perfume terminology
Absolute | Concentrated, highly fragrant mixtures extracted from botanicals using a solvent such as alcohol (ethanol). For example, Jasmin absolute. |
Aldehyde | A type of organic chemical compound that contributes to fresh and citrusy scents. Examples of aldehydes used in fragrances are Aldehyde C-08, Aldehyde C-09, and Aldehyde C-10, which occur naturally in fruits, such as oranges and lemons. |
Allergy | A substance that has the potential to cause an allergic reaction in sensitive people if they come in contact with it. Some ingredients have the potential to cause a contact allergic reaction (such as red, bumpy, or itchy skin). By comparison, irritants are non-allergic triggers that, at some level, may irritate anyone. The source of these reactions can be hard to identify, and they are just as likely to be caused by natural ingredients as lab-created ingredients. Everyone’s skin is different, so see a medical professional with any questions you may have. The fragrance industry supports the disclosure of certain ingredients so that people who may already be allergic can select products that work for them. |
Aromatic | Fragrances created from a woody, herbal base, using scents like thyme, rosemary, or sage. |