Fragrance notes are the layers of scent that create a perfume's overall smell.They are categorised into three main types based on how long they last and when they are most noticeable.
Top notes: Also known as the head or opening notes, these are the first scent you smell when you apply a perfume. They evaporate quickly and create the initial impression of the fragrance.
Heart notes: Also known as the middle notes, these notes appear after the top notes fade and form the main body of the fragrance. They are usually well-rounded and last longer than the top notes.
Base notes: These notes are what you smell the most and are the longest lasting. They mix with the middle notes to create the full body of the perfume.
A great-smelling perfume blend is created by balancing the aroma notes. Typically, top notes make up about 20–40% of the blend, middle notes make up about 50–75%, and base notes make up about 5–10%.
Choosing the right scent for you is about finding something that enhances your personality and makes you feel good about yourself.
Different notes within a fragrance will develop at varying rates when they come into contact with your skin according to your body heat and chemistry. Also, different concentrations of a fragrance will appeal to different sensory buds which vary in reaction to different body chemistry. Know your body chemistry and choose a fragrance with a concentration suited to your needs.
Fragrances are made up of water, alcohol and essential oils. The differences between an Elixir, a Parfum, Eau De Parfum (EDP), an Eau De Toilette (EDT) and a Cologne can be found in the concentration of the pure essential oils that make up a fragrance.