Perfumes are more than just a scent: they embody a part of our identity. Properly choosing a fragrance requires understanding personal olfactory preferences and paying close attention to its formulation, especially to avoid potential cutaneous reactions. Learn more about perfumes here.
What is referred to as the olfactory pyramid in the perfume industry?
The olfactory pyramid is the structure of perfume, composed of top notes (volatile), heart notes (persistent) and base notes (long-lasting).
What is the difference between an eau de toilette and an eau de parfum?
The eau de toilette has a lower perfume concentration than eau de parfum, making it lighter.
How should you apply your perfume?
It is generally advised to vaporize your fragrance onto your neck, wrists, and behind your ears.
Do perfumes have an expiration date?
Yes, most perfumes have a shelf life of 2 to 5 years when stored away from light and heat.
Is it safe to wear perfume in the sun?
This is generally not recommended, as certain fragrances contain photosensitizing compounds, such as bergamot essence or mandarin essential oil.
Why doesn’t a perfume smell the same on two different people?
The fragrance interacts with skin sebum and the microbiome. These factors vary between individuals and influence how olfactory notes develop and evolve.
Do perfumes necessarily contain alcohol?
The majority of perfumes contain alcohol, which functions as a solvent and enhances the diffusion of scent molecules. However, alcohol-free perfumes are also available, often formulated on a water or oil base.
Why does a perfume’s longevity vary throughout the day?
The volatility of odorant molecules and external conditions (temperature, perspiration, humidity) affect scent persistence. The perfume’s composition also plays an important role.
What is the difference between a natural fragrance and a synthetic fragrance?
A natural fragrance is composed of plant- or animal-derived ingredients, whereas a synthetic fragrance is derived from molecules recreated in the laboratory. Both are safe and of high quality, provided they are properly formulated.
How can we choose a fragrance that truly suits our body chemistry?
It is preferable to apply a fragrance to the skin and allow it to develop over several hours. The choice is guided by both individual olfactory preferences and by the skin’s chemistry in revealing the fragrance’s notes.