Perfume is one of life’s simplest but most satisfying pleasures. A splash on the wrists, neck or crook of an arm can transform the way people perceive you and can even influence your mood. It is also an instant reminder of pleasant memories or a special occasion. In fact, according to a recent study, scents have the power to trigger certain emotions and memories in the brain (via WWD).
It can be tempting to chase after thousands of perfumes, but finding your signature fragrance is key. A perfume that suits you is a combination of several factors, including body temperature, the chemistry of your skin, and the composition of the perfume itself. Perfumes are typically divided into families or themes based on their scent profile, and it is important to test out many different perfumes before finding your perfect match.
If you are ready to purchase a new bottle of perfume, there are some tips that can help prolong its lifespan. First, avoid rubbing the bottle together, which can cause it to oxidize and change the scent. Then, store it in a cool place. The fridge is a good option because the cold can slow down the evaporation of the volatile molecules in the perfume and keep it fresh for longer.
Besides keeping your perfume in a cool environment, it is also important to apply it properly. Spray the perfume onto the skin and then rub it in, rather than squirting it directly on clothing. This will help the perfume last longer and diffuse evenly, allowing you to get more bang for your buck.
It is also a good idea to spray the perfume onto your pulse points, such as the neck, wrists and crook of your elbow. These are the areas that are most likely to be contacted by other people and they can amplify the scent. Lastly, be sure to use a small amount of the perfume. A little goes a long way, and too much can be overpowering for others.
Some perfumes are also infused with animal secretions that serve as fixatives, which prevent the more volatile components of the perfume from evaporating too quickly. Examples of these include ambergris from the sperm whale, castor oil from beavers and musk from the civet cat or musk deer.
It is also important to remember that your favorite fragrance notes may change depending on the season or time of day, as well as your mood. So, be open to experimenting with different perfumes and don’t let prejudiced ideas of certain notes stop you from trying something new. After all, a perfume can have anywhere from 10-200 ingredients, so it’s important to be flexible.