What are Citrus Fragrances : How to find the right one for you
Citrus Fragrances give a sense of freshness, they uplift and energise. It allows the wearer to boost their mood and energy levels . Citrus fragrances are especially well suited to the climate of Nigeria which is humid and hot. This type of fragrance cuts through the heat and does not overpower the senses. That’s why they are great for anyone who wants to smell fresh and approachable all day long. They give a powerful ‘hit’ or fresh sensation to the nose when you first smell them.
Why some citrus perfumes don’t last as long
Citrus notes are what the perfumers call ‘volatile molecules’. This means that they are not long lasting by themselves and need to be combined with other notes in order to last longer. Typically they are also paired with other ingredients to give a more rounded composition and long lasting formulation:
How can I find the perfect citrus fragrance for me
Selecting the right citrus perfume for yourself is about knowing which ingredients you love. Think about which perfumes you already love and research the ingredients which are in them. Think about what it is that you love about your favourite scent – is it the first hit of the citrus fragrance or is it the way it lingers on your skin afterwards?
Always ‘try before you buy’
When you know which notes are in your preferred fragrance, then it is easier to research and find a perfume with similar notes. A good tool to use to find similar notes to your perfume is the fragrance search function on fragrantica website. Fragrantica will suggest many fragrances which have similar ingredients, however, there will be many more on the market which will also contain these notes. For that reason it is always best to smell a fragrance in the shop and to apply it on your skin to see how it develops and reacts to your skin.
Citrus and floral
Combining citrus with floral notes gives a more sophisticated and sweeter fragrance. The freshness of the citrus is complemented by the softness of the floral notes, which is why perfumers often pair Jasmine, rose and neroli with citrus perfume notes.
Citrus and Spicy
Spicy notes add dynamism and longevity to citrus notes, for example ginger, cardamon, pimento or black pepper can be added to give zing to a fragrance. These notes are warming, but fresh at the same time, which makes the citrus scent more versatile and possible to wear for evening as well as the daytime.
Citrus and Woody
Blending citrus notes with woody notes like cedar or sandalwood gives a more grounded and sophisticated fragrance. The woody notes make the fragrance last longer and additionally add depth to the citrus notes.
Citrus and Herbal
If you would like more freshness for your citrus fragrance, then herbal notes such as basil, mint and rosemary add a fresh and natural twist.
If you would like more freshness for your citrus fragrance, then herbal notes such as basil, mint and rosemary add a fresh and natural twist. Popular types of citrus fragrance contain lemon, orange, grapefruit and bergamot oils. Orange oil is sweeter, grapefruit more bitter, bergamot more citrus floral and lime is similar to lemon but slightly sharper.
Popular Citrus brands
Famous citrus fragrances include the original Eau Sauvage by Dior, Tom Ford Neroli Portofino, Acqua di Gio, Acqua di Parma Colonia, Chanel Chance and Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue. Citrus notes have also traditionally been a main ingredient in colognes and aftershaves because of their invigorating effect.
Which citrus perfumes from The Scent of Dunes collection have this fresh, energising profile?
Aromatic Wood by The Scent of Dunes
Aromatic Wood contains bergamot, so the citrus hit is more refined and has floral sweetness. Because the fragrance contains a wide range of woody notes in the base, it has the power to remain on your skin for a long time.
Valour by The Scent of Dunes
Valour contains oranges and lemons, so its citrus burst is a little sweeter. The combination of floral notes, spices and lavender makes the freshness linger on your skin. Cedar wood and patchouli give an earthy base continue the story to boost the notes and give power and sophistication.
Advice on finding your perfect citrus fragrance
Don’t rely only on recommendations online.
They can help you discover new options, but may not suit your skin.
Fragrance is very personal and reacts differently on each person.
Start by researching and shortlisting suitable scents.
Test them one by one on your skin. Notice how each one makes you feel.
Check how the scent changes over time.
This is the best way to find a fragrance you truly love.
If you enjoyed this article, you might enjoy reading about the ingredients and personality of our first four perfume launches of The House of Scent of Dunes.