Fragrance — Guide
How to find and wear a fragrance you love.
Scent families, strengths, notes and the small habits that help a perfume last all day without overwhelming the room.
6 minute read
Written and reviewed by Beauty World Editorial · Last reviewed October 2026
Families
The main scent families
Floral
Rose, jasmine, peony; romantic and classic.
Fresh
Citrus, green and aquatic notes; clean and light.
Woody
Sandalwood, cedar, vetiver; warm and grounded.
Amber / oriental
Vanilla, resins and spice; rich and sensual.
Strength
Concentrations explained
Parfum / extrait
The most concentrated; lasts longest, apply sparingly.
Eau de parfum
Long-lasting and the most popular choice.
Eau de toilette
Lighter, good for daytime and warm weather.
Body mist / cologne
Very light; refresh through the day.
Notes
Top, heart and base
Top notes are what you smell first and fade within minutes. Heart notes appear after about 20 minutes. Base notes stay longest. That's why a perfume can smell different an hour later.
Wearing it
Make it last
Moisturize first
Fragrance lasts longer on hydrated skin.
Pulse points
Wrists, neck and behind the ears.
Don't rub
Rubbing wrists breaks down the top notes.
Store it well
Keep bottles away from heat and sunlight.
Caution
Sensitive skin
Fragrance can irritate sensitive skin. Spray on clothing instead of skin if you react, and avoid applying to sun-exposed areas, as some citrus oils can cause marks in sunlight.
