Finding the fragrance that’s uniquely you is a time-consuming process. It involves trying several brands and getting second or even third opinions. Once that ethereal and elusive scent is discovered, it can cost dearly; some high-end colognes and perfumes retail at $100 or more for a few ounces. If fragrance is something you plan on investing in, it’s essential to understand the basics of perfume notes, which are often structured in layers: top, middle (or heart) and base. Top notes are the first impressions and evaporate quickly. Heart notes form the body of the fragrance, making the most indelible impression. Base notes linger, providing depth and endurance. Knowing this helps you choose perfumes that have lasting power.
There are perennial favorites like Pal Zileri for men and Chanel No. 5 for women, but in recent years, Black-owned perfume brands from Rihanna, Jackie Aina and Beyoncé have been dominating internet popularity contests. While you might not be able to afford every perfume on your list with your current budget, use these tips to choose the ultimate scent for you and make it last as long as possible.
Choose Long-Lasting Perfume Types
The concentration of essential oils in your perfume greatly affects its longevity. Opt for Eau de Parfum over Eau de Toilette or Eau de Cologne. The former contains a higher concentration of fragrance oils, making them last longer on your skin. Certain scent families are naturally more enduring; woody and gourmand fragrances typically have heavier, longer-lasting base notes compared to light floral or citrus scents.
Correct Application Techniques
The way you apply perfume can significantly influence its staying power. Pulse points are areas where the blood vessels are closest to the skin, emitting more heat, which helps diffuse the fragrance. Focus on applying to the wrists, behind the ears, the base of the throat and the inside of the elbows. Contrary to popular belief, rubbing your wrists after applying perfume can break the fragrance molecules, altering the scent and diminishing its duration. Instead, let it dry naturally to maintain its integrity.
Your clothes and hair can hold fragrance longer than your skin. For a more enduring scent, lightly mist your clothing or hair as perfume clings well to fabrics and locks. Though it may feel glamorous to spray a scent into the air and walk through the mist, the initial spritz disperses widely and robs a fragrance’s endurance.
Prepare Your Skin for Better Fragrance Absorption
Before applying perfume, moisturize with an unscented or matching lotion to create a well-hydrated foundation that locks in the fragrance. Another trick is to apply a thin layer of Vaseline or a scent-free oil to your pulse points before spraying. These substances can help bind the perfume to your skin, making it last longer. The layer of oil may also protect your skin from ingredients that exacerbate skin irritation or sinus allergies. If petroleum products tend to clog your pores, it’s best to avoid possible irritants altogether.
Store Your Perfume Properly
How you store your perfume can affect its longevity, both in terms of shelf life and personal wear. Direct sunlight and heat can degrade the chemical structure, causing it to lose its potency. Keep your fragrances in a cool, dark place to preserve their quality. Exposure to air can also diminish your perfume’s efficacy. Make sure the bottle’s cap or stopper is secure after each use, minimizing exposure.
Refresh Throughout the Day
No matter how long-lasting a fragrance is, sometimes a top-up can help maintain that freshly applied aroma. Perfume manufacturers often release travel-sized versions of their scents; keep one in your bag for those touch-up moments on the go. Layering products from the same fragrance line, such as body washes or lotions, can also enhance longevity.