ICYMI, Y2K-era body sprays are back like they never left. But similar to low-rise jeans and excessive layering, modern day iterations of these trends aren’t like the ones we remember. Gone are the days of tweens spritzing themselves with Victoria’s Secret’s Love Spell. Instead, they’re headed to Sephora and picking up the latest mists to hit the shelves (or their TikTok FYP’s). Think: viral mists from Phlur, intense aromatics from Kayali and clean beauty spritzes from Ellis Brooklyn. But the brand leading the charge of this body spray resurgence? Sol de Janeiro.
Founded in 2015, Sol de Janeiro sought out to bring the lively spirit of Brazil to consumers, but perfume mists weren’t a part of their initial roadmap. It all started with their now-viral Brazilian Bum Bum cream, promising to firm and tighten skin while leaving a warm pistachio aroma in its place, which quickly rose to becoming the top product at Sephora after its debut at the retailer in 2017.
By 2024, Sol de Janeiro was listed as the top-selling brand at Sephora, replacing Selena Gomez’s Rare Beauty in the no. 1 spot, even after their expansion to Ulta retailers the same year. Whether it’s Gen-Z’s or TikTok’s influence—most likely both—Sol de Janeiro has solidified their name in beauty as one of the brands to watch for. Not only are the scents head-turning and compliment collectors to boot, they’re inspired by Brazil’s colorful culture, meant to transport you to the streets and beaches of Rio with every spritz and spray. But with a fragrance repertoire as lengthy as theirs, it can be hard to pinpoint the scent right for you. Which is why I took on the challenge of testing and trying the top Sol de Janeiro scents (hard job, I know). Here, I review and rank 10 of the brand’s best-selling body sprays, ranging from bakery-inspired gourmands to discotheque-ready florals.
