The key to a scent that lasts all day? A fragrance oil. Adding a thin layer of these aromatic essences before spritzing skin adds something for the scent molecules to cling to, and often enriches the fragrance itself. Fragrance oils hold their own, too – you can absolutely wear them without spraying anything on top. My favorite scent category for oils is musk; this accord goes with almost everything, and can be mixed and matched to your heart’s desire. Here are my very favorites.
Brand: Lake & Skye
Oil Name: 11 11
Accords: Ozonic Accord, Driftwood, White Musk
In One Word: Fresh
My Thoughts: Ozonic, magnetic, and uplifting, this one has an indescribable quality that melds with warm skin and becomes irresistible. Think of a cool, crisp breeze over the mountains, your favorite sweater keeping you warm.
Brand: Dolly Moo
Oil Name: Amber Moon
Accords: Amber, Musk
In One Word: Addictive
My Thoughts: Created to inspire feelings of peace and euphoria, this is a creamy musk that works its magic once in contact with skin. Ethereal yet gentle, it’s a compliment magnet that is at once seductive and innocent. (Fun fact: this local, indie brand has a brick & mortar store in Montclair, NJ!)
Brand: Cyklar
Oil Name: Sex Musk
Accords: Orris, Tonka Bean, Musk
In One Word: Warm
My Thoughts: As the name suggests, this is intimate and sensual – but in the most elegant way, wrapping skin in the coziest cloak of woods with a hint of vanilla. It has a nostalgic quality to it that reminds me of home.
Brand: By Rosie Jane
Oil Name: Rosie
Accords: White Musk, Sweet Rose
In One Word: Soft
My Thoughts: This is clean and sheer, like dappled sunlight in early morning. It is a fragrance that whispers, but never goes fully quiet; I can smell this all day, with little scent surprises hitting my nose at random. It smells like the simple pleasure of a clean house with your favorite person inside.
Brand: Dolly Moo
Oil Name: Egyptian Musk
Accords: Musk
In One Word: Earthy
My Thoughts: Captivating and exotic, this one has a cool cleanliness that makes it perfect for after your “everything shower.” Earthy undertones will make you feel grounded, clear, and calm.
Brand: Al-Rehab
Oil Name: White Musk
Accords: White Musk
In One Word: Soapy
My Thoughts: If you want something clean and simple, White Musk is for you. A tad powdery, with the brightness of foaming white lather, it smells like freshly-scrubbed skin.
Brand: Dolly Moo
Oil Name: Vanilla Musk
Accords: Musk, Vanilla
In One Word: Cozy
My Thoughts: With just a touch of sweetness, this one is meant to encourage strength, comfort, and attraction. Not an overly gourmand vanilla, it makes me smile every time I sniff it.
Brand: Parfums de Coeur
Oil Name: Skin Musk
Accords: Musk, Sandalwood, Floral Notes
In One Word: Comforting
My Thoughts: Like others on this list, this one has a clean vibe – but in a bit of a retro way. This timeless scent profile has been around for decades, and at first sniff I’m transported back in time to an 80s bathroom complete with pink tile and pot-pourri, getting ready to go out.
This article is part of my series on the note of musk. Explore the series:
