The ritual
The art of applying perfume.
A small ritualA considered amount. A quiet moment. A scent that feels like part of you.
The last detail before you leave should be easy. Good application begins with a little restraint and enough time to let the fragrance settle.
Open a section to explore the details.
Start with clean, comfortable skin
Let unscented moisturiser absorb.
In the photograph · Rasasi
Hawas for Him
100 ml · Eau de Parfum
Dry off after your shower. If you use an unscented moisturiser, let it absorb before applying perfume. It keeps the routine simple and avoids a strongly scented lotion competing with your fragrance.
Choose one or two places
A few considered points are enough.
In the photograph · Ahmed Al Maghribi
Kaaf
100 ml · Eau de Parfum
The wrists, inner elbows or sides of the neck are familiar pulse-point options. You do not need to cover all of them. Hold the bottle a short distance from the skin, following its directions, and let the mist land lightly.
Keep fragrance away from eyes and irritated skin. Follow the product label if it gives different application advice.
Begin quietly
Let the fragrance and room guide you.
In the photograph · Lattafa
Khamrah Original
100 ml · Eau de Parfum
For a new perfume, our practical starting point is one spray, or two for a lighter application pattern. Let it settle before deciding whether you need more. Atomisers and formulas vary, so no spray count works for every bottle.
Use the room as your guide: a shared office, small car or dinner table calls for more restraint than an outdoor evening.
Let it dry
Leave the sprayed area alone.
In the photograph · Rasasi
Hawas Ice
100 ml · Eau de Parfum
Leave the sprayed area alone rather than rubbing your wrists together. Allow it to dry before putting jewellery over it. There is no need for a cloud of perfume in the air.
A good starting point: enough to notice at close range.
Make the next wear better
Change one thing on the next wear.
In the photograph · IBRAQ
White Regent Diamond
150 ml · Eau de Parfum
Pay attention to the opening and the scent later in the day. Adjust one thing next time: the amount or where you apply it. You will learn more from a few considered wears than from adding spray after spray on the first morning.
Application reference: Jo Malone London. Starting amounts and setting suggestions are our editorial guidance.
Sources & further reading
“Enough to notice at close range.”