The Right Way to Spray a Perfume

Nikita Dumbani, a Mumbai-based perfumer and founder of OOAK (One of a Kind), is dedicated to creating fragrances that feel deeply personal and expressive. Beyond crafting signature scents, she also curates perfume-making workshops that introduce people to the artistry of fragrance and the way it becomes an extension of one’s identity.

While choosing the right perfume is an intimate process, the method of application is often overlooked. The way a fragrance is worn determines how long it lasts, how it evolves throughout the day, and how it interacts with the skin. Simply put, spraying correctly is as important as selecting the scent itself.

Here are the essential guidelines for applying perfume the right way:

Perfume performs best when applied to warm areas of the body. Spritz on the wrists, behind the ears, at the base of the throat, inside the elbows, or behind the knees. These pulse points help the fragrance diffuse more effectively.

Rubbing wrists together after spraying is a common mistake. This disrupts the fragrance structure, particularly the delicate top notes. Instead, allow the perfume to settle naturally.

Hydrated skin holds scent for longer. A light layer of unscented moisturizer before application creates a smooth base, preventing the fragrance from fading too quickly.

Perfume should complement rather than dominate. Two to four sprays are generally sufficient, depending on the concentration. Subtlety ensures the scent leaves a lasting impression without overwhelming.

Perfume can be applied lightly to clothing or hair for added longevity. However, testing on fabric is essential, as some materials may stain, and alcohol in perfumes can dry out hair.

Perfume is more than an accessory — it is a signature, a story, and a silent introduction. With the right application, each fragrance is given the chance to unfold beautifully, exactly as it was designed to.