How To Apply Perfume To Make It Last Longer

Applying your favorite fragrance may seem pretty easy, and it’s probably not anything you think twice about. All it takes is a quick spritz here and there, and you're out the door. But what if we told you there’s a way to make that quick spritz last longer? 

Today, we’re sharing our expert tips on how to apply your fragrances to make them actually last. 

Here at Snif, we’re all about simplifying and demystifying anything and everything when it comes to fragrance — after all, your signature scent should be something you get to have fun with, not something you stress over. That’s why we don’t use words like eau de toilette to describe our scents, and we like to avoid industry buzzwords like “top notes” or “base notes.” It’s time to get rid of gendered and complicated fragrances and trust your own damn nose. 

You’ve done the work and found your perfect match (in the form of a fragrance, at least). Now, let’s dive into our tips and tricks on the best ways to make your scent last all day long.

Does It Matter Where You Spray Perfume? 

The placement of your fragrance, and the amount you spray, really is key to a long-lasting relationship with your signature scent. 

You probably don't want your fragrance to overwhelmingly waft into the room before you even walk in. Your grandma has been there, done that. 

But you also don’t want your fragrance to have faded before you walk in. 

So, what’s the secret? When you know where to place the fragrance, you won't have to use a lot of it — and you’ll run out of your go-to scents less often.

There's a reason you see people place fragrance on their wrists and neck in the movies. Spritzing your fragrance on your pulse points is the key. These are the areas of your body that are naturally warm, and that heat from your skin will intensify the scent and make it last longer. 

Your pulse points are areas like your neck, the backs of your ears, your earlobes, wrists, back of your knees, and your inner elbows. 

Gently dab your fragrance over these areas, and allow your body heat to bring it to life. You can almost think of your pulse points like a natural diffuser. 

Let’s get one thing clear, though. You really do want to dab, not rub. All those years spent rubbing your wrists together could actually have been working against you. Doing this basically mixes your fragrance with your natural oils, making it smell different than it did out of the bottle.

Should You Spray Your Scent on Your Hair? 

Your hair can also give you a helping hand when it comes to making your fragrance last longer. 

Sure, you can just go right ahead and spritz your fragrance directly into your hair, but if you ask us, there’s a better way. 

Our favorite method is spraying some of your favorite unisex fragrance onto your hairbrush, letting it dry down, and then brushing your hair. This helps disperse the scent evenly, and every time you fix your hair while out and about, it will send a subtle waft of fragrance out around you.

Should You Spray Your Scent on Your Clothes? 

You can also spray some of your favorite scent onto your outfit before heading out the door. 

Just keep the fabric in mind — if you’re going with a delicate silk dress or a dry clean only top, you’ll want to hold your fragrance further away to gently mist your clothes without soaking them. 

We recommend using this method alongside another, as you won’t get the full fragrance experience if you only apply it to your clothing. Fabric also tends to absorb some parts of the scent, and can even change the way your fragrance smells altogether. 

If you ask us, there are other, way better ways to make sure your favorite fragrance steals the spotlight. 

How Else Can You Make a Fragrance Last Longer?

Applying fragrance is easy, but applying fragrance effectively, so that it lasts, might not be so obvious. With these tips on preparing your skin for fragrance, knowing how to reapply, and embracing the art of layering, you’ll smell good 24/7. 

Apply Directly to Your Skin 

It goes without saying that your skin is the best surface to apply your fragrance, as the warmth of your skin allows the scent to come to life and last longer. 

Try applying a few spritzes all over your body right when you get out of a warm shower. A fruity and floral fragrance like Snif's ex on the beach can help you feel fresh hours after your shower, brightening your day (and the days of those around you, if you do it right). 

Don’t Rub It In 

Your first instinct may be to rub your wrists together, but remember that rule we mentioned earlier? Dab, don’t rub. Friction is not your fragrance’s friend. 

You want to treat your fragrance delicately. When you rub it into your skin, it can evaporate faster, and you might end up drying out the scent instead of letting it naturally settle into your skin. Instead, dab the fragrance onto your pulse points and let it work its magic. 

Start With an Odorless Body Lotion

We also recommend that you avoid spraying your fragrance onto dry skin. The scent will evaporate quickly, and you won't get the most bang for your buck. Instead, treat yourself to a little skincare first by applying an unscented lotion all over your body.

The moisturizer helps give the fragrance something to stick to, making it last much longer. You can even try using a light layer of petroleum jelly on areas where you have extra dry skin, or areas where you want your perfume to really last. 

Again, the absolute best time to do this is after a shower. Apply your lotion, do a little spritz and walk through, and then add an extra spritz to your pulse points. 

Try Layering Multiple Scents

Layering scents could take your fragrance routine to the next level, but it’s important to know what you’re doing.

You don't want to use two scents that don't complement each other, or the smell can be too overpowering or off. Think of how you used to pair your cucumber deodorant with a sweet and sugary-smelling body spray when you were 12 — the scents definitely didn’t match, but at least you liked them both.

Now that we’ve left middle school, it’s time to graduate to mismatched fragrances. But how do you know what fragrances go together? 

You don't want to layer two big scents with a lot of personality. This could lead to an overwhelming, overpowering, and overdone result.

Instead, you’ll want at least one of the scents to be simple, like jasmine, musk, or patchouli. The second scent you layer can be more complex, like a fragrance that combines a few different scents. 

If you still feel unsure, try layering two fragrances with one scent in common. For example, you could layer Snif's Way with Woods with Show Pony. They both contain sandalwood and vetiver, and together, you’ll get a warm, earthy scent that's slightly sweet. 

You can also wear two scents at once without necessarily layering them. For example, you can put one of the fragrances on your neck, and the other on your wrists. It’s all about what works best for you — scent layering is about creating a signature scent that fits your style, and whatever you do to get there is cool with us. 

Know When To Reapply 

Even when using a long-lasting fragrance, you’ll still end up needing to reapply at some point. Even the best fragrance won’t last you from your 9 a.m. commute to your 10 p.m. drink with friends. When you start to notice your scent is fading, spritz a little bit more onto your pulse points, and you’re good to go. 

Depending on your lifestyle, you may need to reapply once or twice a day. Once you stop smelling your fragrance when you move around, it’s likely time to do a refresh. 

Fragrance, Uncomplicated 

Don't fret over your fragrance too much, just remember your skin is the best canvas. 

If you're still wearing the same fast-fading scent from your early teenage years, it may be time to switch it up. Try one of Snif's premium scents, and don't be afraid to have a little fun.

Sources

Pulse Points on the Body and How to Grade Pulses | Simple Nursing

How to Take Care of Your Skin | Healthline

Dry skin - Symptoms and causes | Mayo Clinic