Almond Scent in Perfumery

What is Almond Used for in Perfume?

Almond is a commonly used scent in perfume development, typically in the form of almond oil or absolute (an extract made from the seeds of the almond tree). With its sweet, slightly nutty aroma, almond is utilized as a base note in perfume formulations, creating a pleasant sense of complexity and depth. Almond oil is a natural fixative, working to extend the longevity of a perfume’s fragrance on the skin.

Almond oil is also used in soaps, lotions, and other personal care products to provide moisturizing and skin-nourishing properties.

Origin:

Almonds have been used in perfumes since ancient times, when they were widely popular as a natural source of fragrance. Native to the Middle East, almonds have been cultivated for thousands of years.

In ancient Egypt, almonds were frequently used for perfume and incense; in traditional Chinese medicine, they are often relied upon to treat many different ailments.

Function:

Almonds are regularly used as a base note in perfumes, because their strong, long-lasting aroma can help anchor the fragrance’s other notes. You will often see the scent of almonds combined with similarly sweet and nutty notes, such as vanilla or caramel. Together, these notes create a layered, complex fragrance.

Ingredient Type:

Almond aromatic formats are considered natural, because they are derived directly from almond nuts. There are some perfumes that contain synthetic almond compounds, but these are usually used as a means to enhance - not replace - natural almond aroma.

Scent Profile:

Almond scent is characterized as sweet and nutty with a hint of woodiness. It often evokes feelings of warmth and comfort without being overpowering.

Variations in Perfumery:

There are three basic forms of almonds used in perfumery:

• Almond extract: Made by extracting the essential oils and other key compounds from almonds, almond extract is generally used for its distinct aroma.
• Almond oil: This clear, smooth oil is extracted from the kernels of almonds, and can be used both for its aroma and as a carrier oil for other perfume ingredients.
• Synthetic almond-scented compounds: These lab-produced chemicals are intended to mimic or enhance the aroma of almonds, and can be incorporated into a broad range of fragrance types.

What Fragrance Family are Almonds In?

Almonds fall into a subfamily in the Fruity fragrance family, on the edge between floral and fresh. A category of scents that is characterized by its nutty, slightly sweet, and comforting qualities. Other scents include hazelnut, cashew, and pistachio.

Phlur Perfumes Containing Almonds:

No Phlur fragrances utilize almond materials at this time.