As you know, I’m a bit of a beauty junkie. Especially when it comes to perfume. I’ve purchased my fair share of fragrances and have picked up some great tips along the way that I am going to share with you today… Below, I have outlined the basics of what you need to know when it comes to perfume and you:

How do I pick the right scent for me?
Just because something smells fabulous on your BFF doesn’t mean it will smell as delicious on you. That’s the cold hard truth, ladies. The manner in which fragrance oils interact with our natural scent and body oils varies. We each have our own unique body chemistry and pH balance, which affect this interaction. When you go to pick a perfume, test it on your skin and allow it to soak in for 10 minutes or so before making a final decision. It’s also a good idea to only test two at a time, or else your senses will be on overload. If you have no idea what perfume you want to try, tell the salesperson two scents you love, such as vanilla or jasmine, so they can help narrow your choices down. Finally, bring a friend to give you a second opinion.

How much is too much?
When I was in 5th grade, many of the boys in my class started wearing cologne. The boys would literally drench themselves in musk. Ms. Barker’s room smelled pungent to say the least. Needless to say, I remember Ms. Barker finally telling the class, “Less is more.” To this day, I couldn’t agree more.

Where shall I spray?
It’s really a matter of personal choice. However, pros would argue that the best place to apply perfume is on your pulse points. Pulse points are areas on our bodies where blood vessels are closer to the skin’s surface. When blood vessels are near the skin’s surface, they give off more heat. As heat emits from these points, fragrance is pumped outward as well. Pulse points include the inner wrist, the inside of the elbow, behind the ears and knees along with the base of the throat. I usually spritz a bit on each wrist. Then, I spray it twice about a foot in front of my body and immediately walk through it.

How do I make it last?
This is a matter of body chemistry. Generally speaking, perfume lasts anywhere from 4 to 8 hours. However this time limit differs based on your skin type. Fragrances are basically oils that are absorbed by our skin. People with lighter complexions typically have dryer skin, which causes a fragrance to soak in faster. On the other hand, scents last longer on those with darker skin tones and oilier skin. If you’re looking for a longer lasting fragrance, pick something with a greater concentration so the oils will evaporate slower. Parfum has the most oil, but it’s also the most expensive. Then there is eau de parfum and eau de toilette, both of which are great for everyday wear. The weakest is eau de cologne. Also, it’s important to know that citrus-based fragrances fade faster than musky scents. So when it comes to making your perfume last, I suggest you shop wisely and pick something with an oil concentration that fits your skin’s needs. Another factor that affects the intensity of your perfume is diet. If you consume a lot of fats and spicy or hot foods, fragrances will register more intensely. Interesting, right?

Where do you spray your perfume?

XO Lauren

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Photo: nestprettythings
Sources: Annie Fritz for About.com, YGo Makeup, Wikipedia, Artelier Perfumes

To say I love perfume would be an understatement. For me, it’s a must. A fabulous fragrance is like the icing on a cake. It’s the final touch. Perfume exudes luxury, but for a fraction of the cost. After one spritz of my favorite eau de toilette (as the French would say) I’m instantly elevated—feeling feminine and downright divine.

I love to change up my perfume selections based on the season. In cooler months, I prefer sophisticated scents that are more saturated. Whether it’s a hint of musk, a dash of lily, or a trace of jasmine, I like to think my fall and winter perfumes are a tad more elegant. For fall, I love Miss Dior Cherie. And for winter, Issey Miyake is my go-to. Both scents have a lot more body compared to all of the lighter fragrances I usually wear during the spring and summer season.

What’s your fall/winter scent?

XO Lauren

P.S. Don’t forget to share your tips on seasonal perfume in the Forum.

Photo: Dior