The Art of Applying Perfume the Right Way

Applying perfume seems simple, but getting it to last all day takes a little more know-how. It's not just about where you spray it but also how you do it. Whether you're new to perfume or a seasoned fragrance lover, these tips will help you get the most out of your favourite scents.

Choose the Right Spots

The key to making perfume last is applying it to pulse points—areas where your skin naturally gives off heat. This heat helps the scent diffuse over time. Popular pulse points for perfume include:

• Wrists: Perfect for a subtle waft of scent.
• Behind the ears: A classic spot, especially if you like your fragrance to be closer to you.
• Neck: Great for a fragrance that others will notice.
• Inside elbows and behind knees: Good spots for a more diffused, all-day scent.

The warmth from these areas allows the fragrance to last longer, so you'll be smelling lovely all day.

Spray After Showering

Moist skin holds fragrance better, so applying perfume after a shower is ideal. When your skin is slightly damp, it locks in the scent, helping it linger longer. Just make sure to towel off a bit before spraying so the scent sticks.

Don't Rub Dab Instead

It's tempting to rub your wrists together after spritzing, but this can actually break down the fragrance molecules, causing the scent to fade faster. Instead, let the perfume air dry, or if you need to touch it, gently dab your wrists together.

Layer with Unscented Lotion

Moisturized skin holds fragrance better. Before applying your perfume, try using an unscented lotion on your pulse points. The extra moisture will help your perfume last longer. If your lotion is unscented, it won't clash with your perfume's scent profile.

Use Hair as a Subtle Scent Carrier

Hair naturally holds scent well, making it a perfect place for a gentle spritz. Instead of spraying directly onto your hair (which can be drying due to alcohol content), spray your perfume into the air and walk through the mist. This gives your hair a light scent without overwhelming it.

Know the Right Distance

When applying perfume, hold the bottle 5–7 inches away from your skin. This distance allows the fragrance to disperse evenly without concentrating too much in one spot. It also ensures a lighter, natural smell instead of an overpowering hit.

Try Layering Your Fragrance

Layering fragrances can create a signature scent that's truly unique to you. Start with a base scent, such as a warm, woody note, and add a lighter scent, like floral or citrus, over it. Many fragrance brands have complementary products that work well together, so try mixing body lotions, creams, and perfumes for a longer-lasting, customized aroma.

Storing Perfume Matters

Believe it or not, where you store your perfume affects how it smells and lasts. Perfume is best stored in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep it in a drawer or a closet shelf instead of a bathroom counter. Exposure to heat and light can break down the scent, making it fade faster.

Less is More

With perfume, a little goes a long way. Applying too much can make the scent overwhelming, and even the best perfume can become too intense when overdone. Start with a small amount and only add more if needed. Perfume should be a subtle part of your personal style, not something that overpowers a room.

When you take a few extra steps, your fragrance becomes more than just a scent; it's a part of who you are and how you're remembered. Follow these tips, and you'll make the most of every spritz, enjoying a longer-lasting scent that stays with you throughout the day.