Lance Carson
Applying perfume is an art, and getting it just right can be a challenge. Too much, and your perfume will enter the room before you do; too little, and you might as well have saved your money. But it's not just about volume—it's about where you put it, and how. The world of perfumery says that how you apply a perfume is just as important as the composition of the notes. So, where are the best places to apply perfume, and how much is too much?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How much perfume to apply | A small amount, then add more if needed |
| Where to apply | Pulse points of the neck, wrists, inner elbows, behind the ears, behind the knees |
| Application technique | Spray, then let it dry before putting on clothes; do not rub wrists together |
| Clothing application | Avoid spraying on clothing as it may stain; only spray washable fabrics |
| Storage | Keep at room temperature, in the box it came in |
| Environment | Avoid temperature changes, steam, and ultraviolet rays |
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What You'll Learn
Apply directly to the skin
Applying perfume directly to the skin is the best way to make the scent last longer. The lipophilic (oil-loving) properties of the skin provide the perfect medium for the oils of the perfume to attach to. The warmth of the skin starts the unravelling process, allowing the scent to fully express itself.
When applying perfume to the skin, it is best to avoid rubbing it in. This is because the friction can cause the top notes of the fragrance to fade and evaporate before they can settle. Instead, the perfume should be allowed to slowly mix with the skin's natural oils. This process is what makes the scent last and can also make the same perfume smell slightly different from person to person.
To apply perfume to the skin, it is recommended to focus on the pulse points. These are areas where the veins sit closest to the skin, so you can literally feel your pulse. Pulse points include the inside of the wrists, inner elbows, below the belly button, behind the earlobes, the back of the knees, and the neck. These warm spots on the body emit extra body heat, which helps to diffuse the scent.
When applying perfume to the skin, it is also important to consider the concentration of the fragrance. Fragrances with higher concentrations, such as parfums or extraits, tend to have a stronger scent and last longer than those with lower concentrations. Parfums or extraits typically have a concentration of 20-30% and can last up to 24 hours. On the other hand, eau de toilettes have a concentration of 5-15% and usually last for 2-3 hours, making them ideal for daytime use.
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Avoid rubbing wrists together
While applying perfume to your wrists is the correct move, as it warms up and emits fragrance throughout the day, you should avoid rubbing your wrists together.
Rubbing your wrists together can dull the top notes of your perfume. Top notes are the most delicate molecules in the mix and usually the reason why you chose that perfume in the first place. By getting rid of them right away, you are not getting the most out of your perfume.
Rubbing your wrists together also vigorously mixes the perfume with your skin's natural oils, which can change the way it smells. The friction created by rubbing heats up the skin, which produces natural enzymes that alter the course of the scent.
Instead of rubbing your wrists together, lightly dab them together and then let the perfume air-dry. You can also apply an unscented moisturiser before you spritz to ensure all-day wear.
It is also important to note that where you put your perfume matters. Target areas exposed to the air, such as the pulse points of the neck, wrists, or inner elbows. However, if you are in a hot climate, it is best not to apply the scent directly to your body, as your natural oils can destroy your perfume faster.
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Target pulse points
Targeting pulse points is a great way to elevate your fragrance and boost its strength. Your pulse points are the areas of your body that emit more heat than others, and this heat activates and maximises your perfume.
The wrists are the most common place to apply perfume and are a great starting point for distributing your scent to other pulse points. Avoid rubbing your wrists together, as this can dull the top notes and vigorously mix the perfume with your natural oils, altering the scent. Instead, lightly dab your wrists together or to other pulse points.
The neck and behind the ears are also popular pulse points. Spraying on the sides of the neck and then touching the wrists to the fragrance is a great way to create a fragrance trifecta. You can also add a spritz to the back of the neck, which will gently waft the scent upwards.
Other pulse points include the crook of the elbow, which lasts longer than the wrist, and behind the knees. For oils, you can also try the chest, collarbone, and forearms.
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Don't spray on clothing
Why you shouldn't spray perfume on your clothes
While it may be tempting to spray perfume on your clothes, especially when you're in a hurry, there are several reasons why this isn't a good idea. Firstly, the alcohol in perfumes can cause staining or discolouration, especially on delicate fabrics. The perfume may also not last as long on clothing as it would on the skin, as it doesn't have the benefit of activating with the heat from your body, which helps to release the fragrance slowly over time.
Another reason to avoid spraying perfume on your clothes is that it can prevent the scent from going through its full range of scent stages. This can cause the scent to fall flat and appear monochrome. The fabric of the clothing may also impact the scent, causing it to smell more powdery or less complex than when applied to the skin.
If you must spray your clothes, it is recommended to do so sparingly and on a small area, such as the collar or cuff, rather than all over. It is also important to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the perfume does not stain or discolour the fabric. Additionally, fragrances with low alcohol content are better suited for spraying on clothes, as they will create a more subtle and long-lasting effect.
To ensure your perfume lasts longer and smells its best, it is recommended to apply it directly to the skin, especially the pulse points of the neck, wrists, inner elbows, and back of the knees. These areas are naturally warm and moist, allowing the perfume to be fully enjoyed. Applying perfume to these areas will also help prevent over-application, as the fragrance will diffuse throughout the day as you move.
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Less is more
Perfume is a personal accessory, and getting it just right can be a challenge. Too much, and your perfume will enter the room before you do; too little, and you might as well have saved your money. But, as Arnaud Guggenbuhl, Givaudan's head of global marketing, says, "It's accessible and fun for young people." So how can we get it right?
Firstly, it's important to remember that perfume tends to intensify as it warms up on your skin, so it's always better to start with a small amount and then add more if needed. This is especially true when applying to pulse points, as these areas are already warmer. Target the pulse points of the neck, wrists, inner elbows, and even behind the knees if you're wearing a dress or skirt. If you're wearing a sleeveless top, spritzing the inside of your elbows will help spread your scent around and linger within the fibres of your clothes.
It's also important not to rub your wrists together after applying perfume. This is a common habit, but it can dull the top notes of your fragrance and vigorously mix the perfume with your natural oils, changing the way it smells. Instead, lightly dab your wrists together or to other pulse points, or simply let the scent soak into your skin.
Finally, be wary of spraying perfume on your clothes, as it may discolour them. Stick to applying directly to the skin, and if you do want to spritz your clothes, make sure they're washable.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you apply no more than 5 sprays, no less than 2, and space them out across your wrists, neck, and body. This depends on the intensity of the fragrance, and you can always apply more later if needed.
Focus on your pulse points, which include the neck, wrists, inner elbows, below the belly button, behind the earlobes, and the back of the knees. These areas emit extra body heat, helping to naturally diffuse the scent.
Applying perfume to clothing is generally not recommended as it may stain or discolour the fabric. However, some people mist their clothing to make their scent last longer, especially in hot climates. If you do choose to apply perfume to your clothes, avoid materials like silk, and opt for washable fabrics instead.
A good way to check is to wait 5-7 seconds after applying your regular amount of perfume, then dab the area with a tissue. If it sticks or tears, you've likely applied too much. Another sign that you've overdone it is if you can smell your scent strongly when standing or sitting still.
