Myths about perfumes debunked

Do you spend a fortune on branded perfumes, convinced of their exceptional quality? Or do you prefer testers, believing their notes last longer than the full product? Let’s debunk the most common myths about perfumes and their use.

Myth 1: The longer the perfume lasts, the better its quality

First and foremost, the longevity of a perfume doesn’t always indicate its quality. Creating a long-lasting alternative using inexpensive synthetic fixatives is no challenge. The true art lies in crafting an extraordinary scent composition using top-quality ingredients that enchant for hours. Longevity largely depends on the types of notes used in the perfume. Don’t expect light citrus or herbal scents to last as long as oriental perfumes with vanilla, patchouli, or sandalwood, which evaporate more slowly due to larger molecules. The ingredients play a significant role. Sometimes, an eau de parfum with a lower concentration of fragrance oils may last longer than a perfume with a higher concentration, depending on the composition of the notes.

Myth 2: You stop smelling your perfume because it fades

Another myth about perfume longevity is the perception that we stop smelling it on ourselves after some time. Many people assume that after applying perfume, it will constantly release its fragrance for several hours. That’s not how it works! Our sense of smell adapts and stops perceiving a scent we’re exposed to. People around us are better judges of whether the scent is still noticeable. Additionally, when you apply perfume to clothing or hair, its longevity becomes evident when, for example, you take a sweater out of the closet weeks later and can still smell the perfume. Some fragrances even linger on clothing after washing.

Myth 3: Storing perfumes in the bathroom is fine

When discussing longevity, we must address common mistakes in perfume storage and application. Contrary to popular belief, perfumes shouldn’t be stored in the bathroom, where humidity is high, especially not on a washing machine where vibrations occur. These conditions can shorten their lifespan. And never, ever rub your wrists after applying perfume! Doing so breaks down the fragrance molecules, causing the scent to dissipate faster. More tips can be found in our article: Tips for Storing Perfumes.

Myth 5: Testers are more long- lasting than regular bottles

The claim that testers are longer-lasting or more intense than the original product is another widespread myth. If you’ve been disappointed by a purchased perfume being less long-lasting than a tester, here’s why. Perfumes undergo a process called “maceration.” When a bottle is partially used and left to sit for weeks or months, the fragrance matures, becoming more intense. Testers, often opened and used over long periods in stores, naturally undergo this maturation. Moreover, perfumes are subject to reformulations—changes in their composition due to ingredient availability, international regulations, or other factors. Always check the serial number; the tester might be from an older batch, predating a reformulation. In conclusion, testers are not superior to packaged products! They are randomly selected from retail stock or are the same product in simpler packaging.

Myth 6: Quality perfumes must be expensive

Another common myth is that high-quality perfumes must cost a fortune. Coco Chanel once said: Perfume should be like a slap in the face, leaving no room to wonder for hours whether it smells or not. It must be noble, and what gives it power costs a great deal of money. While some agree, we don’t entirely. A perfume’s price is influenced by branding, advertising, distribution, and packaging costs. To find a genuinely high-quality product, don’t rely solely on celebrity endorsements. Explore various perfumes, including niche brands, and purchase from reputable sources. Your personal impression matters most, not what’s trending globally.

Myth 7: Perfumes smell the same on everyone

It’s also untrue that perfumes smell the same on everyone. The same fragrance can smell different on different individuals or even on the same person under varying conditions. Body chemistry, diet changes, hormonal fluctuations, or cycles can alter how a perfume smells on your skin. Never buy a perfume just because it smells great on someone else. Always test it on your skin to see how it blends with your chemistry.

Myth 8: You can find the perfect perfume in one visit

We also need to mention common mistakes when shopping for perfumes. Choosing the perfect scent in one visit is challenging, especially if you test multiple products. Studies show that after smelling more than three perfumes, our nose loses its ability to distinguish scents. It’s best to visit a perfumery in the morning when your sense of smell is sharpest, and the store isn’t filled with a mix of scents.

Summary

Finally, buying perfume is not like buying bread or other essentials. Perfumery is an art, and like any art form, there are imitations and products marketed as premium. Awareness and education in this field help you evaluate perfumes based on various factors. As Patrick Süskind wrote in “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer": What should a perfume be? Subtlety, power, longevity, variety, and stunning, irresistible beauty. May this knowledge help you find your perfect fragrance.