The persistence of natural scents
"How long do natural perfumes last?" "It's completely natural... but then it doesn't last on the skin?"
We hear this question often, very often. Longevity is a frequently discussed topic, both by those who love to wear their perfume all day long and by those who fear its intrusiveness.
Botanical perfumery is characterized by the exclusive use of essential oils and the total absence of synthetic substances, including, of course, those defined as fixatives. The persistence on the skin is therefore that which belongs to the plant in nature and varies from plant to plant: this is one of the main characteristics of a natural perfume, appreciating the living raw material and the message it carries.
It is about savoring the pleasure of perfuming oneself with the peel of a citrus fruit, the petal of a flower, the essence of a pod. Our perfume waters will discreetly accompany you, giving you the unique sensation of carrying a fragment of Nature with you.
The longevity of essential oils
Volatility, or the speed with which essential oils evaporate once exposed to air, varies depending on the plant (or part of the plant) from which the essential oil is distilled and can be classified into top, middle, or base notes.
High or top notes
This category includes the lightest and most volatile essential oils. They are usually the freshest and sharpest, the first to be appreciated. The top note is indeed defined as "the flight of the perfume." Top essential oils act most rapidly on a psychic level and are usually energizing and stimulating, dynamic. If you want to change a mental state or a thought very quickly, it is advisable to use an essential oil of this type. Some examples: Lemon, Mandarin, Orange, Bergamot, Litsea, Eucalyptus, Grapefruit, Lemongrass.
Middle or heart notes
The heart of the perfume is given by moderately persistent notes, which are enveloping and floral, full, sensual. These oils act on the chest level and are often related to different organs of the body, helping to rebalance them. They act on the more emotional aspects, harmonizing moods. They can awaken forgotten sensations. Some examples of heart notes: Ylang ylang, Fennel, Lavender, Chamomile, Jasmine, Rose.
Low or base notes
Base notes emerge more slowly than others but stay with us longer: they constitute the soul of the perfume. They are generally characterized by a rich and deep, spicy, intense fragrance. Base oils are often used to fix other more volatile oils and stabilize them. Their scent is perceived with the lower part of the body; their connection with the Earth is strong. They usually have relaxing properties. Some examples: Cedarwood, Frankincense, Myrrh, Vetiver, Patchouli, Cinnamon.
And you, which notes do you prefer?
A fragrant greeting,
Barbara Pozzi and Olfattiva staff
Discover Olfattiva's Botanical Perfumery Perfume waters and Eau de Toilette based on real essential oils
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