This way your perfume will last even better
Perfume that seems to disappear after a split second is a kind of standard story for me. After an hour, I just can't smell it anymore. And honestly: I do understand that some people completely immerse themselves in their scent and keep spraying (which makes their fellow humans a bit less happy, but so be it). For years, the tip was to first apply a layer of Vaseline before spraying your perfume. The idea: a greasy base holds the scent better. And yes, that works. But such a sticky layer? That's just not really my thing. Fortunately, there is a new way to ensure that your perfume lasts longer.
Layering, but chic
In 2026, everything revolves around layering. Not just in your skincare or makeup, but also in perfume. Where Vaseline is mainly practical and easy (everyone has a jar of it at home), it's now about something much prettier: building your scent in layers. And that's where body lotion comes into play, but not just any lotion. The real game changer? A body lotion in (or as close as possible to) your favorite scent. Think of brands like Diptyque: there you can shop a body lotion variant of some bestsellers.
By first applying that lovely body lotion as a base, you create an underlayer where your perfume literally sets in. A hydrated skin holds scent better, but by choosing a lotion in the same fragrance family, you also enhance your perfume's content. And that's exactly why some people smell wonderful all day long without you ever seeing them reapply.
Why some perfumes fade faster
Not every perfume is made to last all day. Warm, deep notes like wood, vanilla, and musk naturally have more staying power, while fresh, light (often summery) scents, unfortunately, fade faster.
The concentration also plays a role: an Eau de Parfum or Extrait (which you see more often nowadays; this is the most concentrated form) simply lasts longer than an Eau de Toilette. Good to keep in mind when investing in a new scent.
The golden tip for this summer
Go all-in, but in the right way. It's not the intention to give your neighbor a headache. And a tip from me: if you're going out for a lovely dinner, spray sparingly. Believe me, I sat next to someone at the wonderful restaurant Le Pristine by Sergio Herman, and an unknown couple sat next to us at a table, and he was so strongly perfumed that every bite tasted like his perfume. Not really nice, so. Start after showering with a nice layer of body lotion in your favorite scent (or something close to it). Then spray your perfume on multiple spots: neck, behind your ears, in your elbows, and possibly a subtle mist over your clothing or hair. Wearing silk or another delicate fabric? Then leave your clothing out of consideration — you don't want any stains, of course.
Our favorite body lotions with our favorite scents? Here they come:
