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Original Musk
by Kiehl's
Kiehl's Original Musk is a unisex fragrance with a clean, soapy musk foundation enriched with white florals, powdery depth, and a warm, slightly animalic base. It opens with a bright citrus and floral burst reminiscent of bergamot, orange blossom, and lily, creating a clean yet slightly indolic impression that some find reminiscent of laundry or a bathroom soap. Over time, it evolves into a soft, intimate, skin-scent-like musk with subtle ylang-ylang, rose, and tonka bean tones, leaving a creamy, powdery warmth. Longevity is moderate to good—lasting several hours—though sillage is subdued, blending close to the skin. It performs best in cooler months, especially autumn and winter, and is well-suited for casual or intimate settings. While some perceive it as too skanky or aromatic, others consider it accessible and versatile, especially for those seeking a classic, clean animalic musk with a soft, comforting dry down.
Pros
- +Soft, intimate, and wearable 'skin scent' that feels like a second layer of the body
- +Balanced floral and musk complex with good depth without being overwhelming
- +Affordable performance with moderate longevity and subtle sillage suitable for daily wear
Cons
- −Strong initial impression can be polarizing, with some perceiving a urine-like or soapy note
- −Low projection makes it less noticeable in public settings
- −May not appeal to those seeking a bold, long-lasting, or highly animalic musk