The olfactive, or fragrance triangle refers to the pyramid structure in which fragrance notes and ingredients are composed by evaporation time.

Top notes are the first to grace your senses. These notes are typically your first impression of the fragrance, and are light and fresh. Citrus, Green, Aromatic, Aldehydic, and Anisic are some common families that you’d find at the top of the pyramid and can last on the skin between 5 minutes and 2 hours.

Middle, or Heart Notes provide character and intensity. Middle notes follow approximately 10 minutes after application, and can last up to 3 hours. Both top and middle notes coexist as they evaporate. The middle notes begin to dominate the fragrance once the top notes dry down. Families commonly found in middle notes are florals, spices, and fruits.

At the bottom of the pyramid are base notes; these ingredients provide grounding and balance to the accord. These notes appear up to 30 minutes after application and last the longest. Base notes can linger up to 6+ hours on the skin and clothes. These notes typically provide depth to the fragrance and include families like woods, gourmands, and musks.

For the most accurate assessment of a fragrance for personal use; conduct a wear test for a full day to see how the notes react with your skin.