Fragrance notes for beginners: a simple guide to understanding perfumes

Perfume is more than just a pleasant scent - it is an expression of personality, mood and style. However, anyone learning about perfume for the first time is quickly faced with a plethora of terms and fragrance notes that can be confusing. Terms such as top, heart and base notes, perfume notes or fragrance components appear everywhere, but what do they actually mean? In this guide, we explain how a fragrance works, how you can learn to understand perfume notes and what you should look out for as a beginner to find your perfect fragrance.

Fragrance notes explained: the fragrance pyramid as a basis

Every perfume is structured like a small work of art. The basis is the so-called fragrance pyramid, which is divided into three levels: Top notes, heart notes and base notes. This structure ensures that a fragrance changes over time and reveals different facets.

Top notes - the first impression

The top note is what you perceive immediately after applying the fragrance. It consists of light, volatile fragrances that evaporate quickly. Typical top notes are citrus fruits such as bergamot, lime or grapefruit, but also green or aquatic notes. The top notes determine the first impression and arouse curiosity for more. They usually only last a few minutes to a maximum of half an hour.

Heart note - the centerpiece of the perfume

After the top note has faded, the heart note unfolds. It forms the actual heart of the perfume and determines its character. Heart notes are usually floral, spicy or fruity. Examples are rose, jasmine, lavender or cinnamon. The heart note lasts for several hours and is what most people perceive as the actual scent of a perfume.

Base note - the long-lasting finish

The base note is the foundation of every perfume. It consists of heavy, long-lasting fragrances such as vanilla, sandalwood, patchouli or musk. The base note often remains on the skin for many hours and ensures that the fragrance is present for a long time. It gives the perfume depth and warmth and combines with your individual skin chemistry.

How does a fragrance work? The development on the skin

A perfume is a composition of different fragrance components that gradually unfold. After spraying on, the light molecules of the top note evaporate first, followed by the heart note and finally the base note. This development is known as the "fragrance pyramid".

But why does a perfume smell different on every person? The answer lies in skin chemistry: factors such as skin type, diet, hormones and even the climate influence how a fragrance develops. That's why it's important to always test a perfume on your own skin and give it time to develop1.

Understanding fragrance components: The most important terms

• Perfume notes: Individual fragrance ingredients that are divided into top, heart and base notes.
• Fragrance pyramid: The structure according to which a fragrance develops.
• Sillage: The scent trail that a perfume leaves behind.
• Longevity: How long a fragrance is perceptible on the skin.
• Intensity: How strong a perfume smells - at ODOR always as Extrait de Parfum or Parfum, never as Eau de Parfum. Our fragrances contain a particularly high proportion of fragrance oil and are therefore more intense and long-lasting than eau de parfum.

Perfume for beginners: how to find your fragrance

Especially as a beginner, the choice can be overwhelming. Here are some tips on how to find your perfect fragrance:

• Test different fragrance families: try fresh, floral, spicy and woody scents to find out what appeals to you the most.
• Apply perfume to your skin: This is the only way you can experience how the fragrance notes develop on your skin.
• Give the fragrance time: The first few minutes reveal the top note, after about 30 minutes the heart note unfolds and after a few hours the base note remains.
• Less is more: Extrait de Parfums and perfumes are very concentrated - just a few drops are enough.
• Make a note of your preferences: Write down which fragrance notes you particularly like in order to select new perfumes.

Recognize top, heart and base notes in everyday life

A good example of the fragrance pyramid is a classic perfume:

• Top note: Fresh citrus fruits provide an invigorating start.
• Heart notes: Floral accords such as rose or jasmine lend the fragrance elegance.
• Base note: Warm, woody notes such as sandalwood or vanilla provide depth and longevity.

With this knowledge, you can pay close attention to how the individual phases develop on your skin during your next perfume test.

How does a fragrance work? The role of concentration

Another important aspect is the concentration of the perfume. At ODOR, we only offer Extrait de Parfums and Parfums - not Eau de Parfums. The difference lies in the proportion of fragrance oil: Extrait de Parfum contains 20-40% fragrance oil, Parfum even up to 40%. This makes our fragrances particularly intense, long-lasting and luxurious. Eau de Parfum contains significantly less oil (usually 10-20%) and is correspondingly lighter and less lasting.

For you, this means that our fragrances remain on the skin for many hours and develop intensively - ideal for anyone who values quality and longevity.

Understanding fragrance components: The most important fragrance families

To better classify perfumes, it is worth taking a look at the different fragrance families:

• Fresh & Citrus: Invigorating, sporty, ideal for everyday wear.
• Floral: Romantic, feminine, versatile.
• Spicy & Oriental: Warm, sensual, often with amber or oud.
• Woody: Elegant, masculine, timeless.
• Gourmand: Sweet, delicious, reminiscent of desserts.

Each family has its own typical fragrance notes and characteristics. If you know which family you like, you can search for suitable fragrances.

London Perfume & international inspirations

The perfume world is international. Perfumes from London in particular are known for their creative compositions and classic fragrances. They often combine traditional craftsmanship with modern accents and set trends that attract worldwide attention. Although ODOR does not sell branded fragrances, we draw inspiration from international fragrance trends to create unique, high-quality creations that are both timeless and modern.

Frequently asked questions from beginners

How long does a perfume last?

That depends on the concentration. Extrait de Parfums and Parfums often last 8-12 hours or longer, while Eau de Parfum usually fades after a few hours.

How do I find out which fragrances I like?

Test different perfumes on your skin and pay attention to which scents appeal to you in particular. Make a note of the names of the fragrances you like.

Can I wear perfume all year round?

Yes, but many people prefer lighter, fresh fragrances in summer and warmer, spicy compositions in winter.

Why does a perfume smell different on me than on others?

Every skin is unique. Factors such as skin type, diet and even the climate influence how a fragrance develops1.

Perfume for beginners: practical tips

• Always test fragrances on the skin, not just on paper strips.
• Apply perfume to warm areas of the body (e.g. wrist, neck).
• Use high-quality perfumes with a high fragrance oil content for a long-lasting experience.
• Trust your own taste - not every trend or brand name.
• Give the fragrance time to develop before deciding whether it suits you.

Conclusion: With knowledge to the perfect fragrance

The world of perfume is fascinating and diverse. If you understand the basics of top, heart and base notes and know how a fragrance works, it will be easier for you to find the right perfume for you. At ODOR, you will find exclusive extrait de parfums and perfumes that are based on high-quality fragrance components and take you on an olfactory journey - without any branded perfumes or eau de parfum.

Start your journey of discovery and find your own personal favorite fragrance - intense, luxurious and unique.