Radical Transparency: Best Clean Fragrances of 2025

The word "fragrance" has long been a loophole in beauty labeling, allowing companies to hide hundreds of undisclosed ingredients behind this single term. In conventional perfumery, formulas are closely guarded secrets, making it impossible for consumers to know exactly what they're spraying on their skin. This lack of transparency becomes particularly concerning when you consider that fragrances are absorbed through both your skin and respiratory system.

That's why the Clean Beauty Awards took an unprecedented stance: to be considered for evaluation, perfume brands had to do something radical – disclose their complete ingredient lists. This requirement makes our top-rated fragrances truly revolutionary in the beauty industry. They represent not just exceptional scents, but a new standard of transparency in perfumery.

Through rigorous three-month testing by clean beauty advocates and specialists, the top performing clean perfumes have been determined.

Evaluation Criteria

Scent Development

• Initial impression
• Evolution on skin
• Complexity
• Balance
• Uniqueness

Performance

• Wear time
• Sillage (scent trail)
• Skin interaction

The Top Clean Fragrances
 

#1: ROAN Fragrances - Porcelain Pulse - $160

Porcelain Pulse by ROAN Fragrances is a captivating, poetic scent inspired by the warmth and charm of English tea parlors. This fragrance evokes the essence of cozy cottage core moments with its blend of fruity, earthy notes. It opens with the sweet freshness of carrot, rhubarb, and pear, which intertwines with an alluring mix of white florals, cozy tobacco, and Darjeeling black tea. A beautiful and unique fragrance that reminds you to indulge in the present moment, capturing the intimacy and connection of conversations. The perfect scent for those who appreciate complex, yet comforting aromas.

Expert Notes:

"Porcelain Pulse is lovely and bright with floral, fruity notes. I pick up notes of earthy tea, cardamon first and then it settles into the florals and fruit before it fades to a faint sweetness on the skin by the end of the day. I do wish that it has better staying power but I’d much rather have a subtle perfume that one that is too strong.

I also love how clean and modern the design and packaging is. The weight of the glass bottle and the heavy magnetic cap adds a touch of luxury. Overall, I am enjoying this perfume and love the concept behind ROAN. As a lover of tea myself, it makes me curious about all the other tea fragrnaces in the collection." - Sherry Chen, @mochiandblush

"If you’re looking for a fragrance that’s effortlessly beautiful, Porcelain Pulse by ROAN Fragrances is it! From the breathtaking bottle to the perfectly balanced scent, everything about this perfume feels luxurious. It’s light enough for everyday wear yet sophisticated enough to make a statement.

As someone with scent sensitivities, I’m super picky about perfumes, but this one is a dream—no irritation, no overwhelming notes, just a soft, wearable fragrance that I never get tired of. This is 100% a must-have in any collection!" - Loniesha Patterson, @pursuitofl
 

#2: Rosy&Earnest - Vanilla Rum Royal - $125

Vanilla Rum Royal by Rosy&Earnest is a tantalizingly addictive fragrance that combines the warmth of rum with the smooth richness of vanilla absolute, creating an intoxicating allure. Enhanced by the depth of oak wood absolute, this scent envelops you in a luxurious, velvety embrace. It's a fragrance that captures the essence of indulgence, leaving a lasting, spellbinding impression that will make you crave more. Perfect for those who seek an intense and captivating aroma with a touch of sophistication.

Expert Notes:

"The packaging is lovely and modern. For some reason, both perfumes came with their seal cut and opened. Thankfully, both perfumes also came with travel sizes that were sealed and new. So I used those instead and simply used the full sizes for the photoshoot.

What I admire about this perfume is that it holds itself up as good as a regular perfume. The sillage is strong and lasts a long time. It's a personal preference but the scent is a little strong for me. However, I can see how someone who loves vanilla will enjoy this scent." - Sherry Chen, @mochiandblush

"Vanilla Rum Royal is another beautifully crafted fragrance from the brand. The packaging mirrors the elegance of Pistachio Delight, making it a stunning addition to my collection. I love how this scent strikes a perfect balance—clean and sophisticated, yet slightly bolder than its lighter counterpart.

What stood out to me the most was how well the fragrance developed over time. It’s rich without being overwhelming, and unlike some stronger scents, it never became too heavy or headache-inducing. I can see this becoming a go-to for special occasions when I want something a little more indulgent. Overall, a beautifully executed fragrance with a luxurious feel." - Loniesha Patterson, @pursuitofl
 

#3: Rosy&Earnest - Pistachio Delight - $125

Pistachio Delight by Rosy&Earnest is a gourmand fragrance inspired by the irresistible allure of pistachio-laden oriental pastries. This decadent scent opens with the nutty warmth of pistachia lentiscus oil and roasted pistachio chips, perfectly balanced by the creamy richness of vanilla absolute. The fragrance is deepened with a touch of musk and intense woods, creating a multi-layered, luxurious experience. Sweet, savory, and utterly indulgent, it’s a fragrance that leaves you smelling as delicious as you feel. Perfect for anyone who loves a rich, mouthwatering scent with a sophisticated twist.

Expert Notes:

"Pistachio Delight by Rosy & Earnest is exactly what its name suggests—an absolute delight! This fragrance is light, airy, and perfectly balanced, making it an effortless go-to for any occasion. I love how soft and inviting the scent is without being overwhelming. Plus, the bottle? Stunning! It adds the perfect aesthetic touch to my vanity. As someone with sensitive skin, I also appreciate that the formula didn’t cause any irritation. If you’re looking for a beautifully crafted, clean fragrance that feels fresh and luxurious, this one is a must-try!" - Loniesha Patterson, @pursuitofl

Today's clean fragrances bear little resemblance to the simple essential oil blends of the past. Advanced extraction techniques and innovative natural fixatives have revolutionized what's possible with botanical ingredients.

The clean fragrance category represents the pinnacle of clean beauty's commitment to transparency. These brands prove that exceptional perfumery can coexist with full ingredient disclosure, setting a new standard for the entire beauty industry.

Follow us on Instagram (@CertCleanInc) for more clean beauty recommendations from this year’s judging panel. You can also subscribe to our newsletter and grab your free copy of the 2025 Clean Beauty Awards Ultimate Guide, a full rundown of this year’s top-performing products