Rice Fragrances Are the Ultra-Creamy Skin Scent You’ll Never Want to Run Out Of

Under-utilized in perfume and therefore an ultra-rare scent, rice is the latest creamy note to trend in the world of fragrance. Rice fragrances are delicate, long-lasting skin scents, full of warmth, comfort and lightness. Since Diptyque launched L’Eau Papier ($180) in 2023, which features a rice steam accord, the note has quickly gained fame. The world of perfume, especially on PerfumeTok, is now fully obsessed with the rice fragrance’s versatility and freshness. All signs point to a new skin scent standard, and we couldn’t be more ready!

What does rice smell like in perfume?

Like all things perfume, it depends on what exactly you’re using as an ingredient.

Jasmine rice has light floral elements that establish a delicate and aromatic scent. On the other hand, Diptyque’s steamed rice note is creamy with a nutty quality that creates a warmer overall appeal. Basmati rice, used in BORNTOSTANDOUT’s Dirty Rice ($210), develops that nutty note even more, creating a richer and earthier impression.

That said, rice notes overall tend to evoke clean, warm and comforting feelings.

These fragrances wear close to the body, creating an intimate second skin that blends with your natural skin’s scent. Other skin scents, like cashmere, certain musks and ISO E super (a synthetic note that’s velvety and slightly woody), are similar to rice in its sheer quality. These notes are all associated with comfort, depth and warmth.

The Rice Fragrances We’re Obsessed With

1 / 5

Diptyque L’Eau Papier Eau de Toilette ($180)

This deeply addictive skin scent evokes the transparent steam tumbling from your rice cooker, fresh white rice and clean sheets of paper, grounded in the backdrop of blonde woods.

• BUY NOW – $180

KEY NOTES

White Musks, Steamed Rice Accord and Blonde Woods Accord

 

2 / 5

d’Annam White Rice Eau de Parfum ($120)

Exploring the rich relationship between white rice and Vietnamese culture, this scent explores the sweet and nutty notes that are iconic parts of the family meal. Jasmine and tonka bean round out this scent by reinforcing the floral and earthy qualities of rice.

 

• BUY NOW – $120

KEY NOTES

Rice, Orris, Jasmine, White Musk and Tonka Bean

3 / 5

BORNTOSTANDOUT Dirty Rice Eau de Parfum ($210)

Combining warm Basmati rice with creamy sandalwood and bright bergamot, this scent is a deeply sensual second skin. It indulges in the heady sweetness of a gourmand while staying true to a skin scent.

• BUY NOW – $210

KEY NOTES

Bergamot, Basmati Rice, Peony, Milk, Sandalwood and Vetiver

4 / 5

KILIAN Paris Moonlight in Heaven ($295)

Inspired by sticky mango rice, this delectable scent begins with the tropical rush of grapefruit and mango, settling down into the familiar comfort of coconut milk and rice, mingled with delicate tonka bean.

• BUY NOW – $295

KEY NOTES

Grapefruit, Mango, Rice, Coconut Milk and Roasted Tonka Beans

5 / 5

Kenzo Amour Eau de Parfum ($113)

Inspired by Bali, Indonesia, this sensual fragrance uses rice steam accord to open into a warm blend of woods, musks and delicate florals for a truly romantic perfume.

 

• BUY NOW – $113

KEY NOTES

Rice Steam, White Tea, White Musks, Cherry Blossom and Vanilla