Gum
Gum in perfumery refers to a sweet, chewy, and playful accord that captures the nostalgic scent of bubblegum or chewing gum—bright, fruity, and slightly powdery with a smooth, candied freshness. Its aroma combines synthetic fruit esters (like strawberry, banana, or peach) with sweet musks and vanilla, evoking the carefree joy of childhood confections. Depending on its construction, the Gum accord can lean toward pink-fruity (bubblegum-like), minty-fresh, or sugar-powdery, making it a versatile heart or top note in gourmand and pop-inspired fragrances.
History & Production: Originating from the playful gourmand wave of the late 20th century, the Gum accord is built entirely from synthetic materials, such as ethyl maltol (caramelized sugar), isoamyl acetate (banana), benzyl acetate (fruity-floral), and ionones (violet facets), blended with creamy musks and vanillin. In modern perfumery, it is often refined to evoke the soft, elastic sweetness of gum without excessive sugariness, lending a joyful, addictive charm to contemporary fragrances. When paired with rose, musk, or amber, the Gum accord adds a pop of playful sweetness and smooth, candied sensuality—the olfactory equivalent of a smile.