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The 15 Best Clean Perfumes Worth Adding to Your Rotation
From bright floral scents to earthy, woody notes
There's more to a few spritzes of your favorite fragrance than a swirl of musky, floral, or fruit-forward notes: They tend to feature a rather mysterious combination of ingredients. Since companies are technically not obligated to disclosure every last item included in their products, what makes a scent is often clumped together as "fragrance." (Of the possible 3,619 fragrance- and functional-based ingredients listed by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) as of 2022, typical perfume and cologne mixtures can feature up to several hundred different chemicals, many of them synthetic.)
Shop our Editors′ Favorite Clean Perfumes
While a few sprays of a synthetic scent might seem like no big deal, several studies suggest a link between the presence of additives like phthalates, aldehydes, and parabens and health issues ranging from allergies to reproductive disorders to some types of cancers. The good news is that thanks to the surge of organic aromas, the industry is slowly but surely pulling back the curtain on fragrances. “Fragrance transparency is growing, and consumers are eager to know the stories behind the materials that make their fragrances unique," Donna Ramanauskas, senior perfumer at Agilex Fragrances previously told Bazaar.
To help minimize added synthetics in your beauty rotation—and prove that less can truly be more—we've pulled together the best natural perfumes loved by shoppers and experts alike to enhance your go-to scent rotation. From 100-percent natural picks to fragrance finds with ingredients you won't need a translator for, these safe scents will make your next spritz smell even sweeter.
Pros
- Vegan
- Has a sustainable glass container and biodegradable cap
Cons
- Some people felt the scent disappeared quickly
If you're a fan of sensual, airy fragrances, you'll love this salty (in the best sense) take on a warm and spicy beachy scent. Whiffs of Tahitian tiare and ylang-ylang are grounded with ambergris to provide a tinge of Tropicana. (You'll definitely live in it all summer long, but the alluring scent is subtle enough to enjoy year-round.) Scent aside, Ellis Brooklyn packaged this pick in a reusable glass container and biodegradable cap.
Customer review: "Wow, this is a lovely fragrance. Not your typical coconut/sunscreen scent, but still so summery. To me, it smells like fresh, clean skin. It has a powdery floral note but also vanilla and I definitely get the salt as well. It reminds me of a beach bonfire, your skin still warm from a day spent in the sun. I love spraying this after a bath or shower, it just makes me feel comforted and clean." —SarahR3487
| Size | 0.34 oz/ 10 mL |
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Phlur Missing Person Eau de Parfum
Pros
- Uses sustainably sourced ingredients
- A glass container and magnetic cap help reduce plastic usage
Cons
- A few customers noted that the bottle is prone to leakage
Created by fashion and beauty influencer Chriselle Lim, Phlur's Missing Person Eau de Parfum offers just enough of a scent without smelling overbearing, using notes like skin musk, neroli blossom, and Australian sandalwood oil.
"As I've been going through a transition in my life—I was married for quite some time—and I think one of the hardest things during that time in my life was just that void, like waking up to an empty bed, you know, no one next to me," Lim previously told Bazaar. "I just felt like that warmth was gone, and it took me a while to get used to. So for the very first fragrance, I wanted to capture kind of skin and warmth, and something that just felt really close—almost like second skin. If nude were a scent, it would be Missing Person."
The addition of other notes like jasmine, blonde wood, and orange flower make this scent musky, yet approachable.
Customer review: "After watching all of the TikTok’s on this perfume, I absolutely had to try it. I’m a huge sucker for viral products, but am usually disappointed. Not in this case! The perfume smells like when you nestle your face into the neck of the person you love the most, or smelling your S.O.’s hoodie when you miss them—I get the same exact feeling when I smell this! It's light, airy, musky, and powdery, but in the best way possible." —Rio B.
Pros
- Made with natural and vegan essential oils
- Recyclable packaging
Cons
- Pricier than other scents on our list
Bond No. 9's Scent of Peace is one of our favorite fragrances of all time. Notes of lemon, raspberry, and blackcurrant are offset by cedarwood essential oil and musk—offering some nuance to the traditional fruity fragrance. Even better? This crowd-pleaser is now offered in a gorgeous, clean version, complete with natural and vegan essential oils. It's also worth noting that the bottle itself is 100 percent recyclable.
Customer review: "When I say this turns heads, I’m not lying. Purchased it after getting a sample with another order, and people stopped me to ask what I was wearing. I could smell it on my skin all day! I could purchase this five more times and not get bored with it." —Elena
Pros
- Unisex
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Some reviewers say the scent is too fruit-forward
Apricot, clementine, and iris work together to create a vegan perfume that Snif calls "charisma in a bottle." You might buy fragrance for its clean, personable aroma you can wear on the regular, but its longevity is what will make you a repeat customer. While everyone's spray threshold varies, the brand claims that a single 30-milliliter bottle can last up to six months. Oh, and did we mention that the blend is also cruelty-free and formulated with industry-clean standards—all without the use of parabens, preservatives, and phthalates?
Customer review: "This has really grown on me! At first the fruitiness was a bit much for me, but as you wear it dries down into this soft, warm, woodsy yet juicy skin scent unlike anything else I've tried. Cozy yet unexpected. It lasts for ages on my clothes and my skin: Sometimes around 24 hours if I don't wash it off first." —Gabriela S.
Pros
- Great for sensitive skin
Cons
- Not ideal for those who prefer deeper, more robust scents
Florals? In a fragrance? Well, thanks to Heretic's Florgasm, a pedal-powered perfume can be rather groundbreaking. Pink pepper, bergamot, and sweet coriander zhuzh up a delicate mix of tuberose milk and exotic grandiflorum jasmine. (Florals with a twist, if you will.) Bonus points: This feminine scent features an assortment of carefully curated ingredients that are gentle enough for sensitive skin.
Customer review: "Gorgeous floral without being that sickly sweet smell that some [fragrances can have]. Love love love it. Doesn't try too hard. It's complex and delicious." —Megan
Malin+Goetz Cannabis Eau de Parfum
Pros
- Paraben- and sulfate-free
Cons
- Some reviewers wish the scent lasted longer on the skin
Looking for a fragrance with a kick? Enter Cannabis from Malin+Goetz. Don't let its name fool you: This eau de parfum isn't considerably more elevated than the pungent scent often associated with cannabis. Here, magnolia, patchouli, and black pepper work together to add some heat to standard earthy notes. The modern apothecary perfected the balance between spice and smoke to serve up an inviting scent that's love at first whiff.
Customer review: "I purchased this after buying the oil—just love the way it smells. It does initially feel more masculine, but mellows down to a very subtle and delicious smell. It’s one of my favorites from this brand." —Flowers
Pros
- Unisex
Cons
- Sold in very small quantities
Boy Smells might be known and loved for its illuminating candles, but you don't want to sleep on the brand's fragrances. In fact, its Hinoki Fantôme makes it possible to get a whiff of a lush forest—all without stepping a foot outdoors. This pick comes courtesy of woods aromas woven throughout the top, heart, and base notes. (Think: Hinoki, cedarwood, oakmoss, and fir balsam.) Meanwhile, hints of tobacco leaves and smoked leather deliver the musk—as if you're enjoying a private campfire. Boy Smells markets its offerings—including Hinoki Fantôme—as genderless, which means it's made for everyone.
Customer review: "I’m absolutely in love with this scent! It’s not something I would normally go for being a little darker and spicy but it’s amazing! With Japanese hinoki woods and earthy spice combined with notes of tobacco leaves, smoked leather—literally enticing! And oak moss yet it gives a hint of sweet as well. It’s very unique and would be a perfect signature scent! This one is a must try!" —Lindsey
Pros
- A mix of sweet and savory offer more nuance to vanilla
- Long-lasting formula
Cons
- Some reviewers say notes of vanilla aren't prominent enough
We're not going to sugarcoat it: Vanilla can be a very polarizing scent. One false move and the sweet scent can smell cheap or juvenile. But leave it to the 7 Virtues to find a solid balance by mixing vanilla with myrrh and sandalwood.
This popular fragrance is hypoallergenic, and made with a combination of sugar cane alcohol and essential oils. As an added bonus, the company helps provide education and healthcare to a sustainable cooperative in Madagascar. Plus, the bottle is just really, really pretty.
Customer review: "This is such an addictive scent. I am a big fan of Le Labo's Santal 33, but on my skin it was a bit too harsh and pickle-y. Santal vanille is like the younger sister of Santal 33 with the same DNA, but much more soft and rounded. It is everything I have ever wanted in a perfume! I can't stop smelling my wrist after spraying it!! I will continue to repurchase over and over again." —Karenegg
Henry Rose Jake's House Eau de Parfum
Pros
- Made with transparent ingredients
- Formula is cruelty-free and vegan
Cons
- Some reviewers say the scent isn't long-lasting
For a natural fragrance with star power, Henry Rose has you covered. Michelle Pfeiffer—yes, that Michelle Pfeiffer—founded the brand with safe fragrances that didn't compromise quality or beauty. Not only are these perfumes made with 100 percent transparent ingredients, but they're also cruelty-free and hypoallergenic. (Not to mention they're made with zero parabens and phthalates.) But why Henry Rose's celeb-backed clean ethics are certainly a draw, the fragrances simply smell good. With notes of marine, citrus, and musk, Jake's House smells so fresh and so clean.
Customer Review: "I can’t stop reaching for this scent. It’s beachy and aquatic and just summer! Encapsulated ! Tried it in the discovery set and will be buying it in full size! The marine note is just gorgeously done."—ChickenCorg
Pros
- Formulated in small batches
Cons
- Scent is too sweet for some reviewers
For a daily, budget-friendly perfume that's not overpowering, consider an inexpensive but high-quality option from Pacifica Beauty. With over a dozen cheery scents to choose from, each option is formulated in small batches using natural, corn-based alcohol. Topping the list of must-shop scents is the brand's French Lilac, which boasts a complex mix of nectarine, ylang-ylang, heliotrope, magnolia leaves, and, of course, lilac.
Customer review: "I ordered the French Lilac and the Moonray Blossom. I am not a perfume/fragrance expert but I do know what I like and I positively love these fragrances, They are subtle and not overpowering (you could survive an elevator ride with someone wearing one of these scents). I am especially fond of the French Lilac as I grew up in an area of the country where lilacs grow freely, and this perfume smells exactly like those bushes. " —Missy
Pros
- Fits in any purse or carry-on
Cons
- Some reviewers find the fragrance too strong
Looking for a fragrance to apply on the fly? Kai's signature scent is available in a travel-sized, rollerball version that quite literally glides onto the skin. While this pick earns top marks for being small enough to fit in a purse, backpack, or carry-on, its scent shouldn't be underplayed. This gardenia-forward perfume mingles with other, unspecified "exotic florals" to evoke the sensation of a balmy afternoon on an island far, far away...
Customer review: "I fell in love with the scent years ago at a spa. I immediately recognized it and was transported to a tropical destination I took for an anniversary. I was so happy to find this again at Anthropologie! I keep the roller in my purse and the perfume at home along with the body wash in the shower. It's a favorite find!" —Sheilarenee
Pros
- Formulated with natural ingredients
Cons
- May not be ideal for those who prefer muskier scents
Citrus notes are known for their uplifting, energizing effects; a pick-me-up in a bottle, if you will. For a citrus-forward scent that's also made with clean ingredients, Sana Jardin's Berber Blonde is as good as they come. Bitter orange and orange flower water are paired with hints of musk, neroli, and bergamot to create a fruity fragrance that smells fancy, not in your face. Scent aside, Sana Jardin uses a flower-recycling process to create naturally derived fragrances—driving social change.
Customer Review: "Almost as similar as the orange blossom in my grandmas garden in Morocco. As a Berber person (preferred term is actually amazing), I cannot stress enough in the importance of orange blossom in the kitchen and cosmetics. This scent brings me bag to my childhood and it’s perfect for summer or warm spring."—Aziza
Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt Perfume Oil
Pros
- Unisex
- Concentrated formula is long-lasting
Cons
- Using a perfume oil may require a learning curve for some
If you're looking for a fragrance with an added oomph, perfume oils are typically more concentrated and stay on your skin for longer. Think of Maison Louis Marie's Bois de Balincourt as the best of both worlds: Sandalwood, vetiver, cedarwood, and cinnamon together to create a rich aroma that will linger all day long. As for its clean beauty cred? The brand uses naturally-derived fragrances and teamed up with 1 Percent for the Planet to help create a brighter, greener future.
Customer review: "This perfume oil lasts well, smells heavenly and has easily recyclable packaging. What else could you ask for?" —Alyssa
Pros
- Unisex
- Features a vegan, non-toxic formula
Cons
- Some say the scent is a touch too strong
While the best fragrances know no bounds—or gender lines—there are some scents that are considered "too masculine" or "too feminine." However, DedCool's Fragrance 03 Blonde serves up a perfume that's suitable for everyone. (Yes, everyone.) This vegan perfume features a robust, thoughtful mélange of black violet, saffron, and rose. Plus, DedCool uses earth-friendly packing to minimize its environmental impact.
Customer review: "Long lasting and smells fresh and sweet. Light and not overwhelming. Makes a subtle statement." —Shira B.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
Cons
- Not suitable for those who prefer musky scents
- Unless you like all five scents, you may be wasting some perfumes
Feeling non-committal? This sample kit of five individual scents makes it easy to test out each of the bestsellers. (Highlights include the fruit-forward Peach Fields, an oh-so-sweet Vanilla Sky, and Coconut Grove, which is laced with ambrox and bergamot.) Plus, each of Skylar's fragrances are non-toxic, clean, and hypoallergenic, so you can rest easy knowing they're good for you, too.
Customer review:"This is an absolutely wonderful way to help a new customer find the perfect scent or scents for them! I didn’t have a clue where to start, the scent experience has been wonderful! I easily found the scents I love and the ones that aren’t for me! On top of that you get the gift card to buy your favorite scent! Brilliant! Very pleased, thank you!!" —Sarah M.
Meet the experts
- Donna Ramanauskas is a senior perfumer at Agilex Fragrances.
- Vince Spinnato is a cosmetic chemist, perfumer, and certified nose.
What makes a fragrance formula clean?
The beauty world has embraced clean shampoos, foundations, and deodorants, so why not embrace natural perfumes, too? "Natural fragrances are complex formulations that contain aromatic raw materials that derive only from nature and are extracted via steam distillation or water," Vince Spinnato, cosmetic chemist, perfumer, and certified nose notes. "They include trees, raw fruits, herbs, leaves, seeds, roots, and diverse woods. Natural fragrances are exclusively derived from natural-origin materials, including essential oils and distillates."
Clean is a moving target with no real definition and can mean anything from alcohol-free to free of essential oils. Quality, plant-based essential oils used as fragrances can be extremely beneficial for your skin, but they can also be irritants—and therefore considered toxic—at certain levels. How the essential oil is processed also matters.
Several beauty retailers, like Credo and Sephora monitor the levels and quality of essential oils in the beauty products they stock to ensure safety, but consumers need to know the risks when buying directly from independent or conventional essential oil brands.
How can I ensure I'm using a clean, non-toxic perfume?
Professionals recommend taking a closer look at the list of ingredients used in your favorite fragrances, along with the sourcing process of any essential oils that are included in their formulas. Are the blends considered natural and organic? Are the listed ingredients farmed responsibly? It can also be helpful to cross-reference primary ingredients found in perfumes with a reputable third party, like the Environmental Working Group.
How long do clean perfumes last?
Clean, natural fragrances might be free of harsh chemicals, but they don't have that long of a shelf-life. "Synthetic fragrance notes last longer as fixatives than their natural counterparts," says the expert. "Natural fragrances usually have a life span of about two and one-half years, while synthetic fragrances are known to retain their scent in a bottle for up to five years." When in doubt, you can always check a fragrance's expiration date, which is generally printed at the bottom of the bottle or on its packaging.
Olivia Fleming is the Features Director at HarpersBAZAAR.com, and Jenna Rosenstein is the Beauty Director at HarpersBAZAAR.com. Two years ago, Olivia and Jenna started casually sharing links with each other about clean beauty. What started out as a hobby (from disecting the lastest research to discovering the most innovative new products) quickly became an obession. But they soon realized that the business of clean beauty was as confusing as it was compelling, thanks to a lot of confliciting data and obscure marketing jargon. To separate science from science fiction, Jenna and Olivia spoke with leading beauty experts; pored over studies and data; and swiped, swatched, and spritzed hundreds of clean hair and skincare products to get to the root of what it really means to be clean and natural in the realm of beauty.
Kelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos.
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