Rice

Woody notes, meanwhile, are rather emblematic of men's fragrances. Yet beyond these scents, perfumery is full of a whole host of other ingredients whose presence one would not spontaneously suspect... Did you know that a good number of fragrances contain rice?

Rice, an ingredient very present in world culture

First and foremost, let us start by highlighting the importance of rice for a great many women and men throughout the world. It is the main food source for more than 50 % of the world's population. Rice is grown in every corner of the world, and is used to prepare numerous dishes as well as beverages. Today, rice consists of two cultivated species and 22 wild species. These multiple varieties allow it to be produced in different ways, depending on the country in which it is found. Cultivation submerged in water nevertheless remains the most commonly used method. To date, 90 % of the world's rice harvest is consumed in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. As a result, a fragrance that contains a rice scent possesses an undeniable share of universality. Rice can have a short, medium or long grain. It can be white, creamy, brown, red or black. There is a type for every taste and every color. Incidentally, there are also scented rice varieties, notably jasmine rice grown in Thailand. It stands out for its silky grain and delicate scent. Finally, rice is one of the oldest beauty secrets, used by many Asian women since the 16th century. It helps soothe acne and skin redness. It also regulates excess sebum.

Rice in perfumery

The aroma of rice in perfumery is always obtained through synthetic resources. In other words, its scent cannot be extracted directly. It therefore required considerable technical advances, and is entirely reproduced in the laboratory by perfumers. Now, when it comes to the perfumery category, this is a very broad designation that can yield a whole host of different results. A perfumer may want to achieve a classic rice scent, as in Kenzo Amour, Loverdose Tattoo by Diesel, or Black Opium Nuit Blanche by Yves Saint Laurent. They may also create a basmati rice scent, as is the case, for example, in the fragrance Hugo XX by Hugo Boss. Finally, they may be seeking a more vintage rice powder scent, as in Love by Chloé or Pure White Cologne by Creed. The synthetic blends will then not be the same.