Perfume Expertise

Advise on buying your first perfume

ScentForMe Advise on buying your first perfume. If you are interested in buying your first perfume, you will want to understand some basic things about how fragrances work and how to get the most out of your first perfume purchase.

With a myriad of fragrances to choose from, each promising a unique olfactory experience, it’s essential to approach this decision with thoughtful consideration. If you have ever wondered about the differences between each perfume or why some last longer, the following information will be helpful before you buy your first perfume.

What are the differences between Eau de Parfum and Eau de Toilette, Pure Perfume and Eau de Cologne?

The difference between all these fragrances is simply the amount of oil in the perfume. Pure perfume has the highest concentration, followed by EDP or Eau de Parfum, EDT or Eau de Toilette, and EDC or Eau de Cologne. Eau de Toilette and cologne are often interchangeable, especially when we talk about male perfume.

What are Notes/Smell Notes?

Every fragrance consists of several scents, often called notes or smell notes. The top notes are light notes that only last for between 5 and 10 minutes. The middle notes become more apparent within 15 minutes following application and can last an hour or two. Finally, the bottom or base notes are heavier ingredients, which could last several hours.

How can a fragrance be made to last longer?

Fragrances are capable of lasting longer on certain people but less on others. For example, if you have oily skin, you will likely hold a scent longer than someone with dry skin. Therefore, you should moisturise your skin before applying your first perfume.

To achieve an even longer-lasting effect, you should layer your fragrance. You can accomplish this by using a shower gel, a moisturiser, an aftershave or a powder, and a perfume, using the same fragrance for each layer. You should also apply the fragrance low on your body so that it can be allowed to rise. Another idea is to spray perfume on your hair, which generally allows the aroma to last throughout the day.

How can a fragrance be kept from going bad?

It would be best if you kept all of your fragrance bottles in a cool and dry area. It would help if you kept all your fragrances out of direct sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the various ingredients in your perfumes to become unbalanced, destroying the balance of the scent. On the other hand, if kept in a cool and dry atmosphere, your fragrances can last a long time and bring you plenty of happiness.

How to choose the best perfume for yourself

How to choose the best perfume for yourself?

Choosing an Perfume or Fragrance for yourself can be rather tricky. When purchasing the best perfume/scent to enhance our smell, there are four different options we can choose from: Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne, Eau de Parfum and a Spray.

As most fragrances tend to be quite pricey, it is vital to know what each type of fragrance is and what attributes each one can possess.

  • Eau De Toilette: This fragrance has a 5% and 15% concentration, making it weaker than Eau de Parfum. These are perfect if you’re seeking a scent that isn’t overpowering but smells for at least 4 – 6 hours. Just remember that it won’t last as long on you as an Eau De Parfum, so if you want something that will remain with you all day, bring the fragrance with you so you can reapply.
  • Eau de Parfum: This is the most common perfume you will generally find, sometimes called an Eau de Perfume. An Eau de Parfum or Eau de Perfume typically has a concentration of 15% to 20%. This means that the fragrance from an Eau de Perfume or Eau de Parfum will be more potent when applied initially.
  • Eau de Cologne: You will find that many people confuse Eau de Cologne with Eau de Toilette because they share a pretty similar percentage when it comes to concentration, but you will also find that Eau de Cologne typically has a much weaker compound aromatically, which is around 3 % to 8 %. This fragrance most commonly has a light and citrus-like aroma. The Eau de Cologne is generally best if you are looking for a hint of scent rather than something stronger or longer lasting.
  • Spray: The weakest perfume are sprays, which have 1% and 3% perfume density. If you are looking for a portable scent, this one is for you. Perfume sprays have a shorter shelf life than other scents and are used for freshening up.
Choosing a signature perfume for yourself?

What must you look at when choosing a signature perfume for yourself?

First, consider whether you want a fragrance for everyday use or special occasions.

When buying perfume, you should always take the season into account. For example, avoid floral or musky aromas during the summer and go for “cool perfume scents” that are citrusy, light, and fruity.

Opt for something light and wearable at the perfume counter if you want a scent you can wear daily. But if you’re looking for a fragrance for a special occasion, try looking for something more upscale. These perfumes typically smell stronger and cling to your skin for longer.

Establish a budget for yourself.

Knowing your spending limit is crucial when purchasing your first perfume. This is because there are many distinct perfume varieties, and the price might vary significantly.

It is always a good idea to settle on your budget before purchasing a perfume to prevent yourself from going over budget.

Be mindful of your body’s chemistry.

Your body chemistry should always be the first thing you consider. It is the most crucial factor in choosing a perfume that will work for you. The wrong scent can cause skin irritation and accidents, which can be very uncomfortable.

When buying perfumes online, you should bear a few things in mind.

Verify the aroma family your perfume belongs to at all times. These families include woody, oriental, flowery, citrusy, and sub-scents. Each of them has unique qualities that set them apart. For example, citrus and aquatic elements like lime or pineapple are typical of a fresh smell. Likewise, Jasmine, sandalwood, and rose notes are frequently found in floral fragrances, whereas cedar wood, musk, and oak moss are found in woody scents.

Always check the product description when making an online purchase to see the perfume’s aroma notes. This particular smell will likely work for you if you enjoy these notes.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, when you purchase your first perfume, first understand what you are buying. Understand crucial differences like fragrance concentrations (Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, Eau de Cologne) and fragrance notes (top, middle, base notes).

If you understand all of this, start thinking about what person you are and your body chemistry. Ask yourself questions like, what goes well with me, what does not smell nice on me? Finding the best scent for yourself can sometimes be a hit-and-miss. But soon, you find that scent that works well with your body chemistry.


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About Raymond King

Meet Raymond King, South Africa's Foremost Fragrance Expert. Raymond King is a nose and director of ScentForMe Perfume shop. As one of South Africa's leading perfume and fragrance experts.

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