There’s nothing worse than splashing out on a snazzy new scent, only for it to fade within a few hours. Or – even worse – for you to reach for your bottle, only to discover that the juice inside has totally changed and smells more funky than fresh. But with these tips and tricks, you can not only make your perfume last longer both in and out of the bottle, but you’ll also smell sublime, all day long.
DON’T KEEP THEM IN YOUR BATHROOM
Decide where to store your perfumes carefully, as many factors can cause the scent to change purely based on whether they are sat in direct sunlight or how humid the area is. Bathrooms are one of the worst places because humidity and dampness can actually break down the molecules and weaken your perfume. So, switch them over to your bedroom vanity – out of direct sunlight, of course.
BUT DO PUT THEM IN THE FRIDGE
Putting your perfume in the fridge is a great way to keep your perfumes at a cool temperature, therefore maintaining the aroma within the scent. It also works to enhance any fresh notes that may be in your perfume such as lemon, mint and bergamot. If putting your fragrances in the fridge is a step too far for you, it’s essential you still opt for a cool, dry place such as a drawer or cupboard in a cooler room.
DAB ON SOME VASELINE
Yes, really – that humble tin of Vaseline is the secret to a longer-lasting scent. Petroleum jelly is the perfect base to keep your perfume in place. So, by dabbing onto pulse points (or anywhere you spritz your scent) before you apply your fragrance, your perfume will last longer.
LAYER LIKE A PRO
Layering your fragrance is a secret weapon in the quest for longevity. Start by using a matching scented body wash or lotion before applying your perfume. This allows the fragrance to adhere to the hydrated skin, creating a longer-lasting effect. Plus, moisturised skin will retain scent better than dry skin. Win-win.
TIME IT RIGHT
Knowing when to apply perfume is crucial. Spritzing your fragrance right after a hot shower is a great technique, as the warm steam opens your pores, allowing the scent to absorb deeply into your skin. Additionally, moisturise your pulse points beforehand, such as the wrists, neck, and behind the ears. These areas emit heat, intensifying the aroma and extending its longevity. Like we said – Vaseline.
SPRITZ ON DAMP SKIN
Speaking of timing, try to apply your perfume to your skin while it’s still damp. This helps lock it in and “infuse” into your skin, in turn helping your perfume last longer. Just be careful not to get dressed too quickly after or your clothes might rub some of your scent off. Give it a few minutes to dry, and you’re good to go.
DON’T FORGET YOUR CLOTHES
Make your perfume last longer by scenting your garments. Lightly spritz a scarf, shawl, or even the inside of your clothes with your chosen fragrance. As you move throughout the day, the fabric will release the scent in a delicate and subtle way, keeping you enveloped in a fragrant embrace, all day long.
OR YOUR HAIR
Spritzing your strands is one of the best ways to enhance the effects of your perfume as hair can actually retain scent for hours on end. If your signature scent doesn’t come in a hair perfume version, then spray your perfume onto your hairbrush and carefully brush it through your locks to help minimise any damage from the drying alcohol perfume contains. Cue the slow-motion hair-flick.
DON’T RUB IT IN
Contrary to what you might think, rubbing your wrists together – or indeed rubbing your scent in at all – doesn’t do much other than causing the notes to break down and fade faster. Instead, follow the tips above and your perfume will last longer, even throughout the hot summer months You’re welcome.
This story first appeared on GRAZIA International.