The world of beauty has seen solid applicators take over, with foundations, concealers, and contour sticks becoming more popular than liquid formulas. Brands like Vieve, Milk Makeup, and Merit have led the way, and now this trend is making its mark on the fragrance industry. More and more brands are releasing their signature scents in solid forms, offering convenience, longevity, and a more intimate fragrance experience.
According to Lee Howes, Fragrance Category Lead at LUSH, solid perfumes provide a closer scent experience that people notice up close as the balm warms on the skin. They are perfect for on-the-go use and situations where spraying perfume is not ideal.
LUSH Rose Jam Solid Perfume
Lush's Rose Jam solid perfume proves that great fragrance doesn't need to come in a bottle. Priced at just £12, this handy balm melts into the skin, releasing the iconic Rose Jam scent—a sweet, jammy rose with zingy lemon and a soft hint of geranium. It's subtle yet long-lasting, ideal for topping up on the go, and perfect for those who prefer a softer, more intimate fragrance.
The solid perfume uses a base of organic jojoba oil, candelilla wax, and castor oil, making it gentle and suitable for those with alcohol sensitivity. Apply it to pulse points like wrists, neck, and décolletage for best results.
Fenty Parfum Solid Fragrance
Fenty's solid fragrance transforms Rihanna's cult perfume into a handbag-ready balm. Housed in a sleek, jewel-like compact, the alcohol-free formula melts into the skin to release warm notes of magnolia, musk, tangerine, and Bulgarian rose. Priced at £49, it offers a softer, more intimate scent that lingers beautifully throughout the day.
Sol de Janeiro Cheirosa 62 Jelly Perfume Balm
Sol de Janeiro's Cheirosa 62 Jelly Perfume Balm puts the brand's iconic summer scent into a compact solid. The balm melts into the skin, releasing warm notes of pistachio, salted caramel, and vanilla. At £25, it's a brilliant alternative to the spray for a subtle, sun-drenched fragrance that lingers without overpowering.
Dior J'adior Solid Perfume
Dior's J'adior solid perfume is a chic, handbag-friendly way to wear the iconic J'adore Eau de Parfum. The balm glides onto the skin, releasing luminous floral notes of ylang-ylang, rose, and jasmine. Housed in a couture-inspired compact, it's perfect for discreet top-ups at £69.
Glossier You Solid
Glossier You Solid takes the brand's cult-favourite fragrance and turns it into a sleek, pocket-friendly balm. The alcohol-free formula melts into the skin with notes of pink pepper, iris, and soft musk, creating a clean, skin-like scent that evolves throughout the day. Priced at £35, it leaves no residue and garners compliments.
Diptyque Fleur de Peau Refillable Solid Perfume
Diptyque's Fleur de Peau solid perfume is a beautifully understated option for those who prefer a subtle scent. The smooth balm releases soft musky notes with hints of iris and powdery florals. At £56, it offers a delicate alternative with white musky florals and romantic powdered aromas.
Lee's top tip for longer-lasting fragrance is to apply both solid and liquid versions of the same scent. Moisturised skin holds perfume longer, so applying the solid first as a base and then the liquid on top provides a great balance between projection and longevity.
