Fragrance Notes

The three-stage evolution of a fragrance: top notes (first impression, 15–30 min), heart/middle notes (main character, 2–4 hrs), and base notes (dry-down, longest-lasting).

Also known as: Top Notes, Base Notes, Heart Notes. Category: Fragrance.

In men's style, "fragrance notes" belongs to the Fragrance family of terminology. For the full A–Z reference of men's fashion and grooming vocabulary, see the Men's Style Glossary.

Related terms

• Eau de Toilette — A fragrance concentration typically containing 5–15% aromatic compounds. Lighter and shorter-lasting than Eau de Parfum, making it popular f…
• Eau de Parfum — A fragrance concentration typically containing 15–20% aromatic compounds. Longer-lasting and more intense than Eau de Toilette, suitable for…
• Sillage — The trail of scent a fragrance leaves in the air as you move. Heavy sillage projects widely; lighter sillage stays closer to the skin. Influ…
• Fragrance Wheel — An industry classification system (developed by Michael Edwards) that organizes fragrances by family (fresh, floral, woody, amber/oriental) …
• IFRA Standards — Industry risk management standards from the International Fragrance Association that ban, limit, or set usage criteria for fragrance ingredi…
• Patch Testing (Fragrance) — Testing a small amount of fragrance on a small skin area before full use. Recommended for people with sensitive skin or known fragrance alle…