Katrina Rosales
There is a lot more to wearing perfume than just a simple spritz and go. The world of perfumery is both a science and an art, and the way you apply your fragrance can make a big difference in how long it lasts and how it smells. There are several common mistakes that people make when applying perfume, such as rubbing your wrists together after application, which can change the course of the scent and cause it to lose its crispness. So, how should you wear perfume?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to apply | Spritz both wrists lightly, let the liquid sink in, and then do not rub your wrists together |
| Where to apply | The pulse points of the neck, wrists, inner elbows, behind the ears, knees, and collarbone |
| Skin type | Perfume doesn't last long on dry skin, so use a companion body lotion or an unscented moisturizer |
| Clothing | Don't cover up the perfume with your clothing; target areas exposed to the air |
| Intensely hot climate | Do not apply scent directly to your body; lightly mist your hair, scarf, or sarong instead |
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What You'll Learn
Avoid rubbing wrists together
When it comes to applying perfume, it's important to note that the placement of the scent depends on the environment, outfit, and whether you want to enjoy the fragrance yourself or project it to others. While the wrists are a common pulse point for perfume application, it is advisable to avoid rubbing them together after application.
Rubbing your wrists together can negatively impact the integrity and longevity of your fragrance. According to award-winning perfumer Francis Kurkdjian, the friction from rubbing your wrists together heats up the skin, producing natural enzymes that alter the course of the scent. Specifically, it can break down or dull the top notes, which are the most delicate molecules and often the heart of the perfume. This can cause the scent to lose its crispness and change the way it develops on your skin.
Instead of rubbing your wrists together, let the perfume sink into your skin and dry naturally. You can lightly dab your wrists together, but avoid vigorous rubbing or mixing with your natural oils. This will help preserve the original scent and ensure it lasts longer.
To further enhance the longevity of your fragrance, you can apply an unscented moisturizer or a companion body lotion to your skin before spraying the perfume. This will provide a hydrating base and slow down the evaporation of the scent. Additionally, consider applying perfume to other pulse points, such as the neck, inner elbows, or behind the ears, to prolong the fragrance and allow it to diffuse throughout the day.
By avoiding the common mistake of rubbing your wrists together and following these simple tips, you can make the most of your perfume and enjoy your favorite scent for longer.
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Target pulse points
Targeting pulse points is a great way to make your perfume last longer. Pulse points are areas on your body where the blood vessels are close to the skin's surface, creating extra heat. The heat enhances the fragrance and helps it circulate into the air, making it last longer.
Some of the most effective pulse points to target when applying perfume are the wrists, inside of the elbows, behind the knees, and the neck. These areas are typically exposed to the air, allowing the scent to diffuse throughout the day. If you're wearing a sleeveless blouse, for example, target the pulse points of your neck, wrists, or inner elbows.
Another good pulse point to consider is behind the ears. Applying perfume here also puts a hint of scent in your hair, allowing the fragrance to last longer and diffuse subtly throughout the day. This is also a good option if you're wearing jewellery, as it helps you avoid tarnishing your necklaces.
If you're wearing a shirt with a collar, you can dab a small amount of perfume on the back of your neck. This area is usually covered by clothing, making your scent last longer and preventing it from becoming overpowering for others. Similarly, you can try spraying perfume down your back for a more natural scent.
While pulse points are ideal for enhancing your perfume's longevity, avoid applying perfume to your hands. This can lead to dry skin and potential eye irritation if you touch your eyes after application. It's also best to refrain from spraying perfume directly into your hair, as it may dry and damage your locks. Instead, opt for a hair mist that complements your perfume.
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Don't cover with clothing
When applying perfume, it's important to remember not to cover the areas where you've sprayed with clothing. This is because perfume is designed to interact with your body's chemistry and the warmth from your body. Applying perfume directly to your skin allows the scent to develop naturally and helps it to last longer.
Perfumers recommend applying perfume to your pulse points, which are generally the warmest parts of your body. These include your neck, wrists, and inner elbows. Spraying perfume onto these areas and allowing it to dry naturally will enable the fragrance to diffuse throughout the day.
It is best to avoid spraying perfume onto your clothes, as this can cause staining and discolouration. The scent also won't last as long on fabric as it does on skin. If you're wearing a sleeveless blouse, for example, apply perfume to your wrists and inner elbows, allowing the fragrance to linger and diffuse without being covered by clothing.
In addition to avoiding spraying your clothes, be mindful not to rub your wrists together after applying perfume. This can interfere with the drying process and alter the aroma of the fragrance. Instead, let the perfume dry down naturally, allowing the layers of fragrance to properly play their role.
If you're in a hot climate, it's recommended to avoid applying perfume directly to your body, as the natural oils from sweating can destroy the scent faster. In this case, you can try lightly misting your hair, scarf, or sarong. The movement of these fabrics will help with the diffusion of the scent.
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Store perfume correctly
Storing your perfume correctly is essential to maintaining its scent, quality, and longevity. Exposure to heat, light, and fluctuating temperatures can degrade the quality of perfumes over time. Therefore, the ideal place to store perfume is a cool, dry, and dark area.
Avoid storing your perfume in the bathroom, as the humidity and temperature variations can accelerate deterioration. Instead, store your perfume in a closet or cabinet outside of the bathroom. Some people even store their perfume in the fridge, although this is not necessary unless you live in an extremely hot climate. If you do choose to store your perfume in the fridge, be aware that the cold temperature can soil a perfume's delicate chemical balance.
Keep your perfume in its original box whenever possible, as it provides an extra layer of protection against light exposure and temperature changes. Additionally, avoid shaking your perfume bottle excessively, as this can introduce air bubbles and alter the composition of the fragrance.
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your favourite fragrances remain fresh and captivating for an extended period.
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Consider the environment
When it comes to wearing perfume, it's important to be mindful of the environment. Here are some ways to ensure you're being eco-friendly:
Firstly, consider the ingredients of your perfume. Traditional perfumes often contain synthetic chemicals derived from petrochemicals, which are not eco-friendly. These synthetic musks can persist and bioaccumulate in the environment, and have even been detected in fish and sediments in the Great Lakes of North America. To reduce your environmental impact, opt for perfumes made from essential oils or organic and therapeutic-grade fragrances. These options smell delightful while also offering therapeutic benefits. Additionally, look for brands that prioritize sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients, as natural ingredients can have a significant environmental impact due to issues like overharvesting and habitat disruption.
The production and distribution of perfumes also contribute to carbon emissions, so choose brands that embrace sustainable practices and eco-friendly packaging. Minimalist packaging designs with recyclable materials can make a positive difference by reducing waste. When disposing of perfume bottles, check if the brand offers a recycling program or take the bottle to a local recycling facility that accepts glass and plastic cosmetic containers.
When applying perfume, avoid spraying it outdoors as this can contribute to air pollution. Instead, use it sparingly in well-ventilated areas to minimize the inhalation of potentially irritating chemicals. Less is more when it comes to application, and you can always reapply if needed. Be mindful of those around you, especially in enclosed spaces like planes or elevators, as strong scents can trigger allergies or sensitivities in others.
Finally, proper storage of your perfume can also reduce its environmental impact. Keep your perfume in its original box in a cool, dry, and dark place to preserve its scent and longevity. Avoid exposing it to heat and light, including steam from the shower, as this can alter the fragrance over time. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your favourite scents while being environmentally conscious.
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Frequently asked questions
The best places to apply perfume are the pulse points of the neck, wrists, inner elbows, and behind the knees. These areas are warmer spots on the body, helping to circulate the fragrance into the air and make it last longer. You can also apply perfume behind your ears, near your collarbone, or on your belly button.
Avoid rubbing your wrists together after applying perfume, as this can change the course of the scent and cause it to lose its crispness. Instead, lightly spritz both wrists and let the liquid sink in. If you want your perfume to last longer, apply it to your hair, scarf, or clothing.
It's easy to overdo it with perfume. One spritz of an eau de parfum is usually enough for all-day wear, while an eau de toilette will likely require two or three sprays and a second application later in the day. Just because you can't smell your perfume doesn't mean others can't, so be careful not to apply too much.
