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Buyers Guide

 

Buyers Guide to Understanding Fragrances

This guide will give you a basis insight which will assist in selecting the right strength and type of fragrance suited to you.  We have also included some useful tips on storage and how to make your fragrance last longer.

  

The majority of perfumes are created by combining three layers of scents called notes (Top, Middle and Base) which are usually a combination of pure natural essential oils.

 

The Top notes are the first ones you smell and are volatile and strong but these shortly fade and give way to the Middle notes which make the heart of the fragrance.  Usually around 50% of the fragrance is formulated with Base notes - this gives the fragrance its depth, strength and lasting power.

The combination of notes can be divided into several scent categories, this identifies the aroma of the perfume – For example; Aromatic, Fresh, Floral, Spicy, Citrus, Fruity, Marine and Woody.

While perfume is used as a very general term, to be more accurate fragrances are be broken down into strength types the higher the concentrate the longer the fragrance will last.

From strongest to weakest;

Parfum – (P) The most concentrated and purest form of fragrance. It is composed of up to 40% of fragrance oils and therefore is the most expensive – It is compiled to provide exceptionally long lasting fragrance. Traditionally real parfum was dabbed on rather than sprayed.

Eau De Parfum – (EDP) The most popular form of ‘Parfum’ giving an lasting scent for a reasonable cost – It h
as the same characteristics as Parfum and similar staying power.

 

Eau De Toilette – (EDT) The most affordable and most popular of perfumes, not over powering yet its depth and strength for most could be described as “the perfect choice”.

 

Aftershave  - (A) Aftershave has a lower content of essential oils than EDT, its lower composition has been purposely made so that it can be used on the face.


Eau de cologne – (EDC)  A light refreshing fragranced mist. Originally d
eveloped for men although in this modern day we have also seen Eau de Cologne for women.

Eau Fraiche – (EF) Sometimes called 'Perfumed Mist', often alcohol free it proves popular in the summer months or for those whom prefer a lighter scented fragrance. Originally designed for women although in this modern day we have also seen Eau Fraiche for men. 

Scented Creams, Lotions and Balm - These contain up to 8% essential oils, but because of their thick base the scent tends to linger longer on the body.

  
Storage
Care should be taken when storing your fragrance bottles. Fragrances should be kept cool and dry and out of direct sunlight. The shelf life of a fragrance is on average 3-5 years.
 
Facts and Tips
To make your scent last longer try;
 
Running some perfume through your hair on your brush.
Spray the fragrance in mid air and walk through it to give that all over envelopment.
Applying the fragrance lower on your body so it rises.
Fact! It is essential not to rub the fragrance when first applied as it will crush the delicate molecules and could change the character of the fragrance, let it dry naturally instead.
Fact! It is recommended that, like the composition of perfume, the fragrance should be worn in layers commencing with the shower, followed by a body lotion etc and finally completed with a layer of perfume – this will give the scent a longer lasting effect and make you feel a million dollars!  Gift Set are great for layering your fragrance and are good value for money too!
 
Fact! Our skin’s chemistry changes the aroma of perfumes making every scent individual to the wearer.
Fact! You may not think it but - The same scent in different strengths can vary in smell, this is because higher or lower concentrates of essential oils change the composition of the fragrance.
 
Summary
"Choosing the type and strength of a scent is much down to personal preference, some good factors to consider when choosing a fragrance are; What time of day or evening will the fragrance be worn? What’s the occasion? And the time of year?
Fragrances can change your mood; they can uplift your spirits and make you feel and smell great, this is down to the essential oils that make up the fragrance. Not only do they add essence to your individual personality they give ambience to your surrounding environment."
 
Should you need any further assistance in choosing the right fragrance for you, please do not hesitate to contact us.
The Fragrance-Box Team
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