Summer is here, and while we love the sunshine, beach days, and glowing skin, the heat can be a real challenge for our favourite fragrances. If you’ve ever sprayed on your go-to scent in the morning only for it to disappear by lunchtime, you’re not alone. Warmer temperatures can break down fragrance molecules faster, causing scents to fade more quickly than usual.
But don’t worry — there are smart, stylish ways to keep your signature scent lingering all day long. Whether you’re heading to brunch with the girls, chasing toddlers at the park, or enjoying a romantic sunset dinner, here’s how to make your perfume last longer this summer.
1. Start With Moisturised Skin
Perfume clings better to moisturised skin than dry skin. After your shower, lock in hydration with a fragrance-free body lotion or a matching lotion to your perfume if you have one. Oily or well-hydrated skin holds scent molecules longer, giving your fragrance more staying power.
Pro Tip: A touch of Vaseline or an unscented balm on your pulse points before applying perfume creates a base for the scent to grip to — think of it as fragrance primer.
2. Apply to Pulse Points (But Skip the Rub!)
Pulse points are areas where blood vessels are close to the skin, naturally radiating heat to help diffuse your scent. The key ones to target in the summer include:
- Wrists
- Inner elbows
- Behind the knees
- The base of your throat
- Behind your ears
Spritz lightly and avoid rubbing your wrists together — that can actually break down the top notes of your fragrance, making it disappear faster.
3. Layer It Up
Layering is one of the most effective ways to make your perfume last. Start with a scented body wash or lotion in the same fragrance family, followed by your perfume. If your favourite scent doesn’t come with matching body products, opt for complementary scents (think floral with floral, citrus with citrus).
This layering effect creates depth and reinforces your scent throughout the day.
4. Spray Strategically
Summer is not the time to douse your entire body in perfume. Focus on your pulse points and perhaps give a light mist on your hairbrush (not directly on your hair, as alcohol can dry it out). You can also spritz your clothes — but be cautious with delicate fabrics or silk to avoid staining.
Bonus: Spray your perfume on the inside lining of your outfit or your scarf for a subtle yet long-lasting effect.
5. Store It Right
Heat, light, and humidity can degrade your perfume. Keep your bottles out of the bathroom and away from direct sunlight. Instead, store them in a cool, dark place — like a drawer or your wardrobe. This helps preserve the integrity and longevity of your scent.
6. Switch to Stronger or Summer-Friendly Scents
If your favourite perfume fades too fast in the heat, consider switching to an eau de parfum (which has more staying power than an eau de toilette), or opt for fragrances specifically designed for summer — look for fresh, zesty, or aquatic notes that naturally wear well in warmer weather.
7. Reapply with a Twist
Carry a travel-size version of your perfume or a solid perfume in your bag for on-the-go touch-ups. Solid or oil-based perfumes are especially great for summer — they tend to stay closer to the skin and last longer than alcohol-based sprays.
Your signature scent is an extension of your style — it should speak for you long after you leave the room. With these summer-proof tips, your fragrance will last from school runs to date nights, making you feel polished, put-together, and oh-so-stylish.
What’s your favourite summer scent?
Let us know in the comments, and share your own fragrance tips, we’d love to hear them!
