If you’re new to the world of woody fragrances, you’ve come to the right place. Chances are your fragrance shelf is stocked with fresh floral and vanilla perfumes. And for those on the hunt for a more sophisticated scent to add to your collection, sandalwood is the perfect place to start.
Sandalwood is just one of those fragrance ingredients that just works. It’s long-lasting, unisex and mixed beautifully with almost any other scent group. Sandalwood is featured in many of our favourite spicy autumn fragrances – but that doesn’t mean it can’t be worn year-round. In fact, there are many reasons to add a sandalwood scent to your fragrance wardrobe, from its intoxicating aroma to its wellness benefits.
Whilst some sandalwood fragrances have become daily staples (we’re looking at you, Le Labo), there are plenty on the market for every scent preference, budget and occasion. So we’ve rounded up our favourite scents to help inspire your first foray into the wonderful world of sandalwood perfumes…
The best sandalwood perfumes…
Le Labo Santal 33
Le Labo Santal 33 is a much loved scent among the celebrities, with Jodie Comer and Alexa Chung citing it as their signature scent. And after just one whiff, it’s easy to see why. The unisex scent blends notes of iris, Australian Sandalwood, musk and spices to create an intoxicating and long-lasting aroma. The comforting feelings of an open fire and drifting smoke are what give this fragrance its addictive, signature scent.
$345 at Le Labo Fragrances
Vanessa Megan Wild Woud
Vanessa Megan fragrances are created to be top-tier, and Wild Would is no exception. Derived from premium natural botanicals, the fragrance experience begins with intoxicating spice, which develops as it evolves with your body chemistry, deepening to a rich, earthy scent. The best part? This perfume is plant- based and free from synthetics, delivering a long-lasting scent with minimal impact on the earth.
$89.95 at Adore Beauty
Aesop Marrakech Intense EDP
Let Aesop transport you to vibrant Marrakech with this woody, spicy, unique, unisex scent. You’ll be wrapped up in the warmth and depth of the spices, with a surprising fresh floral twist along the way. With hints of cardamom, cloves, rose and sandalwood, this earthy fragrance makes the perfect addition to your winter fragrance collection.
$170 at Adore Beauty
Byredo Mojave Ghost
Your new signature scent is calling! Byredo Mojave Ghost is beautifully delicate, exotic and alluring, blending notes of ambrette, magnolia, sandalwood and cedarwood. Blooming from the warmth of woody undertones, this scent is centred around a floral bouquet with a graceful earthen spicy twist that makes for a unique and indulgent signature scent.
$266 at MECCA
DedCool Fragrance 02
If you’re on the fence about woody scents, this fragrance is the perfect introduction to sandalwood perfumes. Fusing notes of sandalwood, juniper and a hint of patchouli (gin and tonic, anyone?!), DedCool’s Fragrance 02 is a guaranteed head-turner.
$144 at MECCA
Main image credit: @thecierrataylor
What’s your favourite sandalwood perfume?
I don’t think I actually tried any, the above sound so nice.
I’m not into perfumes but if I had to choose it would be the Aesop – except for the price (eek)
Yes I love Aesop but find the price eek like you say
Sandalwood yes! Love it so much
I like sandalwood.
Who is Elijah have some great sandalwood-based scents!
I LOVE sandalwood! Le Labo Santal 33 has long been on my wishlist. I also like the original YSL Opium. I often burn sandalwood incense, too.
I can’t say I have ever used Sandalwood in my perfumes but I do have diffusers of Sandalwood in my entry hall and some in my wardrobe.
Have always loved Sandalwood as I am not a lover of anything too sweet and Sandalwood fits the bill!
Wow, those are pretty exxy
I really like sandalwood.
I love Sandalwood scents and would love to try all of the above.
I like sandalwood, but none of these listed. It has to be thick and have sweeter deep base. With vanilla as well
Not a fan of sandalwood.
I’d love to try a sample of the Aesop Marrakech Intense EDP. A sample would be all I can afford. 🙂
I’m not a fan of sandalwood
Sandalwood is a scent I really like, the oil is also very beneficial. I haven’t tried those perfumes but will certainly keep them in mind!
I love woody scents and an inclusion of sandlewood is divine.
I ‘wood’ favourite this article if I could!