How Long Does Perfume Last? 5 Ways to Make It Stay Longer

One of the most common fragrance frustrations is longevity. You spray your perfume in the morning, only to find it vanished by lunch. But with a few techniques and the right knowledge, you can extend the life of your fragrance and enjoy it through the day.

1. Understand Perfume Concentration
Perfumes come in various concentrations that affect longevity:

• Eau de Cologne (2–4%): Lightest, lasts about 2 hours.
• Eau de Toilette (5–15%): Lighter wear, lasts 4–6 hours.
• Eau de Parfum (15–20%): Richer, lasts 6–8 hours.
• Parfum/Extrait (20–30%): Highest concentration, can last 12+ hours.

SIXTEEN uses high concentrations in all our blends, ensuring that a little goes a long way.

2. Apply to Pulse Points
Apply your fragrance on pulse points where the skin is warm—wrists, neck, behind ears. Heat intensifies the diffusion of scent.

3. Don’t Rub, Just Press
Rubbing your wrists together after applying perfume breaks down the molecular structure and disturbs the top notes. Instead, gently press the scent into your skin.

4. Hydrate Your Skin
Dry skin doesn’t hold fragrance as well. Use an unscented moisturizer before applying your perfume. Oily skin retains scent longer, making hydration a key step.

5. Store It Properly
Light, heat, and humidity degrade perfume. Keep bottles in a cool, dry place, preferably in their original box. Avoid storing in bathrooms.

With the right care, your fragrance becomes a quiet companion that lingers and evolves—long after it’s applied.