Ishq Al Shuyukh Gold

Is it Worth It?

If Ishq Al Shuyukh Gold were a character, it would be the well-meaning, slightly out-of-touch aunt who always gifts you the same overly sweet body spray every Christmas.

Notes & Nuances

Ishq Al Shuyukh Gold opens with a blast of something akin to spiced potpourri – think cloves and cinnamon sticks left too long in a simmering pan. The "exotic floral notes" are unfortunately a vague, indistinct sweetness, lacking the nuanced character of actual flowers. It evokes the aroma of department store perfume counters. As it settles, the carnation and lily-of-the-valley attempt to surface, but they're fighting against a cloying vanilla undertone. The drydown is dominated by a synthetic amber and an artificial musk, ultimately delivering a plasticky sweetness that lingers uncomfortably on the skin. While it gestures toward the intended inspiration, it falls short, substituting depth and complexity with an overdose of sugary elements.

Projection Power

Longevity is surprisingly robust, clocking in at around 7-8 hours on my skin. Projection is moderate for the first two hours, extending about an arm's length, before gradually receding closer to the body. I wore it to a grocery store and then while working from home. It didn't evolve much throughout the day and maintained that syrupy aroma.