Top, middle and base notes describe how a fragrance is perceived as it develops. They help you read perfumery descriptions. They do not supply a blend's ingredient list or an essential-oil recipe.
Understand the three descriptions
Top notes refer to the opening impression. Middle or heart notes describe character that becomes apparent as the opening changes. Base notes concern the impression that persists. Perfumer Karen Gilbert explains that these layers overlap instead of appearing in a strict sequence.
Do not read a fragrance pyramid as a stopwatch. "Top note" alone does not establish a precise duration for a particular product. A named note also does not necessarily represent one actual ingredient.
The eoASSIST oil reference
Search for oils by name and open their reference entries.
Read the description without filling gaps
| Description | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Top | What does the writer identify as the opening impression? |
| Middle / heart | Which character is described as the fragrance develops? |
| Base | How is the persisting impression described? |
| Ingredients | Where is the actual product composition listed separately? |
Record your own observation
Use two columns: "manufacturer's description" and "my impression". Write your own words and date in the second. Preserve a difference instead of changing your observation to fit an advertised pyramid.
This organizes a note, rather than directing how to apply or inhale an oil. Follow a product's own instructions when encountering it. The worksheet does not establish mixing proportions.
Connect a note with an oil name
If the description names a particular oil, copy its complete name and look it up in eoASSIST. Check the package separately. The scent-note worksheet helps organize your own record. Linking a note with a mood or advertising image does not prove a medical effect.
Source
Karen Gilbert: Top Middle and Base Notes in Perfumery, checked on 11 November 2026. We used the terms and explanation of overlapping layers. We added no universal evaporation times or formulas.
The eoASSIST oil reference
Search for oils by name and open their reference entries.