What Is a Solar Scent? The Key to Smelling Like Endless Summer Vacation, Unlocked By Experts
Beachy scent bottled.
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Summer energy is simply unmatched: The days are longer, people are happier, and everything is just lighter and brighter. Every year, I wish I could bottle the feeling of summer—and now I can with the latest fragrance trend: solar scents.
I swear I didn't just make up the term "solar scents." The fragrance industry is continuously innovating and expanding far beyond the four classic scent families (which are floral, amber, woody, and fresh, FYI). And each modern subcategory is designed to evoke distinct emotions. In the case of solar perfumes, these uplifting aromas aim to capture the essence of sunshine and transport you to your happy place, whether you're in a heat wave or stuck in the dead of winter.
My idea of what sun rays smell like—dazzling, happy warmth, of course—is probs vastly different from what others think. So what does a solar scent actually smell like? Below, fragrance experts provide a full rundown on the sparkling perfume category and explain how it came to be. Plus, you'll find some lustrous picks to add to your collection STAT.
First, what are solar scents?
Unlike most fragrance categories, solar perfumes aren't defined by their notes, but rather how they alter your frame of mind. "It's about capturing a sunlit feeling—radiant, warm, and luminous—often reminiscent of skin kissed by sunshine, vacation days, or golden afternoons," says Givaudan perfumer Christina Christie. "They allow us to connect with positive emotions and escape to sunny climates," adds Caroline Ornst, senior director of fragrance development at dsm-firmenich. Consider solar scents spritzable SSRIs that boost your mood and instantly take you to a happier place.
What do solar scents smell like?
There's no straightforward answer to this question. For example, think of floral perfumes. They contain a mix of flowery notes. Duh. Solar scents aren't so simple. There aren't any specific notes that solar perfumes must contain to be classified as "solar." "Solar scents are more of an olfactive impression than a strict list of ingredients," Christie explains. "However, perfumers often use a specific palette of notes to evoke that sun-drenched feeling."
Perfumers pretty much go off vibes when concocting solar fragrances. "The first step is imagining the scent of your best summer holiday and capturing the intangible essence of sunlight and warmth," says Walter Johnsen, VP of product development at InterParfums. This makes the whole process of developing a solar perfume more conceptual and artistic than your average scent.
What are common solar scent notes?
While there isn't a set equation for solar scents, Johnsen says that perfumers tend to gravitate towards six categories to achieve a sunny, uplifting expression. According to Johnsen,
- Citrus: Fruits like bergamot, mandarin, lemon, and grapefruit provide a "sparkling, brightness that's vital for that initial burst of light."
- White florals: Orange blossom, neroli, and jasmine add a "creamy, airy, luminous effect that captures the sensation of turning your face to the sun."
- Tropical florals: Frangipani, tiare, and ylang-ylang create a "sun-warmed, exotic element that transports you to some faraway paradise."
- Milky notes: Spiking a perfume with coconut, almond, and café latte softens the overall aroma while also boosting the comfort factor.
- Earthy, warm base notes: "Amber, musk, and woods always add warmth and depth, mimicking the sensation of sun on skin."
These are just the starting point. You may also find an array of peculiar notes, like suntan lotion, salt, water, and other tropical fruits, like banana and pineapple mixed into your favorite solar scent.
The best solar scents
The overall sunny aura of solar scents makes them perfect for summer, but don't limit yourself by only spritzing them June through August. "Some of the best times to wear [a solar perfume] are when you're feeling low on energy or during grey day," says Johnsen. "A nice spray of a solar scent can immediately bring a smile to my face. They are happy scents to me, and I like to be happy as much as I can." With that in mind, I hand picked 10 bliss-in-a-bottle solar perfumes for you try for yourself.
Pros
- Truly a one-of-a-kind scent
- So beautifully layered, each spritz is an experience for your nose
- Lasts all day
Cons
- Not available at major retailers
Every summer emotion is so beautifully bottled in Purple Noon: Imagine sea-soaked salty hair, the most satisfying Italian ice, and the feeling after a sun-drenched nap... all of that is captured in this electrifying fragrance. Ginger, sweet orange, and bergamot give the scent an energizing opening that's equal parts tart and syrupy. It turns airily sweet as citrus-forward florals—particularly, orange flower and geranium—appear before transforming into a musky, tropical paradise with ylang-ylang, tuberose, and the most feathery soft vanilla.
- Key Notes: Fresh ginger, coconut water, Moroccan orange flower, ylang-ylang
- Sizes: 1.7 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "Yeah, so I'll be able to skip the post-summer depression this year thanks to Purple Noon. I'm not one to wear the same fragrance multiple days in a row (why would I when I have around 300 to choose from?), but I was hooked from the first spritz. This is my summer signature, and every time I spray it, people flock to me to ask what perfume I'm wearing."—MARY HONKUS, CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY EDITOR
Pros
- The banana note in this is so realistic and captivating
- Starts creamy and sweet and transforms into a warm, sexy scent
- Comes in a full size and the most adorable mini you've ever seen
Cons
- This could be categorized as a gourmand, so if you don't like sweet scents this probably isn't for you
You could drop major $$$ for a Hawaiian vacation, or you could just spritz Maui in a Bottle to aromatically visit the islands anytime and anywhere. Kayali gets five stars for nailing the banana note in this perfume (one of the biggest summer fragrance trends). Most of the time, banana facets end up smelling grossly synthetic—like Laffy Taffy—but the resulting aroma in this scent is the most realistic fresh banana I've ever come across.
Banana intertwines with coconut for a sweet and creamy start. As it wears, this turns surprisingly sensual as rich jasmine, spicy rum, and vanilla bourbon come through on the dry down. Let's just say sex on the beach may be in your future if wear this on vacation. 😉
- Key Notes: Sweet banana, coconut cream, jasmine
- Sizes: 0.33 and 1.7 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "In the summer, I want to smell like I've been basking in the tropical sun all day, drenched in sunscreen, eating my weight in fresh fruit. And when I spritz this on, I at least smell the part. It really is summer in a bottle and smells just like a vacation, but it doesn't smell too artificial or juvenile either."—BETH GILLETTE, BEAUTY EDITOR
Pros
- If you want to pretend you summer in the Hamptons, this scent will help
- The bottle is one of the prettiest we've ever seen
- Truly a happy scent
Cons
- Often sells out, so be sure to pick up a bottle while you can
Solaris is the most sophisticated scent on our list. Rather than channeling the energy of Australian surf beaches, it feels more aligned with the ultra-exclusive coastlines in the French Riviera. This starts vibrant and juicy with a bright burst of blackcurrants and freshly squeezed lemons. Then tiare flower, ylang-ylang, and jasmine—the trifecta of extravagant tropical flowers—elegantly peek through to enhance the overall grandeur. The dry down wraps you in luxury thanks to hints of vanilla and creamy sandalwood. A single spritz will surely get you one step closer to manifesting your dream vacation.
- Key Notes: Neroli, lemon oil, tiare flower, sandalwood
- Sizes: 3.4 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "TikTok put me on to Solaris, and it may be my favorite find from the app. This is my summertime 'girl boss' scent. It discreetly captures peoples' attention while still making a statement, and I truly feel like I emit sun rays when I wear it. Plus, the apothecary-inspired bottle is GORGEOUS. I have it displayed in my living room." —MH
Pros
- This scent is incredibly unique and uplifting
- Doesn't feel too heavy on hot days
Cons
- I wish the scent lasted longer
Lemon gets its (much deserved) shining moment in this sunny potion. Nette seamlessly blends the solar and gourmand fragrance categories for a universal scent that will satisfy even the pickiest noses. Zesty lemon and bergamot make a brilliant—and slightly tart—opening before the wispy confectionary facets of bitter almond, meringue, and vanilla bean flood your senses. If the idea of smelling like a fresh lemon bar appeals to you, you'll absolutely adore this.
- Key Notes: Lemon, jasmine, vanilla
- Sizes: 0.33 and 1.7 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "I never thought I'd want to smell like my favorite summer dessert, but now I need to. My go-to gourmand scents are wayyyy too overpowering for the summer heat, yet this maintains a breeziness while still feeling indulgent. When I mist this, I am the sweet treat."—MH
Pros
- The fine mist is *chef's kiss*
- Literally smells like the perfect beach day
Cons
- The bottle is a bit kitschy, tbh
Much like sun rays, solar perfumes tend to project—and that's not always everyone's cup of tea. If you prefer an close-to-skin scent that still feels radiant, LoveShackFancy has you covered. This pretty much bottles the joy-inducing aroma of your favorite beach. Coconut paired with a bouquet of beachy florals dance across your skin like a gentle sea breeze, while sea salt and driftwood add a natural, calming muskiness.
- Key Notes: Frangipani, coconut, salt water
- Sizes: 0.34 and 2.5 oz
One Cosmo expert says: "This is a solar and tropical—sun-drenched beach vibe—vacation in a bottle."—CAROLINE ORNST, SENIOR DIRECTOR OF FRAGRANCE DEVELOPMENT AT DSM-FIRMENICH
Pros
- Light and refreshing—even for those with ultra-sensitive noses
- Super portable for a body mist (It's TSA-friendly!)
- The mister itself is soooo satisfying
Cons
- Scent fades pretty quickly (womp)
For a quick refresher—and an immediate mood boost—pack this sunny body mist in your beach or gym bag. The delicate aroma feels like morning rays peeking over the horizon with a delightful mix of lush pineapple, tart raspberries, and a touch of creamy coconut. The dry down turns warm and cozy thanks to a comforting haze of musk and sandalwood.
- Key Notes: Pineapple, jasmine, musk
- Sizes: 3.4 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "I'm a sucker for anything with angel numbers—444 specifically means you're on the right path, so spritzing this acts as a little reminder that everything is a-okay. Of course, it also helps that the mist smells so heavenly and transports me to a happier place." —MH
Pros
- Tonka notes make it smell really sexy, IMO
- I love the sleek bottle
Cons
- Doesn't have a super strong projection
Whoever says coconut can't be sexy or suave obviously hasn't caught a whiff of Hamaca. Misting this feels like discovering treasure that has just washed ashore—you don't realize you've struck gold until you explore a bit more. Bitey, salty seawater morphs into a luscious, enveloping cocktail of fresh coconut and rich sandalwood. The longer it wears, the more evocative it becomes, probably because vanilla and tonka add a carnal depth that works like magic to draw others closer to you.
- Key Notes: Marine accords, tonka, coconut
- Sizes: 0.91 and 2.9 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "TBH, I wasn't a fan at first, but trust me when I say you'll want to stick around and let this develop on skin. I become a total siren when I wear this. It attracts men like moths to a flame, which I fully attribute to the combination of salty seawater, soft coconut, and rich tonka."—MH
Pros
- Simple and elegant
- 2024 Holy Grail Award Winner
Cons
- This can feel a bit oily, so avoid spritzing on your clothes
Cue up 'Walking on Sunshine' cause as soon as you get a whiff of Sunlit Blooms, nothing will be able to ruin your mood or tear you down. Picture running through a field of the prettiest wildflowers as the sun kisses your skin—that's exactly what this smells like. Orange blossoms give this a citrusy tinge, while white florals help you maintain a state of bliss. A touch of salted vanilla adds some warmth that keeps the vibes high long into the night.
- Key Notes: Orange blossom, white florals, salty vanilla
- Sizes: 0.5 and 1.7 oz
One Cosmo editor says: “This fragrance is the perfect blend of warm and floral notes. I loved that the floral scent wasn’t too overpowering apropos of its coupling with warm layers of vanilla and citrus. If someone bottled up a bright sunrise and made it into a perfume, the result would be a few spritzes of this long-lasting scent.”—JASMINE HYMAN, ASSISTANT BEAUTY EDITOR
Pros
- Smells like endless sunshine, uncontrollable laughter, and sunscreen
- Bottle fits right in with the clean girl aesthetic
Cons
- You might need to reapply throughout the day—just like sunscreen—to fully enjoy
If your perfect summer day includes poolside pina coladas with your BFFs, you're going to want to add a mist of Missy into the mix to make it the best day...ever. The cheerful combination of ocean mist, pineapple, and orange blossoms dissolves all your worries away in an instant. Instead of leaning sickly sweet or too tropical, a jolt of toasted coconut, whipped musk, and creamy sandalwood calls luxurious sunscreen to mind. You won't be able to stop smiling when you smell this, trust.
- Key Notes: Green mandarin, coconut, pineapple
- Sizes: 0.33 and 1.7 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "The first time I smelled this, it immediately took me back to tanning on my best friends' trampoline in June of 2008. We probably played Radio Disney and talked about which Jonas Brother we had a crush on. It's a super nostalgic scent that obviously feels summery and beachy, but also warm and cozy."—BG
Pros
- An OG solar scent
- Combines all of the tried and true solar notes
Cons
- Some shoppers wished it lasted longer
Our experts argue that Bronze Goddess started the solar scent craze years ago, and it's gained a cult-like following since then. "This is the ultimate beach scent with creamy coconut, tiare flower, amber, and a warm, salty sea breeze," says Christie. The velevty aroma sits on skin like melted honey, encompassing you in a long-lasting luminous veil.
- Key Notes: Tiare flower, coconut, amber
- Sizes: 1.7 and 3.4 oz
One Cosmo editor says: "This is totally addictive, which is why it has earned a cult following."—CO
Meet the experts:
- Christina Christie is a perfumer at Givadaun who has developed scents for brands like Quartana.
- Caroline Ornst is the Senior Director of Fragrance Development at dsm-firmenich, where she creates perfumes for designer brands.
- Walter Johnsen is the VP of Product Development at InterParfums, where he develops scents for Oscar de la Renta, MCM, Guess, Donna Karan, Ferragamo, and more.
Why trust ‘Cosmopolitan’?
Mary Honkus is a contributing beauty editor at Cosmopolitan with over seven years of experience researching, writing, and editing fragrance stories, including the explaining how to find best wedding scent for your special day and explaining the strawberry perfume trend. She’s an authority in all beauty categories but an expert when it comes to fragrance. Her scent wardrobe is ever-expanding and she regularly rotates through a collection of over 200 perfumes (including all of the options in this article).
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