There’s no denying the sway Sol de Janeiro hold in the beauty arena – and on the Grazia beauty desk. When a fresh delivery of fragrance mist samples arrive into the office, there’s always something of a scramble to be the first to spritz ourselves with a hefty dose of the stuff. And good news, as we've just had a fresh delivery of limited edition scents. Scroll on for my full review below.
At this point, I’m well versed in every single Sol de Janeiro fragrance mist going, and my well trained nose can identify the various editions within seconds. They smell juicy and succulent without straying into too sweet to handle territory. I do understand why the brand is prone to going viral and selling out - it's no wonder that one TikToker described them as 'totally addictive.' And if you've been toying with the idea of picking up a spray for yourself, but you're still debating which Sol de Janeiro scent is best, let me help you narrow it down. Scent is always a personal choice, but a good recommendation goes a long way. Here's my take:
Shop: The Best Sol de Janeiro Mists
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If smelling sweet (and I mean sweet) is your MO, then the Cheirosa ’71 could be a contender. One spritz is brimming with caramelised vanilla, toasted macadamia, white chocolate and coconut blossom – a medley that wouldn't smell out of place in a bakery. A subtle sprinkle of sea salt does, however, add a much needed touch of freshness. While I don't think it's the most sophisticated of spritzes, it does pack a (sugary sweet) punch that’s bound to have people asking what scent you're wearing - it's also Zara McDermott's favourite fragrance. If you want to smell good enough to eat? Then this one is for you.
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Falling in love with a scent that has the potential to be discontinued? Traumatic. Naturally then, when I found out that the Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance perfume mist was a limited edition launch, panic ensued. But while it is decidedly lovely, it's not quite made my top three. Phew. This one errs on the more refreshing earthy side thanks to a mesh of solar tuberose and ylang ylang. While it's not my favourite in the Sol de Janeiro mist range, there's no denying that this scent works hard - I could still smell it on my skin after four hours. An impressive achievement for a body mist.
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Out of all the iconic Sol Je Janeiro mists, Cheirosa ’40 is perhaps the least talked about. But for me, it’s something of a hidden gem. While it does contain some of the signature Sol de Janeiro base notes (vanilla and warm musk) this one feels decidedly less summery, and takes a more autumnal turn. There’s black amber plum and jasmine bloom which combine for a intoxicating, cosy medley. While I’m not yet using it as an excuse to order in a Pumpkin Spice Latte and indulge in a Harry Potter marathon (the only correct way to spend an autumn day) it is one I’d consider reaching for on cooler, late summer evenings. And trust me when I say, it really does linger on the skin.
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Undeniably one of Sol de Janeiro’s most talked about mists, this one is something of a fragrance heavy weight – it’s not hard to see why it went viral after Sami Elishi spritzed hers before bed on Love Island. It’s heady and floral with a subtle, exotic twist – think honey sweet notes of pink dragon fruit and lychee which made me feel like I was supping on a delicious cocktail in the Maldives – not slurping through a lukewarm coffee in the office. If you’re a fan of Glossier’s iconic ‘You’ then the dry down of this one might feel familiar – creamy vanilla and rich sun musk are the final notes left lingering for a warm, subtle glow that smells like your skin but better. Lush.
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If you've been wondering 'What does Sol de Janeiro smell like?' then consider this the protoype. If, like me, you’re a fan of the iconic Bum Bum Cream and Bum Bum Body Oil, then you’ll also be a fan of the now iconic Cheirosa ’62. If it’s Brazillian beach vibes you’re after? Then it’s Brazillian beach vibes you’ll get. Intoxicating vanilla and caramel combined with pistachio and almond making this one feel like sunshine in a bottle. I’ll mist this everywhere, across damp skin after a shower and even across my hair for an extra hit of fragrance. Which Sol de Janeiro scent is best? For me, it's got to be this one. Buy it - you'll not regret it.
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One of the newer kids on the block, Sol de Janeiro's fragrance After Hours, is taking TikTok by storm. If you love the sweetness of the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Crush Cheirosa 62 Perfume Mist but prefer something that feels a little more sophisticated then After Hours could be the one for you. It's made with notes of blackcurrant, pear nectar, vanilla crème and amber woods. Find it on ASOS now, before it's discontinued - it's limited edition.
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Cheirosa 59 is for those with a penchant for something sweet. Expect warming notes of vanilla orchid, sugared violet, and sheer sandalwood. Jerome Epinette (the nose behind Harry Styles recent fragrances and Byredo's Gypsy water) says, 'this fragrance captures the emotion of winding down after a perfect beach day. Evocative notes are elevated with exquisite florals, while juicy plum brings a bold, creamy touch.' Sold.
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If the typical Sol de Janeiro scent feels a little on the sugary side then give the new Limited edition Beijos De Sol Perfume a spritz. Made with a blend of peach skin, coconut milk, delicate florals and frangipani, it's certainly sweet, but in a more subtle, muted way. It only takes a light misting for it to really linger on the hair and skin.
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If you've not got on board with the new Sol de Janeiro Limited Edition Summer É Amor Perfume Mist then chances are you'll be swayed by the magenta pink packaging for starters. And the scent is pretty good too - to say the least. Expect a mesh of creamy almond, vibrant orange flower and sunkissed woods. A holiday beach day must.
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Sophisticated yet playful, the Sol de Janeiro Limited Edition Carioca Crush Perfume Mist is the latest to reach viral status on social media. Expect a gorgeously vibrant scent bursting with notes of crisp pear, warm cedarwood and pink violet. Created to to 'evoke the sunshine and energy of a summer day,' expect a new favourite that is sure to boost your mood.
Is Sol de Janeiro cruelty free?
Good news, Sol de Janeiro is cruelty- free - they've confirmed that they don't test their ingredients or final products on animals or sell them where animal testing is required by law.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Junior Beauty Editor. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism.