Fragrance Note
Pink Pepper
Used in 1318+ fragrances on FragranVerse
What it smells like
Pink pepper is the dried berry of Schinus terebinthifolia (Brazilian peppertree) and Schinus molle (Peruvian peppertree). Neither is botanically a true pepper. They belong to the Anacardiaceae (cashew/mango/sumac family), not the Piperaceae of black or white pepper. The shared name comes only from the small, dried, peppery berry shape and slight pungency. The cold-pressed or distilled berry oil (CAS 68917-52-2) is monoterpene-rich. α-phellandrene, β-phellandrene, limonene and α-pinene dominate, with a small fraction of terpinen-4-ol and bornyl acetate. The pungency comes from phenolic compounds in the pericarp, not from piperine.
How it's used in perfumery
Pink pepper is a top-note lifter and diffusion agent. Its high monoterpene content (80%+) creates an immediate sparkling effect that projects ahead of the rest of the formula. Functionally, it accelerates perceived sillage without adding weight. A metallic brightness that registers as 'modern' and 'clean.' It pairs with citrus materials for enhanced diffusion, with rose and violet for spiced-floral effects, and with iris and musk for sharp skin-scent contrasts.
Fun fact
A 2019 study found that 76.2% of cashew- and pistachio-allergic individuals showed cross-sensitization to pink peppercorn on skin prick testing.