How to apply perfume: where to spray and how much
How to apply perfume step by step: where to spray, how far to hold the bottle, how many sprays to use and what not to do.
The short answer
Spray on clean, moisturized pulse points from 15 to 20 centimeters away. Use one to three sprays of eau de parfum and let it dry without rubbing.
- Use a light hand in offices, and avoid broken skin and delicate fabrics.
To apply perfume, spray on clean, moisturized skin at your pulse points, such as your wrists, the base of your throat and behind your ears, from about 15 to 20 centimeters away, and let it dry without rubbing. One to three sprays is plenty for most eau de parfum.
Step by step
- Start after your shower. Skin is clean, warm and a little damp, which helps hold scent.
- Moisturize with an unscented or matching lotion.
- Spray at the pulse points: wrists, inside of the elbows, behind the ears, base of the throat and behind the knees.
- Hold the bottle 15 to 20 centimeters away so the mist spreads.
- Let it dry. Do not rub your wrists together.
- Add a mist to your hair or a scarf if you want a trail, using a light hand.
How much is enough?
- Eau de parfum: one to three sprays
- Eau de toilette: two to four sprays
- Cologne or body mist: as many as you like
Add less rather than more. You will smell your own perfume less after a while because of nose blindness, so do not add more than you started with.
Where not to spray
- On broken or irritated skin
- Before sun exposure on the same spot, because some ingredients can leave marks on skin in strong sun, so spray on clothing or a covered area
- Directly on delicate fabrics or jewelry, which can stain or tarnish
Day and evening
- Day: one or two sprays of a lighter fragrance, on a pulse point
- Evening: a richer fragrance, with a spray at the base of the neck and wrists
- Office: a very light hand
To make a scent last, see how to make perfume last longer, and for building up a scent see perfume layering. The Signature Scent Edit includes an application guide.
Related guides
Read next: How to Choose a Perfume That Suits You · What Season Am I? Find Your Color Season
Questions people ask about this
Where is the best place to spray perfume?
On clean, moisturized pulse points: wrists, inside of the elbows, behind the ears and the base of the throat. A light mist on your hair also works.
How many sprays of perfume should I use?
One to three for eau de parfum and two to four for eau de toilette. Use fewer in offices and enclosed spaces.
Should I rub my wrists together after spraying?
No. Rubbing can break down the top notes. Spray and let it dry.
How far should I hold the perfume bottle?
About 15 to 20 centimeters from your skin, so the spray spreads evenly instead of soaking one spot.
