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In perfumery the Sandalwood fragrance note refers to the scent of oil from the group of Santalum trees which are known for keeping their fragrance for many years. The scent of Scandalwood is a creamy woody scent which has been used in perfumery for centuries. Due to the high price of Sandalwood some perfumes use a synthetic Sandalwood substitute or a scent made from pulp by-products. This article outlines the best Sandalwood perfumes for men and women.

Acqua Di Parma Sandalo


Within the Aqua Di Parma Signatures of the Sun range their Sandalo Eau de Parfum is a great unisex Sandalwood fragrance. Warm Amber and Tonka Bean supports the Sandalwood which is also accompanied by a calming Lavender. Aqua Di Parma are known for their citrus fragrances and so Sandalo opens with fresh Lemon and Orange top note.

Zadig & Voltaire This Is Us!


Zadig & Voltaire This Is Us! is a creamy Vanilla Sandalwood which can be worn by men or women. If you find Vanilla fragrances too sweet then This Is Us! could be a good option because the Sandalwood adds a coolness to the Vanilla which takes the sweet edge off. It’s quite a cosy fragrance so I recommend Zadig & Voltaire This Is Us! for Autumn and Winter.

My article on all the Zadig & Voltaire fragrances.

Estée Lauder Sensuous


Sensuous from Estée Lauder is one of the most woody fragrances aimed at women. The deep Sandalwood note is definitely dominant and made feminine with a hint of Honey. Pepper, Amber and white floral notes create warmth and spice which merge with the Sandalwood to create a unique feminine woody perfume.

Creed Original Santal


Creed Original Santal is an aromatic Sandalwood fragrance which uses Lavender, Juniper Berries and Coriander to add a calming and herbal element to its woody main note. A Vanilla and Tonka Bean base help bring out a creaminess in the Sandalwood which again makes the scent feel warm and calming.

Le Labo Santal 33


Santal 33 is probably the most famous of the Le Labo fragrances. It’s a homage to Sandalwood, with Leather undertones. In addition Hints of Papyrus, Cedar and Cardamon provide a green feeling into the mix.

Le Labo Santal 33 is known for its lasting power which helps justify the high price tag.

Tom Ford Santal Blush


Tom Ford Santal Blush is a Sandalwood fragrance with Oud and Benzoin undertones which really bring out the ‘woody’ notes in Sandalwood. Spices and Cinnamon are also present which add to the masculinity and warmth of the fragrance. I think Santal Blush is quite a unisex fragrance and could easily be shared between a couple.

Soki London

Sophie is the perfume enthusiast behind Soki London. She reviews the latest perfumes and entire perfume ranges on her YouTube channel and website.