I Can't Prove It, But I'm 99.9% Sure That This Smoky Fragrance Makes Your Outfits Look Better

These incense perfumes exude elegance with every spritz.

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Frankincense, oud, cypriol and patchouli all have one thing in common (apart from the fact that they happen to be the fragrances we simply can't get enough of): They all belong to the incense family. Incense perfumes possess an air of mystery that's often imitated, never duplicated, and they're praised for their smoky, resinous, and earthy profiles. While they're on shelves everywhere from apothecaries and markets to malls and shoebox city apartments, there will always be more incense-infused perfumes to spark some renewed interest.

They're also widely described as one of the more sensual notes, and in our opinion, can give any outfit a romantic touch. So why limit yourself to just one or two? Below, take a deep dive into the history of these fragrances, which types of scents count as incense scents, and how to amplify their notes by layering them with your favourite floral perfumes and spicy scents. Then, discover the best 14 incense-based perfumes from trendy and timeless brands like Jo Malone London, Fugazzi, D.S. & Durga, Parfums de Marly, and Santa Maria Novella.

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What Are Incense Fragrances?

You may have a general idea of what incense smells like when it's burned in its purest form (i.e., incense sticks), but sometimes, it can be challenging to identify in fragrances when the note is masked by luminous ambers, soft florals and dry woods. Incense has been present in fragrance compositions for centuries, with its deep roots spanning continents, religions and cultures. In perfumery, it refers to a blend that emulates the scent of burning incense. Typically blended with spice, herbal, and floral notes to add depth and complexity, incense can be crafted with natural and synthetic materials.

Common ingredients used to create incense blends are frankincense, oud, myrrh, and patchouli, as well as oils derived from woods (such as cedar and sandalwood) and from synthetic aroma chemicals. When derived from natural materials, it can come in the form of oil distilled from resin, woods and spices. Frequently used as a base note, incense adds a warm, rich and mysterious touch to any olfactory blend. The specific fragrance profile of incense in perfumes is dependent on the type of incense oil used. For instance, patchouli has a rich, woody aroma, whereas frankincense tends to be sweet and slightly spicy.

Oud is present in a number of our favourite incense perfumes, as it's undeniably opulent. Notoriously a rare and expensive ingredient, it's been dubbed as "liquid gold." According to DSM-Firmenich perfumers Alexandra Monet and Frank Voelkl, oud is derived from the Aquilaria (agar) tree, primarily found in Southeast Asia, and harvested by stripping and distilling the tree’s bark. “It's famous for its strong, sensual, woody smell. Think rich, bold, and unforgettable,” Monet and Voelkl say. “If you love a perfume that's noticeable and complex, you might fall in love with oud.”

Are Incense Fragrances Ideal for Layering?

Not only are incense scents ideal for layering, but they can completely transform any perfume you use as a base if your goal is to add a resinous, warm or slightly smoky finish to an olfactory blend. There is no one "right" way to layer your chosen fragrances, but certain scent combinations will help amplify or subdue the notes in these unique blends. When selecting an incense perfume to layer with, it's helpful to take note of its wear time and sillage. Generally, the best notes to combine with incense-based fragrances are perennials, spices, citrus and wood.

The Best Incense Fragrances, Listed

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How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To identify the 17 best incense fragrances on the market, I leaned on my knowledge and firsthand testing. As part of my research, I considered several factors, including unique note compositions, longevity, sillage, and designs. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.

Why Trust Who What Wear?

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

Maya Thomas
Maya Thomas
Associate Beauty Editor

Maya Thomas is an Associate Beauty Editor at Who What Wear. Her strong love for all things beauty and fashion stems from a strong childhood interest in the fine arts. During a gap year spent in Paris studying the history of French fashion, she shifted her focus to English literature and journalism as a student at Loyola Marymount University. After graduating in May 2021, Maya began freelancing for Parade.com as a contributing commerce writer. When she's not writing, Maya spends her free time catching up on reading, perusing art galleries, and enjoying a night out at the ballet every now and then.

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