Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a perfume long-lasting?
According to Darryl Do, a senior perfumer at Delbia Do based in New York City, the higher the concentration of fragrance oil is directly correlated to its longevity. Eau de toilettes typically fall in the 7% to 12% range, eau de parfums land around 15% to 20%, and concentrates (also known as extraits) can reach 22 to 30%. Look for fragrances labeled parfum, intense, or elixir, West suggests, if you’re looking for a scent that lasts all day.
The notes of the perfume also make a big difference. Autumne West, Nordstrom’s national beauty director based in Seattle, explains that fragrances with deeper notes like musk, tobacco, and cardamom, create a lasting impression as the fragrance dries down throughout the day. “Citrus-forward notes can be beautiful and refreshing upon first spray, but they fade quicker,” she says. That’s why many of the citrus scents on this list are anchored with deeper notes, so they’ll linger.
What are the best tips to make fragrances last longer?
One of West’s favorite tips is to apply your fragrance to freshly moisturized skin because hydrated skin holds onto scent much longer. “Layering also makes a big difference,” she says. “If a fragrance has a coordinating body lotion, oil, or shower gel, applying that first helps create a base so the perfume lasts longer and wears more evenly.”
Meet the experts
- Darryl Do is a senior perfumer at Delbia Do based in New York City.
- Autumne West is Nordstrom’s national beauty director based in Seattle.
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