Atomic Rose

There is a stage in every guy's fragrance journey where he learns that there is no such thing as gender in perfumery and that if he likes something, he can wear it. If it smells great on him, then it is a great choice. For me, the first feminine leaning fragrance in my collection was Nishane's seminal Meant To Be Seen and I see Atomic Rose as similar and similarly wearable for me. Both are very powerful statement frags with real intent that almost require people to sit up and take notice of them. Of the two, Atomic Rose has the more feminine notes but is more accessible. It is a startlingly fine fragrance that really rewards the brave man who is prepared to challenge his own preconceptions to wear a rose-centric fragrance. If ever there was a specific smell of shattering preconceptions, Atomic Rose is it. The opening is a hit of pink pepper and rose oil and there is a sweetness that underpins but does not fully reveal itself until the drydown. There is subtle, rich vanilla when it dries and the jasmine is what holds this together. The end result is nothing short of haunting. It dries less powdery than MTBS but the parallels are there. I am pleased to say that both smell gorgeous on my skin. It is incredibly wearable too. You can get away with wearing this with just about anything. Performance is amazing, just as MTBS is. I sprayed it yesterday morning and woke up this morning still clearly able to smell the roses. In English we have a saying “come up smelling of roses” to mean someone who lucks out in a difficult situation and makes the best of things. This is an optimistic, boisterous smell that makes me feel like I can attack any challenge or hardship and come up smelling of roses. I wouldn’t call it a daily wearer but more of a secret weapon. I don't know anyone else who smells like this and certainly none of the guys I know would wear this, but it is an absolute weapon in the arsenal and (yes big statement I know but) this is just as wearable as Side Effect or Oud For Greatness. When you absolutely, positively, have to smell better and more interesting than every other man in the room (yes, even here in Dubai) then Atomic Rose is a fantastic choice. Absolutely magnificent stuff. Scent - 8/10 Sillage - 9/10 Drydown - 8/10 Bottle//Packaging - 10/10 Performance - 10/10 45/50

On my quest to find the most photorealistic rose scent, I finally found Atomic Rose. Hearing this perfume described as a dark, sultry scent was kind of offputting as I typically associate those descriptions with scent profiles such as incense, oud, or anything musky and I don't really reach for those scents. I finally sampled this perfume and immediately bought the full-sized perfume. I can see why this perfume is described as a darker version of Delina; it is literally like sticking your nose in a bouquet of FULLY bloomed red roses with just a teeny tiny hint of vanilla in the background. There is no synthetic smell in this perfume. If I had to compare it to other perfumes: PDM Delina - PDM Delina is Atomic Rose's fluffy little sister. Delina has a gorgeous rose scent, but it doesn't have the depth of this perfume. I would wear Delina in the daytime and Atomic Rose in the nighttime. Roses Vanille - Roses Vanille, to me, is like PDM with more vanilla. Compared to Atomic Rose, Roses Vanille has more vanilla and less fresh/sweet rose smell. Red Roses by Joe Malone - Red Roses by Joe Malone is probably the most photorealistic rose smell I have smelled, but its longevity is so bad. Atomic Rose is like Red Roses but beast mode. Speaking of beast mode, this is the most beast-mode perfume in my collection. I have to wash my clothes to get rid of the scent. Sometimes, my dogs roll around in my clothes, and they end up smelling like this perfume. If you love roses, this perfume is a must in your collection.

In theory, I should enjoy this one. The notes are right up my alley. But there is something about this one that doesn't jive with me. It's not a lush, dark and velvety type of rose that I enjoy. I think that part is MAYBE there but it's overshadowed, especially in the dry down, by some type of musky base. If I'm going for a dark and lush rose, I much prefer a scent such as Radical Rose or Dreamhouse Ikiryo Rose Of Venus (👈 Amazingly beautiful jammy and lush DARK rose, potent!! Sign up for emails on his website and catch one of his frequent BOGO sales!) or BDK Tabac Rose. Even Chopard Love or Portrait Of A Lady. I'll finish up my sample and see if my opinion changes bc so many times, a dislike turns into a love but I don't see that happening with this one. The opening is nice but there is something heavily musky (Narciso type of musk, can't stand it) that deviates this away from the lush dark rose I thought it would be. I had the same experience with Infini Rose by Maison Alhambra...but even that was better than this one and IIRC, I kind of enjoyed it. So much can be done with a deep and dark rose note. It can be taken in so many different directions. But whatever direction this one is heading in ends up in a wrong turn for me. Of course, fragrance is subjective and we all love what we love so YMMV and I totally respect that! I don't hate this one but I'm very ambivalent about it, especially for the price.

I dig this one. When i first spray it, it smells somewhat tightly wound and if I spray a few in a row, I def get that Cat Piss note everyone talks about from time to time. Very faint though. It unwinds to a really beautiful Ambree type perfume that I just can't get enough of. It’s like kinda dark and I'm freebasing this shit over here. I'm a chick with a femme side but I could totally see a dude rocking this too. Really reminds me of the kinds of fragrances my Egyptian dude friends used to rock in San Francisco. Initio is the shit! BTW the comparisons to Delina I feel are unwarranted. Delina is great and all but it doesn't have the dark complexity that Atomic Rose has. Just tried Delina today and I ended up taking it off so I could wear Atomic Rose. For what Delina is, it's great but Delina is more like clean smelling and not as darkly complex. ==== Update 7/15/25 So don’t overspray. First, there’s no need cause the sillage is good and the longevity is even better. Second, it smells very bad if you overspray. I had this experience because I dug the dry down so much, I liberally reapplied and then I hated the fragrance for like a week. I’m back on it and again oversprayed because I cannot be taught. Apply it once, then if you reapply, do so really conservatively. I’ma spring for a bottle.

This did a complete 180 on me. When I initially sampled it, it REEKED of alcohol to the point where I couldn't smell anything besides that and the pepper. That decant has been sitting in my drawer like a hibernating bear for some months and baby SHE IS UP NOW!!! I put some on the inner part of my arm today and I still got a burst of pepper (which I don't like), but underneath that is a fragrance so beautiful, so sexy, alluring, and intoxicating! I FINALLY SMELLED THE ROSE!!! And it has such a lovely sweet touch. It's not overbearing at all, I can't stand when a fragrance is too sweet. But it's gorgeous, it smells luxury, but not in the way of like money or precious metals and fine architecture (cold & impersonal). It smells like modern luxury, warm and romantic. When I smell this I envision being somewhere lavish, dimly lit with warm white lights on a dark and wet fall evening, wearing a sexy, slightly sophisticated red dress, soothing jazz music playing softly from a distance, a tall handsome man in an all-black suit holding a beautiful, perfectly blossomed bouquet of red roses, all dewy and sparkly as if he just picked them from a garden in the rain outside, while a fluffy gormet dessert is being prepared in the background.

Atomic Rose is, without exaggeration, a nuclear explosion in a bottle. As a man who deeply appreciates high-end perfumery, I have to admit—this scent completely disarmed me, yet it drew a very clear line. The first time I caught a whiff, I was struck by this incredible, powerhouse rose. It’s not your 'grandma’s rose' or something dated. This is a modern, dark, slightly metallic, and incredibly sexy rose, infused with bergamot and that signature Initio DNA that screams luxury. The performance is borderline illegal; one spray fills a room and stays on skin for an eternity. However, even though it’s marketed as unisex, on my skin, it just doesn’t feel right. It is too feminine, too seductive in a way that belongs to a powerful, confident woman. If I smelled this on a woman, I’d definitely turn my head. On a man? It’s wearable, but it loses that magical, dangerous edge. For me, Atomic Rose is the ultimate gift for a woman you never want to forget. A masterpiece that I would much rather breathe in from her than wear myself.even it is unisex parfume. So guys what do you think is this parfume more for man or women?

So, I recently received a sizable sample of Ex Nihilo "Spiky Muse," which is one of the newest rose perfume releases from the house. The fragrance is beguiling and piqued my interest to explore (a few) rose-centric fragrances once again. I'm not a fan of big, lush, juicy, jammy rose soliflore perfumes. I prefer drier rose fragrances with additional notes and elements added in...adds some interest and depth to the fragrance, IMHO. Atomic Rose is very very nice. The fragrance truly is a pleasant surprise. The star of the show in "Atomic Rose" is of course, rose. The rose feels young, a bit dewy but not juicy. The fragrance wears in an arid, or "dry" way, which I like a lot. There is some development with mixed floral mid-notes. The dry down is vanilla amber. The notes seemlessly blend. The fragrance is simplistic & straight-forward. The fragrance is really pretty. Just not sure I like rose soliflore perfumes enough to invest in a full bottle. To date, Memo Paris "African Rose" is my absolute favorite rose-centric fragrance. With all this said, Atomic Rose is really quite nice. Really special.

This right here, is what I was looking for. After testing it once I bought the full bottle next day. You get a photorealistic rose in this fragrance with some vanilla. I can smell some peony-ish scent (very close to rose). The point of this fragrance is to smell like the flower rose, its so natural, sexy and elegant! Its unisex, I as a man can wear it with confidence! I really get similarities with Les Sables Roses, the rose note in them is the same (but overall they are different). I had Lyric Man by Amouage and I prefer Atomic Rose way more. Overall, if you want to smell exactly like a rose, buy this. Dont need to worry about people calling it a womans fragrance! Re-reviewing it nearly a year later: The new batches 2023+ are different, and I dont like them as much as the old ones. Its because of Lilial, an ingredient used in many perfumes. Sadly its missing in a bad way. This version is still good, but I'd rather go with Oud Satin Mood EDP if you like the scentprofile. Its heavier but better overall.

(feminine opening and unisex drydown as the other notes take part) its amazing the reviews saying its for women dont listen to them there braindead and talking nonsense they think "uhh rose is pink and a flower so its made for women" this is an elegant sophisticated rose not an old lady rose if you get an initio sample thats made by initio it says made for FEMININE and MASCULINE in the creators quote on the inside as you flick it open this is a 9/10 its solid and an elegant sophisticated rose and it has hints of vanilla and a its smooth and refined and its top 3 initios in my opinion. and if your a guy that wants to wear a rose this is where its at on a tester it smells more feminine then on the skin so make sure to try it on skin. your ph, sweat level and diet changes it so maybe it mighe smell very girl for you, maybe it might smell more vanilla for you so always test things in person rose is one of them things where you have to be carefull because not many companies can do it nicely.

This is not blind buy safe. I did not like this one in the beginning as it was too peppery and ambery. I sprayed it on my skin and that's where the magic happens. Initio Parfums has created an intoxicating rose scent that is edgy and ultra sexy for both sexes. I love rose in perfumes in all its various profiles. It's a versatile and fun note and can really amplify a perfume when blended well in my opinion. For example, Jardins de Misfah, Delina, Diptyque's Eau Rose, and Narciso Rodriguez Musc Noir Rose, all are anchored around rose and they all smell lovely. Atomic Rose is a deep, sexy, dark and spicy rose scent that stays relatively bright because of that citrusy- dewy facet. If this scent had a color, it'd be a deep scarlet or magenta. And it's perfectly unisex, which makes this one so brilliant. It's strong. You only need two sprays and it lasts all day. This one is good. And if you can find this one on the gray markets, buy it. Because it sells out FAST. 10/10.

Atomic rose indeed. A salesperson insisted I try this awhile back but it didn’t grab me. However, every time I went into places that carried it, I kept circling back to it. So here we are a few months later and I purchased the smaller size bottle on a very good sale. Atomic Rose is sensual, she is a little fresh, she is mysterious, and she did not come to play. On me, the projection, sillage, and longevity are fantastic with two sprays. I can detect all of the notes listed and I find it quite linear which in this case is a wonderful thing. She’s a banger for all seasons, times of day, and occasions. I have PDM Delina, Diptyque Eau Rose, and Mancera Roses Vanille and have read all the comparisons. Yes, they’re all rose forward fragrances, but I don’t draw a direct link between any of them. Each one is distinct. I grudgingly believe this is one of those wildly expensive perfumes that is worth it. Confidence and sex appeal in a bottle for all genders.

As a man....this shit is so good!!!! Sexy asf!!! I use to HATEEEEE ROSEEEE trust me. But this year I've been trying to develop my nose to learn and appreciate Rose and I own a few in my collection like the Delina, A la Rose, and Impadia, and others. So Rose is starting to creep into my top 5 favorite notes. Atomic Rose is closer to BDK Impadia, and the note structure is similar. Surprisingly, Atomic Rose is a bit smoother (which can sometimes be uncommon for Initio) and slightly sweeter, and that's probably because of the lack of the woody notes that Impadia has. Both still amazing. Between the two, I would say Atomic Rose is perfect for during the day, and Impadia perfect for night. But both can be worn anytime, it's just a separation between the two. I love the way I'm developing my nose and sense of smell and I already know on a man this one will drive women or anyone crazy it's so good.

Atomic Rose is a fiery rose explosion — pink pepper and bergamot igniting lush Bulgarian and Turkish roses, like velvet petals crushed with jasmine in a spicy, vanilla haze that demands attention. The opening crackles with zesty pepper buzz and citrus spark, surging into a rich, non-naturalistic rose heart amplified by hedione's jasmine radiance — vivacious, unisex, and unapologetically potent without heaviness. It dries to seductive depth: musky Madagascar vanilla and amber wrap everything in a swoon-worthy, long-lasting glow — evoking a sexy, modern rose that's rich yet balanced, never tipping into cloying territory. Far from shy soliflores, it's a statement scent blending beauty and intensity for rose lovers craving compliments. Lasts 10+ hours with beast-mode projection — perfect for evenings when you want unforgettable, skin-owning allure.

A sophisticated and sexy rose rendition that will seduce and scintillate in equal measure. Initio fragrances always blow you away out of the gates, and Atomic Rose is no different, exploding with prickly pink pepper and rambunctious rose. The vanilla rises like a mushroom cloud and the waxy amber givea this a bodied, almost dark red wine feel. It leans feminine but can be worn by a confident man. I can't really tell the difference between Turkish and Bulgarian Rose but there is a slight synthetic smell to this and the overpowering rose may be too much for some (it certainly dominated the elevator I was in) so be warned she is not a safe blind buy. Atomic Rose is floral seducation. It is a late night sensual bath with a lover. Water sweetened by petals and passionate intentions. Mosaic tiles glistening under candle light and desire.

This IS NOT A DELINA DUPE. it may fill a sort of Delina space if you don’t do much perfume analysis. It’s much ‘rosier’, somewhat more old fashioned, I feel there is a hint of the oud chord in the mid. Not nearly as distinctive and downright sexy as Delina, which screams unfettered that you are out on the hunt with your eyes narrowed to slits and you don’t believe in sleep. Atomic Rose is bright hot red not flouro barbie pink. Nonetheless it’s a beautiful rose perfume, modern, grippy, frantic. I just used the last of my sample to write this, and am already planning at least a large decant, because it is beautiful and distinctive and unforgettable. I would dare say you could blind buy it if you love heart slashing roses, and it’s more unisex than Delina. But Delina is in my desert island box, this is in my love it box...

If you are from South East Asia, or been to South East Asia, you may be familiar with this drink called Bandung. It's basically Rose Syrup mixed with condensed/evaporated milk. To me at least Atomic Rose reminds me of this drink. It's a sweet scent but not headache inducing at all. The vanilla kind of neutralises the sourness of what a rose scent would be, and the bergamot gives this a fresh spin, making this suitable for hotter seasons. As a guy, I was hesitant to try this out. But eventually gathered some courage to test this in the retail store and my goodness I've been missing out. I have side effect, paragon, musk therapy and this to me shoot right to number 1 slot in terms of my initio collection. 9/10 for me. Would be nice if its slightly creamier, and curious on how this would layer with Oud for Greatness

This was my first niche purchase and has a special place in my collection. For me, the combination of the pink pepper and bergamot in the opening is reminiscent of the spicy greenness of the leaves and stems of flowers. I can’t pick out the jasmine at all in the mid, just luscious rich rose. It’s like putting your nose fully into the blooming flower when it’s completely opened up. There is a bit of a jamminess, but it’s not overly sweet. I get more amber than vanilla in the base, and an animalic quality. This is probably my most complimented perfume, by both women and men. The performance is stellar. I don’t find this very similar to all the other QB roses. Delina is more sweet/sharp; Delina EX is more vanilla/powdery, Hibiscus Mahajad is more fruity/vanilla, Fetiche La Rose is more warm/spicy.

Just test smelled this at a store and wow. This is my type of vibe in a fragrance. First Initio I really really like. I’m going to get a full bottle of this, I’ve been thinking about it ever since I sprayed it on at the store, and NO this isnt a women’s only fragrance . It’s perfectly unisex fragrance, even with a dominant rose accord if you’re a confident guy you can easily pull it off. it’s a beautiful sweet jammy rose type of scent. Imagine this rose on steroids that has been turned into a super sweet jam. And you have this. It’s addictive and the dry down on my jacket is getting better. I feel I’m gonna run through the first bottle so fast. I love this type of perfume and I feel it will be in my top 5 out of all my fragrances. Lovely seductive sweet rose scent that a guy can wear.

Despite the rose being supported by the Madagascar vanilla, it's super fresh, I'd say you might wear it even in summer but don't overspray. It is not your typical marmalade, sweet rose that is super suffocating, no. This one is very lively, fresh, and easy to wear. The performance is very good, it lasts for a long time, and projects enough to make people notice you as soon as you enter the room. This fragrance changed my view on rose scents and despite the Fragrantica rating swaying heavily on the "feminine" side I'd say it's a great unisex fragrance that will smell great on both men and women. Before buying, get yourself a decant to see if you like this kind of take on rose, but if up until now, you've been associating rose fragrances with suffocating sweetness, give this one a try.

This is beautiful. I will say, use less than you think you need - The first time I wore it I couldn't smell it enough so I sprayed a few extra times before I left home. But it grows as it sits and warms up with your body chemistry and lasts for hours; luckily it wasn't an office day or we'd have needed to open windows. But it isn't unpleasant in the slightest. It's warm, spicy, just the tiniest bit sweet as it dries down and very fresh rose forward (not funeral arrangement roses or synthetic). The boldness and staying power reminds me of Delina, but this is deeper and not as cloying. I personally wouldn't wear this in the dead of summer or to the gym, but others could pull it off. Another win from Initio, although Psychedelic Love is still my favorite by them.