Stress Relief - Eucalyptus + Spearmint Bath & Body Works

Stress Relief reads as a paradox—a fragrance that announces itself as a wellness product yet refuses to wear the austere minimalism such positioning might suggest. Daniel Pescio has crafted something far more sybaritic: a fruity-floral that leans into indulgence rather than clinical clarity. The opening assault of ylang ylang and mango creates an almost tropical exuberance, tempered by violet leaf's green whisper and bergamot's citric snap, whilst pink pepper adds a subtle bite that prevents the composition from becoming cloying.

What's genuinely compelling is the heart's restraint. Rather than doubling down on the fruity sweetness, Pescio introduces frangipani and jasmine—florals that read creamy and almost indolic—alongside an intriguing "sea breeze" accord that suggests ozonic coolness without resorting to synthetic aquatic tropes. The cashmeran brings a subtle animalic warmth, whilst clove and saffron suggest an almost chai-like spiciness lurking beneath the floral veneer. This is where the fragrance becomes wearable; the coconut-tinged heart prevents it from becoming a straightforward floral while the spice notes add complexity that justifies repeated wearings.