fragrancecomposition

Fragrance composition is the practice of creating scented materials by combining various odoriferous ingredients to produce a cohesive fragrance. It lies at the intersection of chemistry and artistry and covers natural materials such as essential oils, absolutes, resins, and tinctures, as well as synthetic aroma chemicals designed for stability, consistency, and performance. Fragrance compositions are used in perfumes, colognes, cosmetics, and other scented products.

A core concept in fragrance design is the note system, often described as a pyramid. Top notes are highly volatile and perceived first, middle (heart) notes become noticeable as the top notes fade, and base notes linger longest, providing longevity and depth. A successful composition achieves balance among these layers, with the timing, intensity, and character of each note carefully calibrated.

Materials are categorized as natural or synthetic. Natural materials come from botanicals and include citrus oils, florals, and woods, while synthetic aroma chemicals enable specific character, reproducibility, and cost efficiency. Perfumers may work with accords, which are concentrated blends intended to evoke a particular scent family, such as floral, citrus, woody, oriental, or fougère. The overall fragrance is built from a combination of individual notes and accords, refined through testing on scent vials or skin to achieve the desired impression and duration.

Regulatory and safety considerations accompany fragrance composition. Standards organizations, such as IFRA, set usage limits and labeling requirements for certain ingredients; many regions require disclosure of allergenic substances. Ethical sourcing, sustainability, and safety data sheets are also integral to professional practice.