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The 18 Best Clean Perfumes Worth Adding to Your Rotation

From bright floral scents to earthy, woody notes.

By Olivia Fleming & Jenna Rosenstein
best clean perfumes in 2022
Courtesy of Credo Beauty/DedCool

Read the back of any bottle in your medicine cabinet, and we're betting you'll find the catch-all term "fragrance" listed as one of the first ingredients—with the exception of some of the best clean perfumes. As companies have no legal obligation to disclose the exact combination of components included in their products (often considered proprietary information), it's easy for manufacturers to sneak in a number of undesirable—and potentially harmful—ingredients under the umbrella term. “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.com.

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. And, according to a 2018 study, these formulas can also emit the same amount of chemical vapors as petroleum emissions from cars. The vapors—also known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs—react with proteins in our body, which can result in physical immune responses like breathing issues, migraines, hormone disruption, skin irritation, and more, even potentially compounding into long-term health effects.

Shop Our Editors′ Favorite Clean Perfumes

  • Classic Eau de Parfum in Pure Soap

    A Soapy Essential

    Clean Classic Eau de Parfum in Pure Soap

    $44 at Amazon
    Read more
  • Missing Person Eau de Parfum

    An Eau de Parfum That Smells Like Your Skin, But Better

    Phlur Missing Person Eau de Parfum

    Read more
  • Santal Vanille Eau de Parfum

    An Organic Fragrance

    The 7 Virtues Santal Vanille Eau de Parfum

    Read more
  • Island Vanilla Perfume

    A Top-Rated Favorite on Amazon

    Pacifica Island Vanilla Perfume

    Read more
  • Madie Perfume

    A Fresh, Floral Perfume

    by/ rosie jane Madie Perfume

    Read more

To add a bit more simplicity to your go-to scent rotation (in a good way), we've pulled together a few of the best clean fragrances editors and shoppers love. Featuring top-rated, 100 percent natural picks to fragrance staples with ingredients you won't need a translator for, these coveted selects are making beauty safer and more enjoyable with their total formula transparency.


A Soapy Essential

Clean Classic Eau de Parfum in Pure Soap

Classic Eau de Parfum in Pure Soap
A Soapy Essential

Clean Classic Eau de Parfum in Pure Soap

$44 at Amazon
Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • Subtle yet impactful
Cons

    Over 2,400 Amazon customers are adding Clean's range of—well, clean—fragrances to their rotations, which are available in up to 16 scent varieties. This Pure Soap version from the brand combines notes like mandarin, jasmine, and sandalwood to boost the power of your favorite in-shower bar soap or body wash.

    Customer review:

    "Okay. So the smell is amazing. Like clean soap, fresh grass, cucumbers, lilac, lavender, roses and every other fresh flower. Maybe a bit of black pepper. It's like getting out of a shower and being immersed in meadow flowers next to a fresh cut field. That's what I smell like all day. Yeah, I'm a bit obsessed. Scent lasts all day and matures so nicely." —Dell

    TopMandarin
    HeartJasmine
    BaseSandalwood
    An Eau de Parfum That Smells Like Your Skin, But Better

    Phlur Missing Person Eau de Parfum

    Missing Person Eau de Parfum
    An Eau de Parfum That Smells Like Your Skin, But Better

    Phlur Missing Person Eau de Parfum

    Credit: Amazon
    Pros
    • Viral on TikTok
    Cons

      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 and neroli blossom.

      "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.com. "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."

      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.

      TopSkin musk
      HeartNeroli blossom
      BaseSandalwood Australia oil
      An Organic Fragrance

      The 7 Virtues Santal Vanille Eau de Parfum

      Santal Vanille Eau de Parfum
      An Organic Fragrance

      The 7 Virtues Santal Vanille Eau de Parfum

      Credit: Sephora
      Pros
      • Unisex
      Cons

        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

        TopMyrrh
        HeartVanilla
        BaseSandalwood
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        A Top-Rated Favorite on Amazon

        Pacifica Island Vanilla Perfume

        Island Vanilla Perfume
        A Top-Rated Favorite on Amazon

        Pacifica Island Vanilla Perfume

        Credit: Amazon
        Pros
        • Made in small batches
        Cons

          For a daily perfume that's not overpowering, consider an inexpensive but high quality option from Pacifica. Each of the brand's fragrances—including this Island Vanilla option—is formulated in small batches using natural, corn-based alcohol, and available to shop in up to nine different scent options.

          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. The Moonray has a light vanilla scent. I will be buying these again. The product touches all the bases for me: cruelty-free, vegan, and so on." —Missy

          TopTahitian vanilla
          BaseBourbon vanilla
          A Fresh, Floral Perfume

          by/ rosie jane Madie Perfume

          Madie Perfume
          A Fresh, Floral Perfume

          by/ rosie jane Madie Perfume

          Credit: by / Rosie Jane
          Pros
          • Available in travel-size
          Cons

            While some natural fragrances have a rep for smelling a little too earthy, Madie By Rose Jane reminds us of all the best parts of a beautiful summer day, bottled. The fresh floral notes make its blend light and easy to wear.

            Customer review:

            "I bought this as a gift for my teenage daughter! I love the way it smells and so does she, and I also appreciate that it’s clean fragrance! I can feel good about letting my daughter wear this!" —j6ward

            TopJasmine
            HeartSea spray
            BaseVanilla
            A Travel-Ready Roll-On

            Kai Perfume Oil

            Perfume Oil
            A Travel-Ready Roll-On

            Kai Perfume Oil

            Credit: Anthropologie
            Pros
            • Fits in any purse or carry-on
            Cons

              After just a single sniff, you'll probably ask yourself why it took so long to add this popular perfume oil to your beauty rotation. Stash it in a purse of gym bag and reapply whenever you're in need of a pick-me-up.

              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

              TopCedarwood
              HeartGeranium
              BaseRose
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              A Breezy Vacation-Inspired Scent

              Ellis Brooklyn Salt Eau de Parfum

              Salt Eau de Parfum
              A Breezy Vacation-Inspired Scent

              Ellis Brooklyn Salt Eau de Parfum

              Credit: Bluemercury
              Pros
              • Vegan
              Cons

                If you're a fan of sensual, airy fragrances, you'll love this salty (in the best sense) take on a warm and spicy beach-y scent. And while you'll definitely live in it all summer long, the alluring and subtle scent is ideal year-round.

                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

                TopYlang ylang
                HeartTahitian tiare
                BaseAmbergris
                An Every Day Scent

                Snif Natural Talent Perfume

                Natural Talent Perfume
                An Every Day Scent

                Snif Natural Talent Perfume

                Credit: Snif
                Pros
                • Unisex
                Cons

                  This vegan perfume is often described as "charisma in a bottle," and contains herbaceous notes of apricot, clementine, and iris that leave behind a clean scent that's perfect for everyday wear.

                  Customer review:

                  "This smells like luxurious baby powder to me. It's comforting, fresh, and feels clean and sweet. I did expect a more fruit-forward scent from this but I love the result. In my opinion, this is much more feminine leaning than masculine, but any man interested should still try it, I think everyone would smell amazing in this." —Sydney M.

                  TopApricot
                  HeartJasmine
                  BaseSoft suede
                  An Eco-Friendly Find

                  Bond No. 9 The Scent of Peace Natural

                  The Scent of Peace Natural
                  An Eco-Friendly Find

                  Bond No. 9 The Scent of Peace Natural

                  Pros
                  • Vegan
                  Cons

                    Bond No. 9's Scent of Peace is one of our favorite fragrances of all time, and it's now offered in a gorgeous all-natural version. The perfume itself is crafted with natural and vegan essential oils, plus, the bottle 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

                    TopLemon essential oil
                    HeartBlackcurrant bud absolute
                    BaseMusk
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                    A Clean Fragrance Discovery Set

                    Skylar Sample Palette

                    On Sale
                    Sample Palette
                    A Clean Fragrance Discovery Set

                    Skylar Sample Palette

                    Now 22% Off
                    Credit: Skylar
                    Pros
                    • Great value
                    Cons

                      Each of Skylar's fragrances are non-toxic, clean, and hypoallergenic. Feeling non-committal? This sample kit of five individual scents makes it easy to test out each of the best-sellers, and since it also includes a $90 gift card, you can stock up on your favorite once you've finished the set.

                      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.

                      A Celebrity-Approved Scent

                      Henry Rose Fog Eau de Parfum

                      Fog Eau de Parfum
                      A Celebrity-Approved Scent

                      Henry Rose Fog Eau de Parfum

                      Credit: Nordstrom
                      Pros
                      • Unisex
                      Cons

                        Actress Michelle Pfeiffer's non-toxic fragrance brand Henry Rose is consistently vetted by the Environmental Working Group and the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute. Henry Rose perfumes, like this popular scent, use a blend of synthetic and plant-based oils, and are available in full-size and travel-friendly versions.

                        Customer review:

                        "I typically don't review products—I had to for this one. Upon spritzing this scent from the sample bottle, I was transported to the church of my childhood. It is a mysterious, lingering scent. Like incense and smoke wafting through a cathedral. So nostalgic and pure.I would say if you enjoy woody, smokey, earthy scents—you will adore thisRead more about review stating A religious experience. I immediately purchased the 50 milliliter bottle." —Kelly

                        TopFresh citrus
                        HeartMagnolia
                        BaseVetiver
                        A Spicy Signature Scent

                        Malin+Goetz Cannabis Eau de Parfum

                        Cannabis Eau de Parfum
                        A Spicy Signature Scent

                        Malin+Goetz Cannabis Eau de Parfum

                        Credit: Nordstrom
                        Pros
                        • Paraben- and sulfate-free
                        Cons

                          If you're a fan of earthy fragrances with a little kick, consider this semi-spicy number that combines magnolia, patchouli, black pepper, and more.

                          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

                          TopBergamot
                          HeartMagnolia
                          BasePatchouli
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                          An Essential Oil Perfume

                          Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt Perfume Oil

                          No.04 Bois de Balincourt Perfume Oil
                          An Essential Oil Perfume

                          Maison Louis Marie No.04 Bois de Balincourt Perfume Oil

                          Credit: Credo Beauty
                          Pros
                          • Unisex
                          Cons

                            If you prefer a more subtle—but still impactful—scent experience, reach for this popular roll-on perfume oil from Maison Louis Marie instead of a spray.

                            Customer review:

                            "This perfume oil lasts well, smells heavenly and has easily recyclable packaging. What else could you ask for?" —Alyssa

                            TopSandalwood
                            HeartVetiver
                            BaseAmber Wood
                            A Unisex Staple

                            DedCool Fragrance 03 Blonde: Black Violet/Saffron

                            Fragrance 03 Blonde: Black Violet/Saffron
                            A Unisex Staple

                            DedCool Fragrance 03 Blonde: Black Violet/Saffron

                            Credit: Credo Beauty

                            This black violet, saffron, and rose-scented perfume is a robust fragrance with plenty of depth, and 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.

                            TopJuniper berries
                            HeartAccord cuir
                            BaseBlonde woods
                            An Evergreen Floral Staple

                            Heretic Florgasm Eau de Parfum

                            Florgasm Eau de Parfum
                            An Evergreen Floral Staple

                            Heretic Florgasm Eau de Parfum

                            Credit: Credo Beauty
                            Pros
                            • Sensitive skin-friendly
                            Cons

                              Featuring pink pepper, ylang ylang, grandiflorum jasmine, among other notes, Heretic's Florgasm perfume is ideal for anyone looking for a bright and floral signature scent.

                              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

                              TopPink pepper
                              HeartOrange leaves
                              BaseGrandiflorum jasmine
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                              A Genderless Favorite

                              Boy Smells Hinoki Fantôme

                              Hinoki Fantôme
                              A Genderless Favorite

                              Boy Smells Hinoki Fantôme

                              Credit: Boy Smells
                              Pros
                              • Vegan
                              Cons

                                Here's a beloved and genderless fragrance from Boy Smells that blends notes of tobacco leaves, oakmoss and smoked leather for a distinctively woody scent.

                                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

                                TopTobacco leaves
                                HeartHinoki
                                BaseSmoked leather
                                A Fragrance That Works Overtime

                                The Nue Co. Functional Fragrance

                                Functional Fragrance
                                A Fragrance That Works Overtime

                                The Nue Co. Functional Fragrance

                                Credit: The Nue Co.
                                Pros
                                • Calming
                                Cons

                                  This unique fragrance not only smells of bergamot, cilantro, green cardamon, and more, but also aims to minimize stress and induce a sense of calm for its wearer—talk about bang for your buck.

                                  Customer review:

                                  "This is my signature scent! I get stopped all the time, and especially at work, people will [tell me] multiple times how much they like it. It's interesting how [the fragrance] pairs differently with everyone, and sometimes I even feel like it smells different on me from day-to-day. It has a woodsy, coconut smell that is so restorative and calming. I love it and have purchased the fragrance three times." —Stephanie

                                  TopBergamot
                                  HeartCilantro
                                  BaseGreen Cardamom
                                  A Musky Eau de Parfum

                                  Lake & Skye 11 11 Eau de Parfum

                                  11 11 Eau de Parfum
                                  A Musky Eau de Parfum

                                  Lake & Skye 11 11 Eau de Parfum

                                  Credit: Bluemercury
                                  Pros
                                  • Unisex
                                  Cons

                                    This nose-pleasing clean perfume from Lake & Skye is ideal for those who enjoy the smell of fresh air or freshly-washed linen (so, everyone).

                                    Customer review:

                                    "Such a beautiful scent—perfect for an everyday pick me up. Love it because it is so unique, light and fresh." —Cintia

                                    TopWhite amber
                                    BaseMusk
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                                    What makes a fragrance formula clean?

                                    best clean perfumes in 2022

                                    Quality, plant-based essential oils used as fragrance 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. A number of beauty retailers, like Follain, Credo, and Sephora monitor the levels and quality of essential oils in the beauty products they stock to ensure safety, but it is important for consumers to know the risks when buying direct from independent or conventional essential oil brands.

                                    How can I ensure I'm using a clean, non-toxic perfume?

                                    best clean perfumes in 2022

                                    Take a closer look 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.

                                    Lettermark
                                    Olivia Fleming & Jenna Rosenstein

                                    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.
                                     

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