Citrus notes smell like the exact moment you peel a fresh lemon, lime, or orange—that bright burst of zesty oil that catches the light and makes your mouth water. It's crisp, clean, and intensely alive; imagine the sharp, almost peppery tang of grapefruit or the sweet-tart zing of bergamot. These notes sparkle on your skin like carbonated sunshine, immediately making everything feel fresher, more energised, and utterly refreshing. They're the fragrance equivalent of opening a window on a spring morning.
Citrus oils come from the peel (or zest) of citrus fruits grown primarily in Italy, Spain, Brazil, and the Mediterranean. Cold-pressed extraction—where mechanical pressure squeezes the oil from the rind—is the traditional method, capturing the fruit's natural essence. Bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit are most prized in perfumery. Synthetics like limonene and citral now supplement natural oils, allowing perfumers consistent quality whilst reducing agricultural pressure. Citrus has been treasured in fragrance for centuries, from Renaissance court perfumes to modern eau de toilette.
Citrus notes are the energising opening act of most fragrances—they grab attention immediately and fade relatively quickly (usually within 15 minutes). Perfumers layer them with warmer base notes to create longevity. They brighten compositions, add sparkle, and lift heavier ingredients. Often used in unisex fragrances, citrus acts as a palate cleanser in complex scents, preventing them from feeling heavy or cloying.
Surprising harmonies
De Ruy
Parfums de Marly
Pereja
Davidoff
Abercrombie & Fitch
Guerlain
Florascent
Estēe Lauder
Lorenzo Villoresi
Perris Monte Carlo
Givenchy
Dior