Different products are available that can help you deliver just the right amount of fragrance for any occasion. Many are available in exactly your favorite scent, including designer scents. Some can be layered or carried easily in a bag for a slight touch up if needed. Because our noses adjust to scents that we smell all the time, it can be challenging to know how much fragrance is too much. It can be helpful to ask the advice of a trusted friend who is willing to be honest with you.
Perfume
Perfume is the most concentrated form of fragrance. It may contain up to 30 percent essential oils. A very little goes a long way. You will only need to dab a very small amount to your pulse points and it will last for up to 6 to 8 hours without any need to reapply. Although perfume is usually the most expensive form of fragrance, it can last a very long time so it is actually very cost-effective and is a nice luxury in which to indulge.
Eau de Parfum
Slightly less concentrated then perfume, eau de parfum usually contains about 8 to 15 percent oil and lasts about 5 to 7 hours.
Eau de Toilette
Eau de Toilette, or toilet water, is about 4 to 8 percent oil, but lasts nearly as long as perfume or eau de parfum, at about 4 to 6 hours.
Cologne
Cologne is much more dilute than perfume, with only about a 3 to 5 percent oil concentration. It is meant to be sprayed or splashed and will need to be reapplied throughout the day, usually about every 2 to 3 hours.
Body Lotions
Body lotions are meant to be reapplied frequently, but the intensity of the fragrance can vary based on a number of factors: the brand of lotion, the concentration of essential oils, your own personal body chemistry and even the temperature of the day. A great way to wear body lotion is to take a shower and wash with a shower gel in the matching scent, and then, while your skin is still wet, apply the body lotion. The layering effect will make it last longer, and then you can touch up with cologne if needed.
