scented

Scented is an adjective describing substances or products that emit a noticeable fragrance. The fragrance arises from volatile compounds—natural essential oils, plant extracts, or synthetic aroma chemicals—introduced during manufacture or processing. The intensity, duration, and character of a scent depend on the chemical composition, concentration, and the material to which it is applied.

Common scented products include cosmetics, soaps and shampoos, detergents, air fresheners, candles, and scented fabrics or textiles. Fragrance can serve functional purposes (masking odors) or aesthetic ones (creating mood or brand identity). Some products are labeled as unscented or fragrance-free to accommodate consumers sensitive or opposed to scents.

Fragrance formulation blends various compounds to achieve a desired scent profile, and safety considerations include potential allergens and irritants. Many countries require labeling of fragrance ingredients or allergen disclosures on cosmetics and related products; some regions allow customers to request fragrance-free options.

Historically, humans have used scented substances since ancient civilizations, evolving from natural aromatics to modern synthetic fragrances in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the term scented is widely used in consumer goods marketing, sometimes alongside terms like 'unscented' or 'fragrance-free' to distinguish between scented and non-scented products.