What is a fragrance pyramid?
It is said that there are as many opinions as there are people. This saying is reflected in every aspect of life, including perfumery. Each of us has different scent preferences.
Some prefer classic fragrances based on proven aromas, while others seek perfumes that surprise with unique compositions. However, regardless of which scents we like the most, the truth about perfumes is singular: their foundation is the fragrance pyramid. But what exactly is it, why is it so important, and why must notes develop in a specific order? We will answer all these questions in this article.
The fragrance pyramid
The fragrance pyramid is a concept that describes how a perfume’s scent evolves over time. This structure divides the scent into three layers: top notes, heart notes, and base notes, which together create a complete, complex aroma. Each of these layers refers to different fragrance ingredients that are released in different phases after applying the perfume.
Composition of the fragrance pyramid:
1. Top notes (head notes)
Duration: 15–30 minutes
Top notes are usually light, fresh, and evaporate quickly. They can include citrus, fruity, herbal, or light floral notes. They are designed to attract attention and encourage further exploration of the fragrance.
Head notes determine the first impression that a scent makes on the skin and are crucial for the initial attractiveness of the perfume.
Examples: lemon, bergamot, grapefruit, mint, lavender.
2. Heart notes, also known as middle notes
Duration: 2–4 hours
Heart notes are usually more expressive, rich, and full, often consisting of floral, spicy, green, or fruity accords. They often blend top notes with base notes, creating a harmonious composition.
Heart notes are the most important part of a fragrance composition, giving the perfume its depth and expressiveness. They define the true identity of the scent.
Examples: rose, jasmine, violet, cinnamon.
3. Base notes or the background of the fragrance
Duration: 4–12 hours (or longer)
Base notes appear the latest but last the longest. They are the heaviest and most enduring, responsible for the depth and longevity of the fragrance. These ingredients often develop slowly and are usually warm, woody, or resinous.
Base notes remain on the skin the longest and are what is often remembered about a perfume after it has faded.
Examples: sandalwood, vanilla, patchouli, amber, musk, cedar.
In summary
The fragrance pyramid is not just a theoretical tool in the perfume industry—it is a practical guide to the world of scents, helping to better understand how perfumes develop, what emotions they evoke, and how to best match them to our lifestyle and personality. Knowing the structure of the fragrance pyramid allows us to enjoy a fuller and more conscious experience of perfumes, which, in turn, translates into long-term satisfaction from their use.