Heidi Norton
There is a lot more to wearing perfume than just a spritz and you're done. The correct placement of your perfume depends on the environment, your outfit, and the type of perfume. For example, if you're wearing a sleeveless blouse, target the pulse points of your neck, wrists, or inner elbows. If you're in a hot climate, avoid applying scent directly to your body and instead mist your hair, scarf, or sarong. The type of perfume you wear should also complement the occasion and your mood. For the day, opt for lighter, uplifting scents, and for the night, something heavier and opulent. The way you apply perfume is also important. For example, moisturize first so that the scent lasts longer, and avoid rubbing perfume into your skin as this can lead to evaporation and a distorted scent.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How much perfume to apply | A few spritzes are enough. Avoid overdoing it. |
| Where to apply perfume | Pulse points like wrists, neck, inside the elbow, behind the knees, and collarbone. |
| Skin type | Dry skin can cause the scent to fade more quickly. Moisturize prior to application. |
| Skin temperature | Warm skin absorbs perfume better. |
| Skin moisture | Avoid applying perfume to areas with cuts or broken skin. |
| Clothing | Avoid spraying perfume on clothes made of silk. |
| Environment | Avoid storing perfume in a hot and humid environment. |
| Occasion | Lighter, uplifting, and energizing scents are suitable for the day. Heavier scents are suitable for the night. |
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What You'll Learn
Moisturise first with an unscented lotion or oil
Moisturising your skin before applying perfume is a great way to make your fragrance last longer. According to Gerard Camme, president of Atelier Cologne, "If your skin is dry, the scent will fade more quickly. So if you want it to last longer, moisturize prior to application".
It's important to use an unscented moisturiser or lotion to prevent any olfactory interference. This way, you can enjoy the true scent of your perfume without it being distorted by another fragrance. A good time to moisturise is after a shower or bath when your skin is still warm and your pores are open, as this will help your skin absorb the perfume better.
If you want to use a body oil as well as moisturiser, it's best to apply the moisturiser first, then the oil, and finally the perfume. This will ensure that your perfume goes on last and isn't diluted by the other products.
Remember to give the moisturiser a few minutes to sink in before applying your perfume. This will prevent the fragrance from being rubbed off or distorted.
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Target pulse points like the neck, wrists, and elbows
When applying perfume, it's important to target the pulse points of the neck, wrists, and elbows (inner elbows or inside the elbow). These areas are where blood flows close to the skin's surface, and the heat from your body will help to diffuse the fragrance into the air and make it last longer.
When applying perfume to these areas, hold the bottle about six inches from your skin and spray onto the pulse. Avoid rubbing your wrists together or onto the skin, as this can cause the fragrance molecules to break down, and the friction can change the course of the scent. Instead, lightly spritz both wrists, let the liquid sink in, and do nothing else. You can also dab the perfume on, as this will help the fragrance spread more evenly and release its full potential.
Applying perfume after a shower or bath is ideal, as the skin is warm and clean pores are open, allowing for better absorption. If you want to moisturize, it's best to do so before applying perfume, as dry skin can cause the scent to evaporate quickly. You can also apply an unscented body lotion or Vaseline first, as this will make the perfume stick better to your skin.
While it's tempting to spray a lot of perfume, especially if it's a new scent, less is often more, and a few spritzes should be enough to leave a lasting impression. It's also important to note that just because you can't smell it on yourself anymore doesn't mean that others can't. Our noses often get used to the fragrances we wear, but the scent is still there.
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Avoid rubbing your wrists together
Award-winning perfumer Francis Kurkdjian advises against rubbing your wrists together after applying perfume. The friction from rubbing your wrists together can cause the perfume's molecules to break down, changing the course of the scent. This is especially true for floral fragrances, which can lose their crispness when heated.
Rubbing your wrists together can also cause the perfume to evaporate more quickly, leading to a duller scent. This is because the friction from rubbing can heat up your skin, producing natural enzymes that alter the fragrance. Instead of rubbing, you should lightly spritz both wrists and let the perfume sink in.
Another reason to avoid rubbing your wrists together is to prevent the perfume from mixing with your skin's natural oils. When you rub perfume into your skin, it can overly mingle with your natural oils, creating a distorted scent. This can be especially noticeable if you have oily skin, as the excess oil can break down the fragrance more quickly.
Finally, rubbing your wrists together can cause the scent to become concentrated in one area, rather than diffusing evenly across your skin. This can result in an uneven application and a stronger scent in one area, which may be unpleasant for those around you. To avoid this, it is best to lightly dab your wrists after applying perfume, rather than rubbing them together.
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Consider the environment and outfit
When it comes to wearing perfume, it's essential to consider both the environment and your outfit. Here are some detailed tips to help you make the right choices:
Environment
The type of environment you'll be in plays a crucial role in determining the kind of perfume you should wear. For instance, if you're going to be in an intensely hot climate, it's best to avoid applying perfume directly to your body. As French-Armenian perfumer Francis Kurkdjian advises, "As you sweat, the natural oils of the skin [can] destroy your perfume faster." Instead, he suggests lightly misting your hair, scarf, or sarong, as these accessories move with the air, aiding in the diffusion of the scent. Conversely, if you're going to be in a cold environment, you might want to opt for a warmer, cozier fragrance to create a snug ambiance.
Outfit
The style of your outfit is another important factor to consider when choosing a perfume. If you're wearing a sleeveless blouse or a low-cut dress, target the pulse points of your neck, wrists, or inner elbows, as these areas are exposed to the air. This ensures that your perfume isn't covered up by clothing, allowing it to diffuse effectively. Additionally, if your outfit involves long sleeves, you might want to spritz a bit of perfume on your sleeves, so when you move your arms, a subtle fragrance is released.
Fragrance Projection
When selecting a perfume, consider its projection and sillage, meaning how it fills the space around you. Some perfumes have a subtle aura, while others are more potent and fill the room. Choose a fragrance that aligns with your personal style and the environment you'll be in. For instance, if you're going to be in a crowded or enclosed space, opt for a lighter, fresher scent that won't overpower those around you. Conversely, if you're attending a formal event or an evening occasion, a more sophisticated and elegant fragrance with greater projection can add glamour to your ensemble.
Longevity
Consider the longevity of your perfume, especially if you're going to be out for an extended period or have a busy day ahead. Opt for fragrances with greater staying power, and if needed, carry a travel-sized atomizer for touch-ups. Additionally, be mindful of the environment; for instance, if you know you'll be transitioning from an air-conditioned space to an outdoor setting, choose a perfume that can withstand temperature changes without losing its freshness.
Remember, the key is to create a harmonious environment where your perfume enhances your outfit and complements the occasion.
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Store in a cool, dry, dark place
Storing perfume correctly is essential to preserving its scent and longevity. Perfumes are best stored in their original packaging, in a cool, dry, and dark environment. The bathroom is not ideal due to humidity and temperature changes, which can alter the perfume's shelf life. Instead, store your perfume in a cool, dry, and dark place such as a closet, drawer, or dresser. This will help maintain the integrity of the fragrance and prevent degradation.
It is also important to note that perfumes should be kept away from direct sunlight and changing temperatures. These factors can also impact the shelf life and quality of the perfume. Additionally, perfumes contain alcohol, which can potentially tarnish or discolour certain metals. Therefore, it is recommended to let the fragrance dry before putting on any jewellery.
Another factor to consider is the type of perfume you are storing. Eau de parfum has a stronger concentration, so it requires fewer sprays and may last longer. On the other hand, eau de toilette is lighter and may require more frequent applications throughout the day. Adjust your storage practices accordingly, taking into account how often you use your perfume and how long it is likely to last.
By storing your perfume in a cool, dry, and dark place, you can ensure that it maintains its original scent and lasts for a longer period. This simple step can make a significant difference in the quality and longevity of your fragrance.
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Frequently asked questions
Less is more when it comes to perfume. A few spritzes should be enough to leave a lasting impression. An eau de parfum only needs one spritz for all-day wear, while an eau de toilette will require two to three sprays.
Target areas exposed to the air, like your pulse points: the neck, wrists, inner elbows, collarbone, cleavage, and behind the knees. Applying perfume after putting on cream and/or oil will make it stick better to your skin and last longer.
Our sense of smell has a memory, so when we get used to a certain perfume, our brain will automatically 'mute' it. Changing perfumes will activate your sense of smell, and you will smell it better than if you wear the same perfume every day.
