Perfume is composed of layers called notes, which unfold over time to create its full character. Top notes are the first scents you smell after application—light, fresh, and fleeting, often including citrus, herbs, or light fruits. Middle notes, also called heart notes, emerge once the top notes fade, forming the core of the fragrance with florals, spices, or soft fruits, and usually last a few hours. Base notes appear last, providing depth, richness, and longevity; these include woods, musk, amber, and vanilla, anchoring the scent and lingering long after the others have faded. Understanding these layers helps you choose perfumes that evolve beautifully on your skin and ensures you enjoy the full fragrance experience from first spritz to final trace.