
Should you buy a tester perfume? Difference with the original
12 april 2022Nothing leaves a better impression than the good smell of perfume you wear. But being a perfume fanatic, you must have come across the dilemma of tester fragrances and their ever-increasing popularity. You must have seen these testers of perfume liquid in the department stores when the salesperson gives you that long scented strip to try their new fragrances.
The tester perfumes have got everyone's attention as many people believe that they are more lasting, cost-effective, and give you a better understanding of whether you like the perfume. However, some also rejected the idea of buying something that is not packaged properly. So, whom should you trust? Should you buy a tester perfume, or are you better off with the perfumed bottles you always pick off the shelves?
Well, today's guide is going to address all your concerns related to buying perfume testers and bottles against original perfumes. We have compiled the information as a result of the first-hand experience of the experts. So, let’s start with the basics and see what they have to say:
What is Tester Perfume?
As the name suggests, perfume testers are made for testing purposes for the customers before they make a purchase. They contain the authentic product and original scent only. The producers make some bottles the same size as the retail products for the stores to keep as testers.
These testers help the customers find the best fragrance that compliments their style. Usually, the tester bottles are packed in plain white or brown boxes and often come without a cap. This makes their products cheaper as compared to their brand new perfume bottle. Despite all this, the scent they give is the same as the original product.
These products are not usually for sale, but many online shops sell them.
- The liquid tester bottles are 100% authentic and identical to the retail bottle of perfumes.
- Testers are clearly labeled as the customers do not mix them with the original product.
- They are brand new products.
- They come in 100ml of bottles or the same size as their retail bottles.
Difference Between regular Perfumes and Perfume Testers
The only difference between the two products under original perfume and tester fragrance include:
Retail Perfumes |
Perfume Testers |
They come with original packaging properly packed in boxes. |
The tester of the same perfume comes in plain packaging or even sometimes without a box also. |
More expensive as compared to testers. |
Less expensive as compared to the retail bottles. |
Comes with a cap and regular bottle. |
Often comes without a cap and bottles are also labeled with notes. |
Best for gifting loved ones. |
Best for trying out the new scents. |
Now the question arises which one should you go for? So, the answer is simple: if you wish to present the perfume as a gift to your loved ones, then buying a retail fragrance is the best idea. As you can become them properly and make them look presentable.
But when you wish to try any new fragrance, it’s better to try the small tester bottle first before making the big investment.
Additionally, sometimes we like the perfumes in the shop but don’t like them at home. So, testers save you from such after shopping regrets.
Expiry of perfume tester
The fragrance of perfume bottles depends on how a bottle is stored. As perfumes are made of mixing ingredients in ethanol/water, this makes them highly volatile.
Direct exposure to sunlight, humidity, and water can break down perfume molecules and ruin the effectiveness of the scent.
Avoiding all such things and storing perfumes in a dark, dry place is ideal for keeping them as good as new. You can store them in your cupboard or drawers for the best results.
The expiration date of testers is, therefore, the same as the retail products, and their scent strength lasts better when you store them properly.
Are tester bottles diluted?
Another myth revolves around tester bottles is that they are diluted or contain a higher concentration of perfume oil than their commercial products. But in reality, the tester bottle has the same quality and quantity of ingredients. This prevailing misconception is because the fragrance matures with usage. When you buy tester perfumes, half of the scent is subtly affected by the air particles.
Experts have listed some more facts that may affect the smell of testers, making them smell different:
- Constant storage of perfume bottles under the bright light of stores.
- Perfume may smell differently on paper strips and human skin.
- Weather and moisture in the air affects the perfume quality.
- Older formulas tend to be richer in composition.
Are tester bottles worth your Investment?
After our careful analysis of fragrance testers, we believe there is no harm in buying tester bottles even if they do not have a cap and proper packaging. The primary benefit of saving a few dollars on perfume brands and experiencing new scents is a privilege we all would like to enjoy. Online stores often offer these fragrance testers at an amazing price.
Pros of buying perfume testers
- Remarkably affordable rates of branded perfumes
- Similar authentic perfumes
- Can even find long discontinued perfume products
Cons of buying perfume testers
- Risk of fake tester perfumes.
- Serial numbers or bar code missing.
- Different brand policies.
Fragrance testers have been an excellent opportunity for fragrance enthusiasts to explore and try new perfumes without breaking their bank. So, if you are not much into the presentation and are brave enough to buy tester perfumes despite the minor chances of fakes then prepare yourself a new world of scents awaits you.
But if these perfumes by designer brands are to be gifted to someone then it’s advised not to buy perfume tester.
Some Tips and Tricks of buying Tester Bottle
- Buy fragrance tester bottles from someone whom you know personally and have the basic knowledge of good scents.
- Avoid buying highly discounted perfume liquids.
- Check the page reviews if buying online.
- When buying from Facebook groups check the authenticity of the person you are dealing with to avoid fake tester perfumes. Go through their profile.