Sunday, March 1, 2009

How to Choose the Right Perfume

What's the secret behind perfume? It's alluring! And, if there is any truth to aromatherapy, it's also mood elevating.Here are some helpful tips and little know facts about perfume.

Step1--What is it? Perfume comes in different strengths such as Eau de Parfum and Eau de toilette. Alcohol is used as a base for perfume and the ratio of alcohol to perfume concentrates, denotes the strength and label given to the fragrance, with "perfume" being the strongest, purest and most expensive!

Step2--Perfume: This is the "high-test" version of the fragrances and shouldbe applied sparingly to your pulse points. Since it is rich in scentedoils, a little goes a long way! This explains why it comes in petite,fancy bottles with a "dabber" and is usually deeper in color than the"sister" versions. Fall and Winter are perfect seasons for wearing therich, luxurious scents of your favorite perfume. Once you open the bottle, for the first time, don't hord it, wear it, because all fragrance has a shelf life of about a year, once it is opened.

Step3--Eau de Parfum: This is the most popular and for good reason. It is less expensive than perfume(concentrate) but has some of the long lasting fragrant oils. This type of scent usually comes in a spraybottle and during the holidays, it is packaged in beautiful gift sets with lotion, body wash and powder. This is the best time to buy since the sets offer more product for the money and "layering" your scent helps to make it last longer. The way to do this is to apply the spray,then the lotion and "set it" with a light dusting of the body powder!This is known as "layering" and it really works! Just be sure not toover do it, especially if you are going to work.

Step4--Eau de Toilette: This is a very light version of fragrance is much likea body splash. Eau de toilette is perfect for the summertime whenthe heat can intensify the scent without making it overpowering.Because of the lightness of this type of scent, it can be re-appliedthroughout the day or night.

Step5--If you have sensitive skin and cannot tolerate putting fragrance directly on your skin, try spraying it in front of you and walking through it.This way, it will get on your clothes without staining them.You can also spray Eau de parfum or Eau de toilette in your hair!I have been doing this for years and it works great!

Step6--History: The creation of perfume dates back thousands of years andthe word "perfume" is Latin for "through smoke". Fragrances have threemain notes. The base not will determine which fragrance familythe scent will fall into. Some common base notes are Patchouli, Musk and Sandalwood. The top note is what you smell first and thenthe middle or "heart" notes and lastly the base notes.Since everyone body chemistry is unique, this explains howfragrances can smell different on different people. If possible,try a sample before you buy. When you find a fragrance you like,be sure to store it in a cool, dry place, away from sun exposure.Use fragrance to match your mood and your clothing! If its summertimeand you are wearing a sundress, choose a light, whimsical scent.In winter, choose a rich, sophisticated scent.

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