Ask The Expert is a monthly column to answer your questions on topics related to style. This time, founder of local fragrance brand Ark Lifestyle, Shawn Wong, shares his knowledge, from choosing a scent to understanding the different concentrations.
Why are there so many terms for fragrances – parfum, EDP, EDT and EDC? I’m confused. Could you explain the differences in the simplest way possible? – Camilla, Subang
These terms generally refer to the concentration of fragrance oils, which affects how strong a scent smells and how long it tends to last on the skin.
Parfum is the most concentrated, offering a richer scent that usually lasts the longest.
Eau de parfum (EDP) is also strong and long-lasting, making it suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Eau de toilette (EDT) is lighter and fresher, making it a popular choice for daytime or warmer weather, while eau de cologne (EDC) is the lightest and most refreshing, but tends to fade more quickly.
Read more: Is bespoke the future of fragrance? Inside beauty’s new scent status symbol
Why does the same perfume smell so different on me compared with someone else? Sometimes, a fragrance smells great when I test it in a store, but completely different when I wear it on my skin. – Priya, Kota Samarahan
Everyone’s skin is different. Your skin type, body temperature, natural body scent and even the weather can affect how a fragrance develops.
A perfume also changes over time. What you smell immediately after spraying may be different from what you smell 30 minutes later.
We always recommend testing it on your skin and allowing it to settle before deciding.
How do I make my fragrance last longer without having to keep spraying it throughout the day? – Amir, Labuan
Apply perfume after showering when your skin is clean and slightly moisturised.
Fragrance usually lasts longer on hydrated skin, so you can apply an unscented lotion first. You may also spray a little on your clothing, but test on delicate fabrics beforehand.
Most importantly, do not rub your wrists together if you apply it to that area. It can change how the fragrance develops.
Store your perfume away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain its quality.
Is there really a “right” body part to spray perfume, or is that just another beauty myth? – Anjali, Banting
Pulse points are usually the best places because they naturally produce warmth, which helps the fragrance develop.
These include the wrists, neck, behind the ears and inside the elbows.
Can you wear more than one fragrance at the same time, or will they just clash? – Sarah, Bera
Yes, we called it fragrance layering. It allows you to create a scent that feels more personal and unique.
Start with two fragrances and apply the stronger or deeper scent first, followed by the lighter one. For example, a woody fragrance can be softened with floral or citrus notes.
Begin with a small amount, as too many strong fragrances may compete with one another.
I love perfume but find strong scents overwhelming. How do I choose something that is subtle but still noticeable? – Elena, Shah Alam
I will suggest looking for soft and clean notes such as white tea, green tea, citrus, light florals, musk, sea salt or gentle woods. These fragrances tend to stay closer to the skin instead of filling the entire room.
You can also control the strength through the number of sprays.
A subtle fragrance does not need to be weak.
Think of it this way – it should only be noticeable when someone comes closer, rather than overwhelming everyone around you.
Read more: What does milk smell like? The fragrance world is suddenly (and oddly) obsessed
What are some of the most popular fragrance scents right now? I’ve been seeing a lot of products featuring scents like milk and green tea, and I’m curious about what people are wearing these days. – Marcus, Kuantan
From what we have observed in the current fragrance market, preferences are shifting towards tea-inspired, milky and creamy scents rather than overly sweet or purely floral fragrances.
Notes such as green tea, matcha and white tea are becoming popular because they feel clean, calming and modern.
Citrus and woody notes are also in demand, adding freshness, depth and balance.
Overall, customers are now looking for fragrances that feel soft, comforting and easy to wear every day.
Do you have any questions on fashion and beauty? Email us with the subject heading Ask The Expert at lifestyle@thestar.com.my. Please include your name, address, contact number and if you prefer, a pseudonym.
