The world of essences It is fascinating and more and more people are interested in it. However, not many people know what its differences and similarities are with perfumes. How about joining us to discover them?
Mint, orange blossom, lemon, lavender, elderberry... Few things are as pleasant and evocative as perfumes . However, if we want to make the most of all their possibilities, we must familiarize ourselves with the terminology of this world (aroma, cologne, fragrance, etc.).
Perfumes and essences: what each thing is
Perfumes, fragrances, aromas, essences... The truth is that even expert perfumers use these terms as synonyms . However, each of them has its own meaning, so it is worth starting by clarifying them.
- Aroma : means “very pleasant smell”, which is not necessarily related to the perfume industry.
- Fragrance : is the aroma given off by a product linked to the field of perfumery (perfumes, colognes, essences).
- Perfume : is the result of combining an aromatic substance (natural essential oil and/or synthetic essence) with an aroma diluent and fixative. In addition, preservatives, colorants and antioxidants can be added.
- Cologne or eau de cologne : is a type of perfume characterized by a lower concentration of the aromatic substance. Thus, if perfumes contain 30% essences, colognes only have 8%.
- Essence : It is the basis on which the concepts of fragrance, perfume and cologne are based: their raw material.
Difference between essence and aroma
Essential oils and aromatic essences are often spoken of as if they were the same thing. But they are not! Pay attention to the nuance that differentiates both terms:
- He essential oil It is the oily substance that contains the essence. This compound is of natural origin and contains certain active ingredients together with aromatic elements, and can be used for therapeutic purposes.
- The Aromatic essence is the base odour of essential oil (e.g. jasmine). It is a product that can be of natural or artificial origin and is used exclusively to make perfumery products.
As you can see, the concept and uses of essential oils go beyond those of perfume essences. Moreover, the origin of these oils is always natural, which is not always the case with aromatic essences.
What are natural essences?
According to what we have seen, natural essences are the components responsible for providing aroma to the perfume and cologne that have been obtained from plants . That is, it is an odorizing element of the essential oil extracted or distilled from seeds, leaves, flowers or roots.
Perfume essences of natural origin are currently experiencing a real golden age . On the one hand, the freshness and spontaneity of their aromas are highly valued. On the other hand, there is a clear trend towards betting heavily on cosmetic products derived from nature.
Oriental natural essences
Natural essences from the East will conquer you with their exoticism and sensuality . Some highly valued aromas such as Ylang-Ylang, Sandalwood and Ginger belong to this category.
Culinary spices
This type of natural essence is strongly linked to gastronomy. Here we can include aromas as delicious and irresistible as mint, cinnamon or vanilla.
Citrus perfume essences
The lightness and freshness These natural essences make them a clear favourite when it comes to creating perfumes full of vitality. Without a doubt, the aromas of lemon, lime or mint will be your best allies during the summer months.
Flower essences
Natural essences from flowers have been the very definition of perfume for centuries. In fact, roses, jasmines and peonies are a traditional resource when it comes to making perfumes. lifelong fragrances .
Perfume essences from wood
There is something deeply comforting and authentic in the so-called woody essences. Not in vain, they are perfect for creating fragrances that can make a difference. A good example of this is found in the aromas of cedar, cypress and fir.
Which essence smells better?
“Which scent smells the best?” Every perfume lover has asked themselves this question more than once! Of course, we can’t give you a single answer , as it all depends on your own olfactory preferences and the occasion on which you are going to use that fragrance.
Beyond personal tastes, the truth is that there is a list of aromatic essences that please everyone . Choosing them in your perfume is, therefore, a sure success. Do you want to know which ones they are?
- Lemon : its aroma is synonymous with cleanliness and is frequently used in children's colognes.
- Jasmine : the voluptuousness of this sweet and penetrating scent makes it unmistakable.
- Orange blossom : it is one of the most used essences due to its powerful and pleasant fragrance.
- Mint : Possibly the most refreshing scent a perfume can have.
- Sandalwood : This is your best option when you are looking for a powerful aroma full of personality.
- Rose : This timeless classic holds a place of honour in the creation of the most emblematic perfumes.
- Vanilla : its caramel scent is ideal for taking us back to childhood.
What do essences and perfumes have in common?
The essence is to perfume what the atom is to matter . It is true that the formulation of perfumes is enormously complex, and can reach dozens and dozens of components; however, the aromas provided by the essences are the minimum common denominator indispensable to create that fragrance.
As you may have noticed throughout this post, essence and perfume are two closely linked concepts . In fact, one could not exist without the other (which plays a key role in its development).
Therefore, the Intense and pleasant fragrance This is what essences and perfumes have in common.
In short, aromatic essences (which should not be confused with essential oils) are a fundamental component of any perfume . Although they can be of artificial or natural origin, the latter are particularly appreciated when creating fragrances. What are you waiting for to choose yours?