How to make perfume last longer

Nine practical ways to make perfume last longer in hot, humid Pakistani weather: where to spray, what to avoid and how to store your bottle.

Start with the right concentration

Eau de Parfum lasts longer than Eau de Toilette, which lasts longer than body spray. If longevity matters, check the label before you buy.

Spray on moisturised skin

Dry skin lets fragrance evaporate faster. An unscented lotion first gives the perfume something to hold on to.

Use pulse points

Wrists, the base of the throat, behind the ears and inside the elbows are warm and help the scent develop.

Do not rub your wrists

Rubbing breaks down the top notes and makes the opening disappear faster.

Spray your clothes too

Fabric holds scent longer than skin in heat. Test on an inside seam first, especially on silk and light colours.

Spray after a shower, not before sweating

Clean skin holds perfume best. In summer, spray before you get dressed rather than before stepping into the sun.

Keep a travel size

A 5ml tester in your bag lets you refresh after lunch instead of overspraying in the morning. Houdini puts one in every order, free.

Store it away from heat and light

Car dashboards, bathrooms and sunny shelves break perfume down. Keep bottles in their box, in a cool cupboard.

Choose deeper base notes for long days

Woods, amber, musk and vanilla last longest. See our long lasting perfumes for scents built on them.