As a fragrance expert, I have witnessed the evolution of the perfume industry over the years. One of the most significant changes has been the rise of natural perfumes. Gone are the days when synthetic chemicals were the norm in perfumes. Today, more and more people are opting for natural perfumes, and for good reason. One of the main concerns with traditional perfumes is the use of synthetic chemicals.
According to the Environmental Working Group, most perfume scents are synthesized from over 3,100 chemical ingredients specific to the fragrance industry. These chemicals can be harmful to our health, especially since our skin absorbs nearly 60% of what we put on it. But with natural perfumes, you don't have to worry about these harmful chemicals. These perfumes are made from natural and organic ingredients, making them safer for both our bodies and the environment.
The Rise of Natural Perfume Brands
In recent years, there has been a surge in natural perfume brands that offer high-quality fragrances without compromising on safety or sustainability. One such brand is Phlur, founded by fashion and beauty influencer Chriselle Lim.Their Missing Person Eau de Parfum is a fresh and floral scent that uses notes like skin musk and neroli flower. Another brand that has made a name for itself in the natural perfume industry is Henry Rose. Founded by actress Michelle Pfeiffer, this brand works closely with organizations like the Environmental Working Group and the Cradle to Cradle Product Innovation Institute to ensure their fragrances meet the highest standards of health, sustainability, transparency, and manufacturing.
My Top Picks for Natural Perfumes
As a fragrance expert, I have tried and tested numerous natural perfumes, and I have to say, there are some standout options that I highly recommend.1.Char by Henry Rose
This is the newest fragrance from Henry Rose, and it has quickly become a personal favorite. The touch of Moroccan orange blossom in this scent is simply divine, and I love that the brand uses recycled glass for their bottles and boxes.2.KNY by Kimberly New York
Kimberly Walker, the owner of Kimberly New York, noticed a lack of representation for black perfumers in the industry and decided to do something about it. Her brand offers 100% organic oils and sustainable ingredients to create unique and beautiful fragrances for all genders.Their Artsy EDP, with notes of crushed violets, apple, and marshmallow fluff, is a must-try.
3.Florgasm by Heretic
If you're looking for a characteristic, floral, and bright scent, look no further than Florgasm by Heretic. With pink pepper, ylang-ylang, and jasmine grandiflora among its notes, this perfume is a true delight for the senses.4.Lake & Skye
This brand offers clean and pleasant fragrances that are perfect for those who enjoy the smell of fresh air or freshly laundered bedding. Their natural ingredients are sourced from countries like Afghanistan, Haiti, Rwanda, Madagascar, India, and Egypt, helping farmers rebuild after wars or conflicts.5.Maison Louis Marie
If you prefer a more subtle yet impactful aromatic experience, try Maison Louis Marie's perfumed oil in roll form. Their Isle perfume is a team favorite with its holiday-inspired notes of citrus, bergamot, cardamom, and sandalwood.The Benefits of Natural Perfumes
Aside from being safer for our health and the environment, natural perfumes also offer other benefits.For one, they tend to have a more unique and complex scent profile compared to traditional perfumes. This is because natural ingredients can vary in scent depending on factors like soil, climate, and harvesting methods. Natural perfumes also tend to be longer-lasting on the skin, as they don't contain any synthetic fixatives that can fade quickly. And for those with sensitive skin or allergies, natural perfumes are a great option as they are less likely to cause irritation or reactions.
The Future of Perfumery
The rise of natural perfumes is just the beginning of a revolution in the fragrance industry. More and more brands are starting to prioritize sustainability and transparency in their production processes, and consumers are becoming more conscious of the products they use on their bodies. As a fragrance expert, I am excited to see where this trend will take us.But one thing is for sure - natural perfumes are here to stay, and I couldn't be happier about it.