Animalics

Animal musks have been used in perfumery for thousands of years. They have a long history of use in both the East and the West.

Today, most perfume houses worldwide use synthetic musks to act as fixatives and to soften their compositions. However, these synthetic musks can smell quite different from their natural counterparts.

Whether it be Deer Musk, Ambergris, Castoreum, Civet, Skunk, Muskrat or any of the other animalics available, it can be difficult to pinpoint a single aroma that describes the scent of all of them. However, these ingredients tends to make a composition a little thicker, warmer, and more comforting.

In larger doses they can make a perfume smell overtly like unwashed skin and can create a sensuality that you simply cannot get without using natural musk. They also pair beautifully with florals and woods and, overall, act to make a fragrance more rich and full.