FAQ
What is the difference between fruity, citrus, and gourmand scents?
The lines can get a little blurry when it comes to scent descriptions, but fruity, citrus, and gourmand scents are not the same thing. According to Jean-Marc Chaillan, associate perfumer at International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), citrus scents are defined by notes such as bergamot, lemon, grapefruit, and mandarin. They “create an immediate impression of brightness, cleanliness and energy.” According to him, citrus scents are often characterized by their “sparkling, uplifting identity.”
Conversely, fruity scents are “defined by juicy, appetizing characteristics, creating an immediate sense of pleasure, modernity and familiarity,” he says. As Chayan explains, fruity notes are used to add volume and dimension to the fragrance. There are also some great innovations happening in the world of fruit fragrances. “Traditionally, it has not been possible to include natural fruits in a perfumer’s palette, but recently IFF has introduced passion fruit and raspberry to the natural palette, which add a new dimension to fruit and create fine aromas,” he says.
For Gourmet, they are all about “luxury and comfort” and are built around edible aromas such as vanilla, caramel, chocolate, coffee and praline, Shayan explains. “Unlike the brightness of citrus and the juiciness of fruity compositions, gourmand spaces are defined by their richness and addictive warmth, creating an emotional connection that is both comforting and inviting.These fragrances evoke palate pleasure through scent, delivering texture, depth and long-lasting impact.”
How can I make the fruity scent last all day?
Fruity scents have a reputation for not lasting as long as gourmet, smoky, or woody scents. Shayan points out that this is often because fruit notes are concentrated in the top and middle notes of a fragrance and dissipate more quickly than the base notes. If you’re concerned about scent longevity or lingering, consider layering your favorite perfume with a matching body lotion or unscented moisturizer. Moisturized skin absorbs fragrances more easily. Concentration is also important. Eau de toilette and cologne fade the quickest, while parfum lasts the longest.
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When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle to best serve you. We verify ingredients, scrutinize brand claims and, when appropriate, research peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing every product included in each review, we rely on experts in fields such as dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine to help vet ingredients and formulations.
For our list of the best fruity perfumes, we considered each product’s performance across five key categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product experience. All products have been judged outstanding in each category by our editorial team of in-house writers, editors, and contributors, in addition to special consideration by our fragrance experts. For more information about our reporting and testing process, please visit our complete review process and methodology page.
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