Lance Carson
There are many things to consider when it comes to perfume, from how to store it to how to make it last longer on your skin. However, there are some common mistakes that people make when wearing and looking after perfume. For example, did you know that perfume is sensitive to environmental changes? This means that it shouldn't be stored in a steamy bathroom or anywhere that it could be exposed to ultraviolet rays. Additionally, if you have dry skin, you may find that perfume doesn't last as long on your skin, but this can be helped by using a body oil, rich body balm, or moisturising lotion before applying your fragrance.
What not to do with perfume
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Storing perfume | Avoid exposing perfume to extreme temperature changes, steam, and ultraviolet rays. |
| Using perfume | Avoid spraying perfume too close to the skin, on the hair, or on fabrics that may be stained. Do not ingest perfume. |
| Combining perfumes | Avoid mixing perfumes from different olfactive families. |
| Using unwanted perfume | Avoid pouring unwanted perfume down the drain. |
| Repurposing unwanted perfume | Do not spray perfume near a cat's litter tray. |
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What You'll Learn
- Don't store perfume in the bathroom or anywhere it will be exposed to temperature changes
- Don't expose perfume to direct sunlight, as this can alter its colour
- Don't use too much perfume—a few spritzes are enough
- Don't spray perfume directly onto your hair or clothes
- Don't keep half-used bottles of perfume—decant into smaller vials if necessary
Don't store perfume in the bathroom or anywhere it will be exposed to temperature changes
When it comes to perfume storage, it is important to remember that perfume is extremely sensitive to environmental changes. Changes in temperature can cause unexpected chemical reactions within the natural ingredients, which will alter the scent and colour of the perfume. Therefore, it is best to avoid storing perfume in places where it will be exposed to temperature changes, such as the bathroom, near a window, or in direct sunlight.
The bathroom is a particularly unsuitable place to store perfume due to the humidity and temperature fluctuations that occur during hot showers or baths. These changes in temperature and humidity can cause the perfume's natural ingredients to break down, altering the scent and reducing its freshness. For example, leaving a citrus-scented perfume in a steamy bathroom can make the raw materials smell a little off, and can even turn amber-coloured perfumes green.
Instead, it is recommended to store perfume at room temperature, in a cool, dry place, and preferably in its original box. The original box is designed to protect the perfume from light and temperature fluctuations, helping to maintain its quality. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even store your perfume in the refrigerator, which will help to extend its shelf life.
Additionally, it is worth noting that perfume should be stored in smaller vessels, preferably between 2.4 and 1.2 milliliters, as these sizes will ensure the perfume remains fresh for up to three months. Larger bottles, especially if half-used, expose more of the perfume to oxygen, which can break down the scent's molecules and alter its composition over time.
By avoiding temperature changes and storing perfume in optimal conditions, you can ensure that your perfume remains fresh and maintains its intended scent and colour.
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Don't expose perfume to direct sunlight, as this can alter its colour
Storing perfume is not as simple as placing it on a shelf or dresser. Perfume is sensitive to environmental changes, and direct sunlight can alter its colour.
Ultraviolet rays can cause chemical reactions within the natural ingredients, ageing the perfume and turning amber tones green. Therefore, it is best to avoid storing perfume in direct sunlight or near heat. The ideal storage temperature is room temperature or 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
To extend the shelf life of your perfume, store it in its original box. This will protect it from sunlight and maintain a consistent temperature. If you want to go a step further, you can store your perfume in the refrigerator, just like a fine wine.
Additionally, it is best to use smaller bottles, as they can remain fresh for up to three months. If you have a larger bottle, consider decanting it into smaller vials. This will reduce the surface area exposed to oxygen, which can break down the scent's molecules and alter its composition over time.
By taking these precautions, you can ensure that your perfume stays fresh and maintains its intended colour.
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Don't use too much perfume—a few spritzes are enough
When it comes to perfume, less is more. A few spritzes are enough to leave a pleasant trail of fragrance. Overdoing it can be overpowering and unpleasant for both you and those around you. It can also lead to a phenomenon known as "fragrance fatigue", where your nose becomes so accustomed to the scent that you no longer perceive it as strongly, or even at all.
The pulse points on your body, such as your wrists, neck, and cleavage, emit heat that helps fragrance notes develop quicker. Spraying perfume on these areas means a little goes a long way. Jacques Huclier, a senior perfumer at Givaudan, recommends holding the perfume bottle about five inches away from the skin when spraying. This prevents an unpleasant flow of liquid.
It's also important to consider the environment in which you're wearing perfume. Confined spaces, such as public transport or offices, can intensify the scent and make it overwhelming for others. Strong scents can even trigger allergies or sensitivities in some people, causing sinus irritation, redness, or itching.
Additionally, be mindful of the temperature when applying perfume. Heat warms up the fragrance, causing it to lose its crispness and develop more quickly. This is especially important if you're wearing perfume in a hot climate or during the summer months.
If you find yourself with too much perfume, there are creative ways to use it without applying it directly to your skin. You can spritz it on your bedsheets, pillows, or clothing to envelop yourself in a subtle scent. Alternatively, you can use it as a room spray or add it to a diffuser to fragrance your living space.
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Don't spray perfume directly onto your hair or clothes
When it comes to perfume application, it's important to remember that less is more. Directly spraying perfume onto your hair or clothes can be a waste of your favourite scent and may even damage your hair and fabric.
Firstly, perfume is designed to be applied to the skin, where it mixes with your body chemistry to create a unique scent. By spraying it directly onto your hair or clothes, you're missing out on this key step, which may result in a less-than-desirable fragrance.
Secondly, perfume is highly concentrated and contains chemicals that can be harsh on your hair and fabrics. Directly spraying perfume onto these surfaces can result in discolouration, staining, or an oily residue. This is especially true for light-coloured hair and fabrics, which are more prone to staining.
Instead of spraying perfume directly onto your hair, try applying it to your hairbrush before running it through your hair. This will result in a more subtle and even distribution of the scent, without the risk of damaging your hair.
Similarly, instead of spraying perfume directly onto your clothes, try spraying it into the air and walking through the mist. This will give your clothes a light fragrance without the risk of staining or discolouration. Alternatively, you can spray perfume onto a handkerchief or tissue and place it in your pocket or bag, allowing the scent to subtly diffuse throughout the day.
Remember, when it comes to perfume, a little goes a long way. By avoiding direct application to hair and clothes, you can make the most of your favourite scent while also preserving the integrity of your belongings.
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Don't keep half-used bottles of perfume—decant into smaller vials if necessary
Keeping half-used perfume bottles is not advisable, as oxygen will slowly break down the scent's molecules, altering its composition. This is why perfume experts like Francis Kurkdjian recommends smaller vessels that can remain fresh for up to three months.
If you have a generously-sized bottle of perfume, you can decant the liquid into smaller vials. This way, you can preserve the fragrance and ensure it stays fresh for longer. Additionally, storing your perfume in a cool, dark place, like the refrigerator, can help maintain its freshness.
If you're hesitant to part ways with your half-used bottles, there are creative ways to use them up:
- Use it as a room spray or air freshener.
- Spray it on your linens, towels, or clothes to give them a pleasant scent.
- Add a few drops to your bath or shower for a scented experience.
- Offer it to friends or family who may enjoy the fragrance.
- Donate it to a charity shop or women's shelter, where it can find a new home.
Remember, perfume is sensitive to environmental changes, so storing it in smaller containers and maintaining optimal conditions will help preserve its integrity and ensure you get the most out of your favourite fragrances.
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Frequently asked questions
Avoid exposing your perfume to extreme temperature changes, as this can cause unexpected chemical reactions that age the perfume. Store your perfume at room temperature, and consider keeping it in its box.
Avoid spraying perfume too close to the skin, as this can cause an unpleasant flow of liquid. Avoid spraying perfume on your hair, as it can be unkind to your tresses. Instead, spritz your pulse points, such as your wrists, neck, and behind your knees.
Avoid throwing away unwanted perfume. You can repurpose it as a room spray, donate it to a shelter or charity shop, swap it with someone else, or sell it.
Avoid further exposure to the perfume. Wash your skin with gentle, dye-free soap and lukewarm water. Soothe the area with calamine lotion, aloe vera, or coconut oil.
