How to Make Perfume Last Longer

How long a perfume lasts depends mainly on its concentration and its ingredients, but how you apply and store it also makes a difference.

Apply to moisturised skin

Fragrance tends to fade faster on dry skin. Applying an unscented moisturiser first gives it something to hold on to.

Choose pulse points, and don't rub

Spray onto the neck, inner wrists or behind the ears, where skin is warmer. Rubbing your wrists together does not destroy the scent, but it can make the top notes fade faster.

Spray clothing carefully

Fabric holds scent for longer than skin. Test on a hidden area first, as some perfumes can mark delicate or light-coloured fabric.

Pick stronger concentrations and longer-lasting notes

An eau de parfum usually lasts longer than an eau de toilette. Base notes such as amber, vanilla, woods and musk last longer than citrus.

• Mugler Alien Eau de Parfum - Amber Woody
• Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum - Amber Woody
• Dior Sauvage Eau de Parfum - Woody Aromatic

Store it away from heat and light

Keep bottles in their box or a cupboard, away from sunlight and the bathroom, where heat and humidity change. This helps the scent stay as intended.