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The Art of Layering Perfume Like A Fragrance Master
If you’re a perfume enthusiast, it’s important to embrace the numerous benefits of layering fragrances. In case you’re unacquainted with perfume layering, think of it this way. You can layer one perfume over another in such a way that the notes of the two complement each other to create a third unique accord that helps your fragrance stand out.
Recently, many brands are releasing one-note perfumes that are easier to layer so even those new to the perfume world can slowly build up a fragrance with the help of perfume layering.
It’s important to note that layering isn’t limited to just perfumes. You can also use the layering technique to pair perfumes with body products that have similar scent notes to increase the former’s longevity.
The main benefit of perfume layering is that individuals can create custom scents that are able to showcase their personality better than any off-the-shelf perfume. Having the power to whip up custom scent blends is magical, and it allows for limitless versatility when you are choosing your scent for the day.
If you are someone who’s been unable to find your signature scent until now, you may want to consider perfume layering to create your very own signature scent concoction. The best part is that you will smell unique no matter which room you walk into!
Scent combinations that work wonders
You can start the scent layering process as soon as you step out of the shower. Scented lotions are just as effective layering tools as other perfumes.
Don’t shy away from trying out different combinations because experience often teaches us better what we like and dislike. Heavier scents are usually sprayed before their lighter counterparts so the latter can hold on to their scent profile.
A good starting point is pairing perfumes with a common note even if they belong to separate families. You can also choose to layer a simple perfume with commonly loved notes with a complicated one to create something daring but isn’t over the top.
Another option is to use a single-note scent to enhance the notes of your primary perfume. For example, if you want to highlight the rose note in your perfume, consider layering with a one-note rose fragrance underneath. On the other hand, if you want your citrus/aquatic fragrances to last, you can layer them with woody, earthy fragrances.
Once you understand the fragrance cycle and the characteristics of the different fragrance families, the process of perfume layering becomes demystified to an extent. Here’s a handy guide that you can follow.
Limitations of layering: What to avoid?
As mentioned before, experimentation is crucial for your journey to discovering your signature scent. Sometimes, you have to experience something that you don’t like to appreciate what you love and understand how you can enhance it. Having an open-minded approach will always help you out!
Whenever you come across a combination that smells repulsive, note it down for future reference. For example, you will often find that combining two dark and rich perfumes can lead to strange results, especially if they have clashing notes. Similarly, pairing two strong perfumes with dominant heady notes can lead to an overwhelming fragrance.
The key isn’t oversaturating or over-layering so that the balance of the resulting scent is maintained. Any body mist or lotion that you wear alongside has to complement the notes of the chosen perfumes.
We’ve made a handy fragrance layering chart that’ll give you an idea of the best perfume layering combinations, ones you should avoid and the versatility of the different fragrance families. You can use that knowledge to list out all the possible combinations in your fragrance wardrobe and then embark on a lengthy perfume exploration journey to find that elusive signature scent.
After trying out different layering experiments, we can repeat often enough to take notes and track what works and what doesn’t!
What about layering perfume with lotion or body mist?
Moisturising your skin can improve your confidence, but layering body mist or body lotion with your perfume can be a game-changer!
Before going into details, we should know what we are trying to achieve. When applying body mist, you’re essentially spraying a lighter, gentler fragrance on yourself that doesn’t last as long as other concentrations. This can be used to hydrate your skin and provide the foundation layer for your signature scent. You can also combine it with body lotion for added benefits!
And what about the benefits of layering your favourite perfume with body lotion?
- Make it last longer: Applying a good moisturiser will amplify and maintain the fragrance of your skin.
- Complement your fragrances: This is where the fun part begins, scents from the same family are an incredible way to start, but if you are willing to have an outstanding fragrance, you can start complimenting your fragrances from different families to achieve a more unique smell.
How To Layer Perfume and Lotion
Follow these steps to start layering lotion and perfume:
- Apply your lotion: Apply your favourite lotion on which parts you would apply perfume, and if you are going to complement it with your fragrance, then use a moisturiser that goes well with the scent category that you are interested. You can use the combinations chart above as a guide.
- Spritz on Your Fragrance: Apply and pair with the fragrance of your choice. At this point, you just have to enjoy the incredible fragrance that you will have, achieving unique and irresistible scents!
Other considerations when creating a signature scent with perfume layering
A disadvantage of crafting your signature scent by layering different perfumes is the lack of convenience as you won’t be able to pick up one bottle and spray it on effortlessly. Maintaining the delicate balance of the two perfumes is key if you want to achieve a consistent result every time.
Opening up to the idea that your signature scent won’t smell exactly the same every day will go a long way in getting used to the process. Embrace the flexibility that comes with being able to vary the proportions of your layering items depending on your mood and preference for the day.
If you are hesitant to layer your expensive perfumes without prior experience, you can consider picking up a few compatible samples or one-note perfumes that will open up multiple opportunities of experimentation with layering.
Interested in learning more? Check out our blog on Why Perfume & Skin Chemistry Truly Matters.
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