Fragrance?
Fragrance Types, Notes & the Power of Scent Memory
What is a Fragrance?
A fragrance, commonly known as perfume, is a carefully crafted blend of fragrant oils dissolved in ethanol.
This ethanol is essential for dissolving the aromatic compounds, ensuring smooth application and creating a fine mist upon spraying.
The concentration of these oils—these precious aromatics—determines the fragrance's strength and longevity. Higher concentrations create richer, more enduring scents, while lower concentrations result in lighter, more refreshing aromas.
Categories of Fragrances
Eau de Cologne
Oil Concentration: Less than 5%-
Developed in Cologne, Germany, in the early 18th century. Bright, fresh opening, often citrusy.
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Short-lived due to the very low oil concentration.
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Often worn in warmer climates or for casual daytime use because it doesn’t overpower.Typically used for a quick refreshing burst of fragrance.
Eau de Toilette (EDT)
Oil Concentration: 10% - 15%-
More substantial than cologne but still relatively light and fresh.
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Lasts for several hours, making it a popular choice for everyday wear.
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Frequently chosen for warmer months or daytime occasions.
Eau de Parfum (EDP)
Oil Concentration: 15% - 18%-
Middle Ground: A bit more full-bodied, EDP is often seen as the sweet spot between lightness and longevity.
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Lasts most of the day.
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Suitable for both day and night, and can last longer than an EDT
Parfum
Oil Concentration: 20% - 25%-
Deep, rich, and luxurious, you will turn heads walking down the street and attract people across the room.
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Lasts the entire day & night
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Typically worn for special occasions or in cooler climates due to its potency.
WHAT ARE FRAGRANCE NOTES
Top Notes
The initial impression when you first apply the fragrance. Usually light, fresh and designed to draw attention.
Lasts about 15 mins.
Examples: Citrus, herbs, and light fruits like bergamot or lemon.
Heart Notes
As the top notes fade, the heart notes take centre stage, they provide the core identity of the fragrance and are often more robust and full-bodied.
Lasts about 30-60 minutes.
Examples: Floral scents (like rose or jasmine) or spices (like cinnamon or cardamom).
Base Notes
The base notes are the foundation of the fragrance, providing depth and richness.
Lasts for many hours.
Examples: Woods, musk, amber, vanilla.
HOW TO WEAR FRAGRANCE
There’s no strict way of applying fragrance.
Here are a few tips:
Apply perfume to clean dry skin (ideally after showering) targeting pulse points like wrists, inner elbows, neck and behind ears.
Spray - don’t rub! Start with a 1-3 sprays and add more if needed.
Consider lightly spraying hair (avoid roots) or clothing (avoiding delicate fabrics).
What is the difference between perfumes marketed to males and females?
✨There is no difference. Wear what you like.✨
Existing labels on fragrance all comes down to current trends and marketing.
Think of it this way: deeper, woodier, and muskier scents are often pushed as masculine, while lighter, fruitier, and floral notes tend to be marketed as feminine.
Power of Scent
Power of Scent
SCENT & MEMORY
Among the five senses, smell is uniquely connected to the part of the brain responsible for emotion and memory. This is why certain fragrances can immediately evoke specific memories or feelings.
When we inhale a fragrance, its molecules bind to receptors in the nose and send signals to the ⚡️olfactory bulb⚡️, which is part of the limbic system and the emotional centre of the brain.
SCENT & EMOTION
Scents can trigger strong emotional responses. For example, the smell of peppermint or rosemary can increase alertness and focus, providing a sense of invigoration.
This is why certain perfumes can remind you of specific people, places, or experiences—they form part of our emotional memory.
