Question 1

What's the difference between Rare and Black Opium?

Accepted Answer

Rare is a feminine fragrance (marketed to women, though wearable by all) from Rare Beauty (2025) dominated by Vanilla accords. Black Opium is a feminine fragrance (marketed to women, though wearable by all) from Yves Saint Laurent (2014) leaning on Vanilla accords. They share 4 accords: Vanilla, Sweet, Woody, Warm Spicy.

Question 2

Which is better, Rare or Black Opium?

Accepted Answer

By community rating, Rare scores 3.97/5 vs Black Opium at 3.94/5. Black Opium's standout strength: Versatile statement fragrance choice mentioned in community recommendations. The "better" choice depends on what you value — longevity, projection, season fit, or signature character.

Question 3

Do Rare and Black Opium smell similar?

Accepted Answer

They share 2 notes and 4 accords, including Vanilla, Sweet, Woody, Warm Spicy, Pink Pepper. Black Opium: Black Opium by YSL is recognized by the r/fragrance community as a popular statement fragrance choice, particularly mentioned as an example of a bold evening scent.

Question 4

Which lasts longer, Rare or Black Opium?

Accepted Answer

Black Opium: Strong sillage and projection appreciated by wearers Longevity varies by skin chemistry, concentration, and application method.

Question 5

Which season suits Rare vs Black Opium?

Accepted Answer

Rare scores highest for fall wear; Black Opium scores highest for winter wear. Rare leans daytime, Black Opium leans evening.

Rare vs Black Opium

Comparison Summary

Shared Notes (2)

Unique to Rare (7)

Unique to Black Opium (9)

Shared Accords (4)

Frequently asked questions

Community Sentiment Pulse — Black Opium

Positive

Negative

Attribute	Rare	Black Opium
Brand	Rare Beauty	Yves Saint Laurent
Year	2025	2014
Rating	3.97	3.94
Concentration	—	—
Gender	feminine	feminine
Total Notes	9	11