Why doesn't perfume stick to me? Know the real reasons

Many of us associate the "quality" of a fragrance with its persistence: we think that high-quality perfumes last longer on our skin while the cheap ones evaporate very quickly (check the top rated long lasting perfumes for her). But that's not the case. Let's go through the real reasons why some fragrances last longer than others:

Nature of fragrance:

Fragrances, such as citrus blends, are made with volatile essential oils. Citrus is simply unfaithful and evaporates very quickly (check the best smelling citrus perfumes for women). Often, when we compose citrus blends, we insert in their heart some notes of lavender, petitgrain, some woody notes of vetiver or cedar, and then cover them with tons of musk. But even then, they won't last long. Due to their fleeting nature. If a question pops in your mind, why can't you smell your perfume? Then keep in mind: it has evaporated. All you can do is to re-apply your perfume once in a while.

At the other end of the spectrum, it has the same oriental scents that linger on your skin after you shower. They're made with very heavy molecules: vanilla (check the best selling vanilla perfumes), woody sandalwood, patchouli, and amber that like to stick around forever. And then you have all the other scents in between. Of course, the concentration of the fragrance can also be responsible for the long-lasting experience on your skin. If you want a scent that lasts a long time, you should go for the perfume version.

Skin and nutrition:

Does your skin feel hydrated most of the time? Why do I care, you ask? Well, that's because a fragrance will typically last much longer when your skin is hydrated than when it is dry. For this reason, many fragrance houses recommend using a scented body lotion and then applying the matching perfume; It lasts longer on your skin. Your diet also affects how long your cologne stays on your skin. Depending on what you eat, your skin sometimes releases a "scent of its own" that competes with and masks the one you're applying. Also, sometimes your scent will dissipate very quickly depending on your medications.

Natural vs. aromatic molecules:

It's not your fault because our beloved marketers believe that anything made using natural elements is better and more durable. The truth in perfumery is that a scent evaporates if it's only natural and contains ingredients. The only solution for sillage and lasting power is to use aromatic molecules: use those fabulous musks and amber notes to make you shine.

How can you make your cologne last longer?

The Way You Wear Your Fragrance: Believe it or not, there are certain things you can do to make your perfume last longer on your skin. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your favorite scent for longer: 

- Moisturize: Make sure your skin is moisturized before applying a scent, as oilier skin will retain the aroma longer. Use shower gel and lotion from the same line as your fragrance for the best results.

- Don't rub your wrists: Rubbing can cause the top notes to fade quickly.

- Apply some petroleum jelly: the moisture in the petroleum jelly will help the fragrance last longer.

- Apply to your pulse points: As fragrance reacts to heat, applying to your pulse points can help release scent throughout the day. Spritzing the nape of your neck, insides of your elbows, wrists, or the back of your knees should do the trick.

- Spray fragrance onto your hairbrush and brush through your hair: If you want some extra scent in your hair, you can spray it on your brush and run it through dry hair. Don't spritz directly onto your hair, as the alcohol in many perfumes can cause damage.

- Buy the right fragrance strength: Some perfumes will naturally last longer than others, both on the skin and bottle. Perfume and cologne are sold in different concentrations, meaning different ratios of fragrance oil to alcohol.

Finally, pay very close attention to the amount of fragrance you apply.

The Bottom Line

Many people re-apply their scent because they question themselves, "Why can't I smell my perfume?" They believe that their scent has faded away, but in reality, they smell powerful. Interestingly, this often happens when your scent fits your personality perfectly, and you can't feel it anymore. Ask your best friend or partner for advice, and they will tell you.