6 tips for finding your perfect fragrance
EMMANUELLE MOEGLIN
A trained nose with more than 12 years’ experience in the industry, and the founder of Experimental Perfume Club.
LESS IS MORE
Q) What’s the correct way to apply perfume?
If you spritz on your wrists and rub them together, bear in mind the friction creates heat, which changes the scent.
Emmanuelle says… Apply at the pulse points, which include the neck, wrists, groin, ankles, feet and inner elbows. The skin there is thinnest and hottest, so it acts as a natural diffuser.
CHANGING TIMES
Q) When would you advise a change of scent?
Smells evoke memories, so you may think about changing perfume if it aligns with a sad memory or event.
Emmanuelle says… Change of seasons is a good time because fragrance is often worn as a mood enhancer. It can be fun to change it at important life milestones, such as on the day of your wedding.
SNIFF IT OUT
Q) How do you find your signature scent?
There’s a huge science and wealth of knowledge behind signature scents, but ultimately, it’s about what you like.
Emmanuelle says… Most people tend to gravitate around the same kind of smells without knowing they have a specific scent profile, such as green, citrus or woody fragrances.
HONEY, HONEY
Q) What’s the deal with vegan perfumes?
Animal-based ingredients, such as lanolin, glycerine and carmine, aren’t typically used in fragrances.
Emmanuelle says… The difference between vegan and non-vegan perfumes is almost non-existent. Only the use of natural honey extract, which is not commonly used, would have to be cut.
KEEP IT REAL
Q) And how natural are perfumes, generally?
Though most perfumes aren’t 100 per cent natural, some brands do offer them.
Emmanuelle says… Fragrances use a balanced blend of synthetic ingredients. Some varieties of both types can be harmful if used in high quantities, such as rose and jasmine extract, and can be expensive.
LAYER UP
Q What can you do to make a scent last longer?
You can prep your skin for perfume by having a shower before applying, so skin can hold on to the moisture.
Emmanuelle says… The longevity varies with the type of scent. You can try to layer your fragrance with a woody, deeper type that serves as a base or enhancer, but it does alter the smell.