Perfumery: Top note, middle note and Base note and examples

Note in perfumery is a term use to describe the rate of volatility  of  the scent of a perfume when worn. They are basically three classes of notes. The top/head note, middle/heart note and the base note. Each of these classes has a time frame in their longevity. The fragrance we use to make perfume, fall under one of these classes of notes. A Perfume for instance that contains only top note will not stand the test of time. In order to have a lasting fragrance, you have to wisely incorporate the three classes of notes in your perfume. Earlier we discuss fixative some of these notes are fixatives.

What is a Top Note?

 A top note is that initial scent that is perceived when a perfume is worn. It contains small and light molecules that evaporate rapidly which   last from 15 – 30 minutes upon application. Their composition in perfumes may range from 20 – 30%.

What is a Middle Note ?

Middle note is the smell that comes right after the expiration of the top note. They contain heavier molecules and stays longer than the top note. Their evaporation rate is a bit slower. Their composition in perfumes may range from 40 – 80%.

What is a Base Note?

Base note as the name implies, they are the last smell to be perceive on application of perfume. Most of them serve as fixative example like the musk. They contain very heavy molecules that takes time to be broken down, they are less volatile.  A well formulated perfume with a unique blend of the three types of notes can last for even 24 hours on application due to the presence of a base note. Their composition may range from 10 – 25 %.

In choosing base notes, it is highly recommended to choose ones that help to amplify mostly the top note. A good blend of the three classes of note will give you a nice and lasting fragrance.

Below is a Chart of Most Frequently Used Perfume Notes 

Top Notes	Heart Notes	Base Notes
1. Bergamot 2. Peach 3. Mandarin Orange 4. Greens 5. Aldehydes 6. Lemon 7. Coriander 8. Black Currant 9. Galbanum 10. Black Violet Leaves 11. Pepper 12. Grapefruit 13. Rosewood 14. Pineapple 15. Plum 16. Raspberry 17. Marigold 18. Sage 19. Tangerine 20. Apricot 21. Cardamom 22. Mango 23. Lime 24. Passion fruit 25. Pear 26. Petigrain 27. Strawberries 28. Water Lilly 29. Coconut 30. Ginger 31. Cassis	1.    Rose 2.    Jasmine 3.    Ylang Ylang 4.    Lily of the Valley 5.    Tuberose 6.    Hyacinth 7.    Orange Blossom 8.    Neroli 9.    Carnation 10. Iris 11. Orris 12. Narcissus 13. Violet 14. Gardenia 15. Geranium 16. Honeysuckle 17. Lilac 18. Orchid 19. Red Currant 20. Heliotrope 21. Wisteria	1.    Sandalwood 2.    Musk 3.    Amber 4.    Vanilla 5.    Oak moss 6.    Patchouli 7.    Vetivert 8.    Civet 9.    Cedar wood 10. Benzoin 11. Incense 12. Tonka Bean 13. Honey 14. Moss 15. Clove 16. Spices - Anise 17. Styrax 18. Opoponax 19. Bay Rum 20. Leather

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Have a nice day!