What Is Sillage in Perfume?

When browsing through fragrances at the perfumery, you’re likely to hear the word sillage. So, what does it mean, and does it make a difference when picking out a new perfume?

Today, we’ll be explaining all things sillage and how it can take your understanding of fragrance to the next level.

What Is Perfume Sillage?

Sillage is actually a French word that translates to “wake,” as in the wake of a boat. These are the ripples that trail behind a boat in the water. 

Fragrance sillage is the lingering aroma of your perfume that other people can smell even after you’ve walked away. See the connection?

Why Does Sillage Matter?

If you’re in a situation where you want to create a lasting impression, sillage is a subtle way to stay in the minds of the people around you.

For example, the right level of sillage can leave a lasting impression after job interviews, dates, or social outings. Thanks to the sillage in your perfume, those around you will continue to smell the lingering scents of your fragrance after you’ve said goodbye. 

If you really want to stay on their mind, wear the same scent the next time you see them, too. This way, when the scent reaches their olfactory receptors, they’re reminded of the other fun times you shared.

Sillage also matters to the wearer themselves. When you’re wearing a fragrance strong enough to leave a scent trail, you’re going to be able to smell it, too. As long as it's a scent you love, it can act as a mood booster throughout the day.

Finally, sillage is also a practical element for anyone who wants their perfume to last all day. Fragrances can fade over time and often require reapplication — but a scent with good sillage can generally be smelled for longer than a standard perfume. 

Want to further maximize the scent throw? Apply your perfume after you’ve put on your lotion to keep your skin moisturized. Doing this gives the fragrance something to stick to, and can help the scent last longer.

How Does Sillage Work?

Sillage strength is largely based on the ingredients in a perfume. 

The top notes of a fragrance are usually what gets smelled first. They influence the initial sillage and determine which scents are detected right away. The middle notes, or heart notes, don’t evaporate as quickly as the top notes, allowing them to stay in the air. 

The base notes are most important when it comes to determining sillage. These are usually the least volatile notes in the mix, meaning they evaporate the slowest. The ingredients used as base notes are most responsible for determining how long your perfume lingers, and what smells stay behind. Generally speaking, the heavier the base notes, the higher the sillage.

The alcohol content of your product can also determine the sillage of your fragrance. For instance, eau de toilette perfumes have a high alcohol content, which helps spread the fragrance. This gives it a sillage that is strong at the start, but doesn’t last very long.

The concentration of your perfume oil can also affect its sillage. Eau de parfums have high oil concentrations. Upon first smell, the fragrance may seem soft, but these perfumes are well-equipped to leave a scent trail.

As strange as it may seem, your body chemistry can also impact the sillage in your perfume. Factors like skin type and pH levels can influence the way each formula interacts with your body. Use biology to your advantage and apply your fragrance to areas with the most body heat, like your pulse points, to make it last longer.

What To Know About High vs. Low Sillage

Before settling on a perfume with high or low sillage, think about the characteristics of both to see which is truly right for you.

High sillage fragrances contain powerful ingredients that leave a lasting impression. As previously explained, this typically means it features strong base notes. Popular examples are patchouli and amber wood, which can help you be perceived as bold and assertive.

Low sillage fragrances contain light ingredients that smell fresh, floral, and clean. The notes are more volatile and evaporate quickly. This means it can be smelled up close, but doesn't spread very far or linger for long. This type of scent can be seen as soft and delicate.

A Scent That Lingers

The sillage of a perfume can have a real effect on how you navigate the world around you. Pay attention to the alcohol content, concentration levels, and notes in the fragrances you wear because even the smallest ingredients can make a big difference.

Whether you opt for something gentle and intimate or bold and impressive, the bottom line is that the perfect scent for you is the scent that you like best — and at Snif, there’s something for everyone.

Sources:

Olfactory receptor function | PubMed

How to pick the right moisturizer for your skin | AAD

How scent, emotion, and memory are intertwined — and exploited | Harvard Gazette

The evaporation of volatile liquids | ScienceDirect