Choose the correct type of scent: When shopping for a perfume or cologne, you often see the same scent in three concentrations: Eau de Cologne, Eau de Parfum, and Eau de Toilette. Of the three, Eau de Parfum, or EDP, has the highest percentage of aromatic essence, at 15% to 20%. This highly concentrated scent can last much longer, potentially up to six hours.
Spray scent directly to skin: Perfumes last longer when they can mix with your body's natural oils. Spraying your scent directly on your skin instead of just on your clothing will give your perfume true staying power.
Spritz after a shower: Perfume clings better to damp skin, so spray your fragrance on freshly washed and lightly dried skin.
Moisturize, then apply: Create a dewy base for your fragrance to cling to by moistening your skin with lotion or another skin-safe moisturizer before you apply your perfume.
Apply perfume to pulse points: Scent is activated by body heat, and your neck, wrists, and the insides of your elbows are areas where blood vessels are closer to the skin's surface. These warmer pulse points are keen areas to make your fragrance last longer.
Use body products with matching scents: Double up on your signature scent by using other products with the same smell, such as a body wash or moisturizer.
Opt for unscented: If your scent doesn't come with a matching body wash and lotion, opt for unscented products so as not to muddle your signature scent.
Spray and walk: While applying perfume directly to your skin will give your scent the best chance at longevity, that also doesn't mean you should skip spraying your clothing. Spray the fragrance in front of you and walk through the cloud for a second lighter layer.
Mist scent onto a hairbrush: Rake the freshly scented comb through your hair, and your scent will refresh every time you toss your hair.
Keep a travel-size bottle on hand. A mini perfume or cologne is great for touch-ups on the go.
Layer your scents. If you consider yourself something of a mixologist, consider mixing more than one scent to maximize the staying power. Remember to choose aromas that complement one another.
Store your perfume correctly. Keep your cherished bottle in a cool place, away from direct sunlight and any room with harsh temperature changes, such as the bathroom.
Don't shake your fragrance. Much like rubbing, shaking causes the scent to degrade faster. Simply spray your perfume and place it back on your vanity.
If you follow these tips and your fragrance still doesn't last, don’t give up. First, consider the scent family of the perfume you're using. Fresh, light scents have less staying power than rich, spicier fragrances. If all else fails, it might be time to swap your scent. As much as we may want to make an on-trend fragrance work, not every scent is made for everybody. Once you find your signature scent, it will be more than worth the wait.
