Katrina Rosales
Trying perfume samples is a great way to find your next favourite scent. You can try perfume samples at a department store or perfumery, or you can order them online. When testing perfumes, it is recommended that you only smell up to three different scents at a time, as your nose will get fatigued. You should also avoid touching your nose with the smelling strip, as this will contaminate other perfumes you try. It is also important to let the alcohol in the perfume evaporate before smelling it, as this can skew your perception.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to get perfume samples | Sign up for perfume sampling services, ask for samples at stores, or buy from eBay, Poshmark, Etsy, etc. |
| How to test perfume samples | Avoid spraying perfume on your wrist, allow alcohol to evaporate before smelling, test perfumes in an odour-free environment, and take breaks between testing different perfumes |
| How to evaluate perfumes | Pay attention to how the perfume smells on your skin or clothes over time, rather than just the top notes |
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What You'll Learn
Ask for samples in-store
Asking for perfume samples in-store can be a great way to try out different fragrances before committing to a purchase. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
Be Prepared with Your Own Vials
Some department stores may be happy to fill empty vials that you bring with you. This is a great option if you already have a collection of empty sample bottles or atomizers. However, it's important to note that not all stores will be comfortable with this practice, so it's always good to ask a sales associate about their policy.
Browse and Converse
When you enter a perfume store, take some time to browse the selection and engage with the sales associates. They are often knowledgeable about the different fragrances and can guide you towards scents that align with your preferences. Don't be afraid to mention that you're interested in fragrances, or that you've read or sampled similar offerings before. This shows your enthusiasm and willingness to explore.
Request Samples at the Register
When making a purchase at a department store, don't hesitate to request a few free perfume samples, regardless of the cost of your item. Many stores, like Sephora, Nordstrom, and Diptyque, are known for providing free fragrance samples, especially during scent events. You can also enquire about reward programs that may offer samples with your purchase.
Ask for Samples Directly
If you have a particular perfume in mind, don't be shy to ask for a sample directly. Most stores will happily provide you with a small amount to test on your skin. You can spritz it on your wrist or a tester strip, and then decide if you'd like to take a sample home for further testing.
Explore New Brands
New perfume companies are often eager to provide free samples as they actively try to build a customer base. Keep an eye out for emerging brands and don't be afraid to ask them for samples, as they are usually more than happy to oblige.
Remember, there is no need to feel awkward or embarrassed when asking for perfume samples in-store. Sales associates are accustomed to such requests, and it is a great way to ensure you find a fragrance that suits you perfectly.
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Sample on paper first
Sampling perfume on paper is a great way to test a large number of scents without nasal fatigue. Paper smelling strips, also known as blotters or mouillettes, are typically long or square white cards made of absorbent, porous material that allows fragrances to be swiftly absorbed.
When sampling perfume on paper, hold the strip away from you and spray the perfume once or twice on the other side, being careful not to soak the strip. Avoid touching the strip to your nose, as this can leave traces of perfume that can interfere with your perception of subsequent scents. Instead, wait a few seconds for the alcohol to evaporate, then bring the strip under your nose and inhale lightly in short breaths.
To avoid tainting the smell of the perfume, bend the fragrant side of the strip upward so that it doesn't touch any surfaces. Smell the strip every hour throughout the day to experience the complete fragrance cycle as it transforms from top notes to heart and base notes.
While sampling on paper is a great way to test a variety of perfumes, it's important to remember that certain perfumes may smell different on your skin due to your unique skin chemistry. To get a true sense of how a perfume will smell on you, it's best to test it directly on your skin after sampling it on paper.
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Avoid nasal fatigue
When trying perfume samples, it's important to be aware of nasal fatigue, which can set in after around three fragrances. This occurs when your nasal receptors become less sensitive to specific scents, leading to the misconception that certain fragrances have faded. To avoid nasal fatigue, there are several strategies you can employ:
Firstly, allow the alcohol in the perfume to evaporate before smelling it. The alcohol can saturate and block your nose quickly, leading to nasal fatigue. Wait until the spot where you applied the perfume looks dry, and then inhale.
Secondly, try not to smell too many fragrances in one sitting. Take breaks between samples to allow your olfactory senses to recalibrate. You can also try sniffing something neutral, like your elbow or unperfumed fabric, to clear your nose between samples. Avoid wearing your own fragrance or strong deodorant when sampling, as these can interfere with your ability to perceive new scents.
Additionally, be mindful of the environment in which you're sampling. Try to find a space free from other odours, as they can influence your perception of the perfume. If possible, take a small sample home with you to test the fragrance in a more neutral setting.
Lastly, when choosing perfumes to sample, opt for a variety of scents rather than similar fragrances. This will help prevent olfactory fatigue, as your nose won't "reset" if you always sample similar notes.
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Try subscription services
Subscription services are a great way to try out new perfumes without committing to a full-size bottle. They also offer the convenience of having samples delivered right to your doorstep. Here are some popular perfume subscription services to consider:
ScentBox
ScentBox offers a monthly designer perfume subscription box for $9.72. Each box contains a selection of designer perfumes, allowing you to try new scents at an affordable price.
Scentbird
Scentbird is a popular perfume subscription service that offers a vast library of over 700 scents, including brands like Ariana Grande, Dolce & Gabbana, and Parfums de Marly. For $16.95 per month, you'll receive an 8 mL bottle of fragrance, which is about 120 sprays. You can also upgrade your plan to receive up to three bottles for $37 per month.
Perfume.com
Perfume.com offers a budget-friendly subscription plan starting at $7.47 for the first month and $14.95 for each subsequent box. They carry scents from over 500 premium brands, including Cartier, Versace, and Burberry. You can choose your preferred scent or let their experts select one for you.
Olfactif
Olfactif sends you a curated collection of three niche fragrance samples each month, along with an $18 credit toward a full-size fragrance of your choice. The samples are large enough to last for a month, and the site is updated with interviews and backstories on the hard-to-find scents.
Purpl Lux
Purpl Lux, a subscription service by FragranceNet.com, delivers samples of luxury brands like Prada, Gucci, and Burberry, as well as fan favorites like Juicy Couture and Ariana Grande. They offer transparent pricing and a decent selection of fragrances to try.
These subscription services provide an excellent opportunity to explore new perfumes, discover your favorite scents, and indulge in the world of fragrances without breaking the bank.
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Buy samples online
Buying perfume samples online is an excellent way to try out new fragrances without committing to a full bottle. Many online retailers offer a wide range of samples, allowing you to explore different scents and find your unique fragrance. Here are some tips and suggestions for buying perfume samples online:
Online Retailers
Several websites specialize in selling perfume samples, such as Scent Split, Luckyscent, Fragrances Line, The Perfumed Court, Surrender to Chance, and DecantX. These websites offer a large selection of niche and indie fragrances, with prices typically ranging from $4 to $7 for a 1ml sample. Some websites, like Luckyscent, offer spray samples, while others provide small dabber vials. You can also explore websites like MicroPerfumes, which offer authentic designer perfume samples at various price points.
Subscription Services
Some websites offer sample subscription programs, allowing you to receive a curated selection of perfumes regularly. This can be a great way to discover new fragrances and explore different options without the hassle of choosing individual samples.
Discounts and Deals
Keep an eye out for discounts and deals when purchasing perfume samples online. Some websites offer discounts when purchasing multiple samples, such as Indigo Perfumery, where you can buy five samples for $20. Holiday coupon codes and promotional discounts are also common, helping you save money while exploring new fragrances.
Reviews and Recommendations
Utilize online reviews and recommendations from platforms like Reddit or fragrance blogs to guide your purchases. Many fragrance enthusiasts share their experiences and insights, providing valuable information about the best places to buy samples, the availability of new releases, and the discovery of vintage or discontinued scents.
Sample Size and Variety
Consider the size and variety of samples offered by different retailers. Some websites offer larger sample sizes, such as Surrender to Chance's 1oz spray samples, while others provide smaller dabber vials. If you're looking to test a wide range of fragrances, opt for websites with a large selection of niche and indie brands, ensuring you can explore diverse scents.
In conclusion, buying perfume samples online offers a cost-effective and enjoyable way to find your signature scent. With a plethora of options available, you can discover the unique fragrance that tells your story. Happy sampling!
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Frequently asked questions
You can get perfume samples from a variety of places, including department stores, perfume subscription services, and online retailers. Department stores like Nordstrom, Saks, and Sephora offer perfume samples in-store, while perfume subscription services like Olfactif and Commodity send you curated fragrance samples each month. Online retailers like eBay, Etsy, and direct from manufacturers are also options for acquiring perfume samples.
When testing perfume samples, it's important to avoid nasal fatigue, which can occur after smelling three fragrances. Allow the alcohol in the perfume to evaporate before smelling, as it can skew your perception. Avoid touching your nose with the smelling strip, as this can contaminate subsequent perfumes you try. Instead, spray the perfume onto a strip and hold it away from you, avoiding any contact with your hands, clothes, or surfaces.
To evaluate a perfume sample, it is recommended to take it home and test it over several days. This will allow you to experience the full range of notes in the fragrance, which may develop differently on your skin over time. Avoid wearing strong fragrances or deodorants when testing, as they can interfere with the sample. It is also recommended to avoid testing perfumes after eating garlic or heavily spiced foods, as this can affect your sense of smell.
