Aldehydes Perfume

Aldehydes are organic compounds that can be found in many natural perfume ingredients like rose, vanilla bean, cinnamon, pine, and citrus peel. In many cases, they’re the main reason why these ingredients have such a pleasant aroma. Despite this, however, most aldehydes found in modern perfumes are mere synthetic imitations of the original fragrance. But it doesn’t matter because, synthetic or otherwise, aldehydes and perfumery are inextricably linked, and form the basis of many iconic luxury fragrances from perfumers we know today.

Aldehydes add a sharp, sparkling, somewhat metallic, somewhat clean scent to perfume. They also impart a powdery floral quality and a lingering soapiness, much like freshly washed laundry. They’re often used as top notes, where they’re known for their ability to convey a long-lasting freshness and sharpness. And because of their atmospheric and glamorous qualities, you’ll find aldehydes to be a very popular note used in classic, luxe compositions. In most cases, it’s used to add soft, light nuances to woody blends or to bring a pop of color to floral fragrances.

With their signature sparkle and soapy finish, the best aldehydes perfumes for him and her are both stimulating and glamorous at the same time. Here are some of our favorites (including some that have inspired our own formulations!).

It’s an undisputed fact that aldehydes hit the mainstream after appearing in Chanel’s No. 5 Eau de Parfum, the best-selling fragrance in the history of perfumery. This timeless fragrance is built on the premise of poetic, sensual florals married to a phenomenal concentration of aldehydes. A combination that, fortunately, works out extremely well in its favor (and for its creator, the perfumer Ernest Beaux). The resulting blend is a wonderfully fresh, sleek, unfiltered concoction that is very much Chanel in its purest form. But of course, No. 5 is hardly the only aldehydes fragrance around. Tom Ford’s Metallique Eau de Parfum is another excellent example of this synthetic wonder ingredient at work. Fresh aldehydes, spicy pink pepper, and refreshing bergamot kick off the scent, followed by a lovely floral bouquet and a pleasant woodsy finish. A spellbinding scent that’s perhaps best reserved for evening wear. You’ll also find considerable amounts of aldehydes (the note always seems to be used very liberally) in Byredo’s Blanche Eau de Parfum. This floral bombshell opens with white roses, pink pepper, and aldehydes. A vintage bouquet of violet, neroli, and peony follows this; before fading into a woody, sandalwood, and musk base. Its overall structure is simple and airy, with plenty of aroma to go around.

Exotic, hypnotic, and absolutely intoxicating, Dossier’s aldehydes perfumes may very well surprise you yet with their exciting unforeseen departures, inspired by brands such as Chanel, Tom Ford, Frederic Malle, Byredo, and more. Free shipping. Free returns. All the time. Browse our collection today.