
How to apply fragrances the right way
‘A good perfume is like a tailor-made suit: it fits without being visible.’
This quote sums it up. Fragrances are far more than just fleeting scents. They are statements, memories, emotions - and they can make a decisive first impression. But even the highest quality fragrance loses its impact if it is applied incorrectly.
At L'Art Vévien, we know this: The correct handling of perfume is an art in itself. And it doesn't start with the bottle, but on the skin. In this article, we will show you step by step how to apply fragrances so that they last longer, unfold optimally - and give you the appearance you deserve.
PREPARING THE SKIN
Before we talk about the application, an often underestimated but crucial point: skin care. This is because dry skin literally swallows fragrances - moisturised skin, on the other hand, noticeably extends the perfume's shelf life.
Our recommendation: Use an odourless, moisturising body lotion before spraying on your perfume. Even better: choose a lotion from the same perfumery line as your fragrance. This way, the notes do not interfere with each other, but harmonise perfectly.
Another insider tip: apply the perfume directly after showering. The warmth opens the pores - your fragrance can anchor itself better and lasts longer.
THE RIGHT APPLICATION TECHNIQUE
A mistake we have all made: spraying too much, too close or even rubbing the perfume in. The technique is crucial for the effect!
Here's how to do it right:
- Keep about 20 to 30 centimetres away from the skin.
- Spray from bottom to top so that the fragrance mist is evenly distributed.
- Important: Do not rub. Simply allow the fragrance to air dry - this preserves the structure of the fragrances.
One or two sprays are sufficient. High-quality fragrances develop gradually. What you hardly notice yourself often has an intense effect on the other person - trust them. You can read more about fragrance longevity in our concentration deep dive here.
THE BEST PLACES TO APPLY
The choice of location makes all the difference: perfume develops differently depending on the skin temperature. So-called pulse points - places where the blood circulates close to the skin and generates natural warmth - are particularly suitable.
These are the most effective areas:
- Neck (sides)
- Behind the ears
- Inside of the wrists
- Bends of the elbows
- Temples or décolleté
- Belly button (with light clothing)
The warmth of these points intensifies your fragrance - and makes it come alive. For a more subtle but long-lasting result, colder areas of the body such as the shoulders or back are suitable.
WHAT TO AVOID
As tempting as it may be, some habits sabotage your fragrance. Here are the most important don'ts:
- Never rub perfume! This destroys the molecular composition - the fragrance loses its intensity and structure.
- Do not spray on clothing. Many perfumes contain oils that can leave stains. The fragrance also changes on fabrics.
- Perfume your hair? Be careful! Alcohol dries out the hair, especially on coloured textures. It is better to use special hair perfumes.
- No shaking allowed. Air bubbles in the bottle can negatively affect the quality and stability of your perfume.
- Avoid inexperienced layering. Combining several fragrances requires experience. Opt for special layering fragrances or stick to one line.
HOW TO STORE PERFUME
Like wine and fine oils, fragrances are also sensitive to environmental influences. Correct storage is essential to maximise shelf life.
You should bear this in mind:
- Do not store in the bathroom - heat and moisture destroy sensitive ingredients.
- A cool, dry and dark place is ideal - such as a cupboard or the original packaging.
- Even the best perfume does not last forever: after about two years it loses its strength, changes colour or smell. It's best to maintain a scent wardrobe with multiple scents for every occasion or every season.
CONCLUSION
The secret of an unforgettable fragrance lies not only in the contents of the bottle - it lies in the application. With the right technique, well-groomed skin and a conscious approach, you can get the best out of your fragrances. Discover our exclusive perfume line here at L'Art Vévien.