Musk is a class of aromatic substances commonly used as base notes in perfumery. It is a warm, subtle scent defined by a complex range of powdery, sweet, woodsy, and earthy aroma impressions. Fruity or floral undertones can also be detected depending on the musk. Musk was originally obtained from a gland of the musk deer and has been used as a popular perfume fixative since ancient times. However, natural musk was used extensively in perfumery until the late 19th century when economic and ethical motives led to the adoption of synthetic musk, which is now used almost exclusively. The organic compound primarily responsible for the characteristic odor of musk is muscone.

The scent of musk is often described as animalistic, earthy, and woody or something akin to the odor of babys skin. Synthetic musks are somewhat opposite, bringing in mellow undertones and floral fragrances, which are better suited as a binder. Musk has a three-dimensional quality that allows it to be used in various ways. You can find musk as the base, mid, or top layer of a scent. However, since musk doesnt fit a particular category, its often used as a base.

In summary, musk is a warm, subtle scent defined by a complex range of powdery, sweet, woodsy, and earthy aroma impressions. It was originally obtained from a gland of the musk deer and has been used as a popular perfume fixative since ancient times. Nowadays, synthetic musk is used almost exclusively in perfumery. The scent of musk is often described as animalistic, earthy, and woody or something akin to the odor of babys skin.