Scent is inherently linked to our memories. With one whiff of a pleasant or distasteful aroma, scents transport us to another place in time. Given that, it makes sense that some of the industry's top trends draw on nostalgic scents that transcend generations—like marshmallows. An adaptable and versatile aroma, the treat from your childhood is making its mark in the beauty industry. Given the market’s love of gourmand and decadent fragrances, it’s hardly surprising. But what might astonish you is how much you’ll actually love marshmallow perfumes.
The soft, chewy confection has a range that lends itself well to different fragrances depending on the accompanying aromas. "It’s light and airy without being overpowering," says Kara Kowalski, head of product development for Snif. "At times it’s the hero ingredient, but really shines when it’s paired with other notes that elevate its softness." For example, when paired with earthy scents, spice and vanilla, marshmallow takes on a woody accord akin to a roaring campfire. On the opposite end of the spectrum, whipped cream, berries and creamy caramel give it a luxe and luxurious feel that’s surprisingly irresistible.
Brands are taking note and giving marshmallows center stage and completely changing the category of gourmand fragrances. Below, we’ve gathered the best expressions of marshmallow perfumes to experiment with.
Marshmallow fragrances we're sweet on
2 / 11
Yves Saint Laurent's iconic Black Opium gets a delicious twist with a pink marshmallow accord. It's decadent and sweet but still has the sultry elements of the original for a fragrance that's rich in gourmand flavors and luxe aromas.
BUY ON SEPHORA - $165
BUY ON ULTA - $165
4 / 11
With a luscious base composed of marshmallow and Chantilly cream, this perfume is the epitome of airy sweetness. But it has a juicy bouquet of fruit aromas, such as blackcurrant and orange blossom flowers, that add a fresh component. The result is a scent that's as pretty and vibrant as its bottle.
BUY NOW - $390
6 / 11
Inspired by campfires and the aroma of gooey s'mores, Commodity's Milk is like a warm blanket on a chilly fall morning. It's creamy, rich and calming—despite its gourmand accord of marshmallow, mahogany and tonka bean—and makes a perfect base scent with just the right amount of sweetness.
BUY NOW - $150
7 / 11
This romantic scent gently guides you through delicate saffron and Turkish rose to bursts of ripe raspberry and rich Tuscan leather, before grounding in decadent whipped marshmallow and alluring ebony woods.
BUY ON NOYZ - $85
BUY ON SEPHORA - $85
8 / 11
Part of the skin-scent Milk range, Mochi Milk is a candied, sweet take on notes that mold to you, with sweetened rice milk, marshmallow and vanilla anchoring the warm skin notes of sandalwood, jasmine and white musk.
BUY ON DED COOL - $90
BUY ON SEPHORA - $90
9 / 11
Crisp pear and bright bergamot introduce this scent, wrapping around a heart of delicate florals, like heliotrope and violet, before grounding in the fluff of marshmallow and white amber.
BUY ON ELLIS BROOKLYN - $115
BUY ON ULTA - $115
10 / 11
The mysterious allure of night-blooming jasmine meets the effervescent brightness of pink marshmallow, drying down to a sultry amber.
BUY NOW - $30
11 / 11
Sweet raspberry and brightening neroli uplift opening notes of mandarin in this romantic scent, opening to a heart of marshmallow and jasmine that grounds into a warm vanilla.
BUY ON AMAZON - $161
BUY ON MACY'S - $161
