The magic of musk in perfumery
Musk, a beloved fragrance ingredient, is renowned for its rich and long-lasting aroma. Originally derived from the glands of musk deer, this process unfortunately led to the endangerment of these animals. Today, nearly all musk in perfumes is synthetic, known as "white musk." White musks offer a clean, fresh scent akin to just-washed linen, although some perfumes still retain animal undertones to mimic the original musk.
Our favourite musky perfumes
The shift from natural to synthetic musk
In perfumery, musks serve a critical technical function as fixatives, ensuring that a fragrance lasts longer. Historically, animal ingredients like civet, castoreum, ambergris, and hyraceum were used alongside musk. Modern perfumery has largely shifted to synthetic alternatives for ethical reasons.
Animal notes, valued since their discovery by Alexander the Great in 330 BC, were prized for their impressive aromas and longevity. Used sparingly, these notes added softness and sophistication to perfumes without being overpowering. They were particularly prominent in early 20th-century perfumes, enhancing their sensual aura.
How does musk smell and what types of musk are there?
There are three main types of synthetic musks: aromatic nitromusks, polycyclic musks, and macrocyclic musks such as Exaltone. The first two types are common in cosmetics and detergents but have faced safety concerns, leading to usage restrictions. Macrocyclic musks are seen as safer alternatives and are gaining popularity.
Musk, in its various forms, remains an indispensable base note in perfumery with a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. The term "musk" originates from the Greek 'moskhos,' via Persian 'mushk' and Sanskrit 'muṣka,' meaning 'testicle,' referring to the musk gland's shape. Perfumers experiment with a range of synthetic musk notes to create intoxicating accords. These notes provide a clean, transparent, velvety effect, sometimes with a slight animalic facet.
Musky, clean and comfy: Le Musc et La Peau
What are iconic musk perfumes?
Perfume Lounge offers a variety of musk-centric perfumes:
- Musk - Lorenzo Villoresi
- Le Musc Et La Peau - Pierre Guillaume
- Milky Musk - Parle Moi de Parfum
- Musc Tonkin - Parfum d'Empire
- Musc Oli - Caron
- Musc Intense - Nicolai
- Hot Cotton - Baruti
Other iconic musk perfumes are:
- White Musk - The Body Shop
- Musk - Alyssa Ashley
- Musc Ravageur - Frederic Malle
- Musk - Kiehl's
- Musc de Khoublai Khan - Serge Lutens
- Musc for Her - Narciso Rodriguez
- Parisian Musc - Matiere Premiere
- Another 13 - Le Labo
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