We Answer Some Of Your Most Common Fragrance Related Questions
Fragrance, scent, perfume, whatever you choose to call it, one thing’s for sure, it is layered and complex. Just like fine wine, fragrances are complicated and there’s a variety to choose from –– some scents are an acquired taste, while others are classic favourites. So when you’re spoilt for choice with a range of fragrance families and notes, a million queries are bound to pop up. Especially if you’re going to be breaking the bank for your lovely little wardrobe. We’ve narrowed down the most common fragrance questions and answered them for you –– just so that you have it clear the next time you add a new scent (or an old one) to your basket!
Jump to
How to choose a signature fragrance?
Finding ‘the one’ isn’t an easy task, however, it shouldn’t send you running in the opposite direction. When looking for a signature fragrance make sure you sample it before you make your decision. Other than spritzing it on a perfume blotter, wear it on your pulse points to see whether you enjoy wearing it or not. Make sure you wear it for a few hours so that you can understand the various notes present in the fragrance.
Figure out what you want your fragrance to say about your personality! Are you more of the discreet and subtle kind, or do you like all eyes on you when you enter a room? Your signature scent needs to tell your story, so choose wisely.
How to build a fragrance wardrobe?
Think of perfumes as an accessory and you can never have too many! Depending on your mood, occasion, and even the season, you can take a pick from your fragrance wardrobe. You can start small –– experiment across fragrance families to experience the notes available out there. Begin by selecting based on summer and winter scents, then you can move into daytime and nighttime fragrances. You can even sort out your fragrance wardrobe based on office perfect fits and party perfect scents. This way you will slowly, but steadily build a strong and unique wardrobe.
Does perfume go on bare skin or on clothes or both?
For the full effect of your fragrance, always apply it directly on your skin – the fragrance needs the warmth of your skin to develop and react to your body’s pH levels to create a smell that is unique to you. For a more long lasting effect, you can layer your perfume on top of moisturized skin.
We recommend you avoid spritzing fragrance on your clothes, as the fragrance oil from your perfume can stain your clothes.
Q: Why does my friend’s perfume smell different when I spray it on myself?
This is because everyone has a unique body chemistry that reacts to the fragrance differently when applied. While the notes remain the same, what you smell in the bottle isn’t exactly what the fragrance smells like on you or even your friend.
Q: I cannot smell my perfume after a certain time period. Does that mean it’s not strong enough?
A: Your sense of smell has the ability to ‘get used’ to fragrances thrown its way for a prolonged time. Your brain stops detecting it and moves on to the next smell. The fact that you don’t sense your fragrance after a while doesn’t mean that it isn’t strong enough –– others will be able to smell it perfectly well!
Q: What are niche fragrances and how are they different?
Niche fragrances are often made by brands that focus purely on making perfumes and nothing else. Designer fragrances, on the hand, come under a larger label that works across the board in segments like fashion and beauty too. Niche fragrances aren’t mass produced and they cater to a smaller audience. The raw ingredients present in the perfumes tend to be of higher quality, which is what makes them more expensive. Here’s our list of recommended niche fragrances that are worth the splurge.
Q: How does my skin type impact a fragrance?
Those with drier skin will find that perfume tends to evaporate faster, as compared with those who have oily skin—the natural oils on your skin allow for scents to last longer. This is why it is always recommended to first experience a fragrance on your skin, before making a purchase.
Q: How do I know if my fragrance has expired?
While it takes a lot for a fragrance to go ‘off’, the moment you notice the colour darkening or liquid thickening and getting cloudy, it’s time to toss out the bottle, as these are signs of oxidation or degradation. Additionally, check for any changes in the scent. If the fragrance smells different from its original notes, it might have expired. Another indication is the performance. If the perfume doesn’t last as long on your skin or fades quickly, it could be a sign of deterioration. Lastly, check the packaging for any visible signs of damage, such as leaking or a broken sprayer.
Q: How long does an open perfume bottle last?
On average, most perfume bottles can last for 1 to 3 years after opening. It depends on how you store it. Make sure to store your fragrances in a cool, dark environment, far far away from sunlight. Ensure you tightly replace the cap after every use. If your bottle has a stopper, avoid touching it to your skin to prevent cross-contamination.
Q: How to pick perfumes as a gift?
Perfumes are a personal choice, so it can be rather difficult to pick and choose something for someone else. Try to match the fragrance to that person’s personality or hobbies – we have guides for both men & women. Consider their favourite scents and the fragrance notes they gravitate towards – like citrus, woody, floral, et al. You can even invest in a gift set – so your loved ones can layer on their favourite fragrance.
TLDR: Do you often find yourself stumped when it comes to all things fragrance? We understand. The realm of perfumes aren’t all that easy to navigate through –– questions are bound to come up. Like how do you make your fragrance last for ages or how can you tell if your perfume has expired, these are burning fragrance questions everyone wants answered. Here are some of the most common fragrance related questions, answered!
