A fragrance pyramid is a simple way to describe how perfume changes after application. It is not a rigid division into three separate stages, but it helps explain which ingredients appear first, which shape the composition and which remain on the skin the longest.
Top notes appear first and are usually light and volatile. They often include citrus, herbs, aldehydes or fresh spices. These notes create the opening impression, but they should not be the only basis for a purchase because they begin to give way to the next accords after several minutes.
Heart notes form the center of the fragrance. They can include flowers, fruits, spices and green aromas that connect the opening with the base. Base notes such as woods, amber, vanilla, musk and resins add depth and influence longevity.
When reading a perfume description, treat the note list as a map rather than a guarantee of one exact smell. The same ingredient can feel different depending on its surroundings and proportions. Testing on skin and observing the entire composition for several hours remains essential.