perfume

Perfume is a fragrance composition intended for personal scenting or space perfuming. It combines essential oils or aroma compounds, fixatives to slow evaporation, and a volatile solvent such as ethanol. The final product may be labeled parfum, eau de parfum, eau de toilette, or eau de cologne, reflecting concentration.

Concentrations commonly range from parfum (15–40%) to eau de parfum (10–20%), eau de toilette (5–15%), and eau de cologne (2–5%).

Fragrances are built from notes: top notes are perceived first, middle notes emerge after, and base notes linger longest. Perfumers blend natural essences (for example rose, jasmine, sandalwood) with synthetic compounds to form accords and overall character.

History: Fragrances were used in ancient civilizations, with modern perfumery expanding in the 19th and 20th centuries as synthetic aroma chemicals were developed. Aldehydes, for instance, played a notable role in mid-20th-century designs such as Chanel No. 5.

Production methods include steam distillation, expression, solvent extraction, and CO2 extraction. Natural ingredients come from flowers, resins, and woods; synthetic compounds extend longevity, create new scents, or replace scarce materials.

Usage and safety: Perfume is usually applied to pulse points such as the wrists and neck. Patch testing is advised for sensitive skin. Regulators such as IFRA and regional cosmetics laws govern safety, labeling, and allergen disclosures, and many jurisdictions require listing common fragrance allergens.

Market and regulation: The fragrance industry is global, with major houses and numerous brands. Trends emphasize sustainability and responsible sourcing, alongside a wide range of scent families from floral and fresh to woody and oriental.