Guide to Fragrance
By Rebecca Jenkinson, Beauty Editor
With our fragrances guide, you can find out everything you need to know before buying or using the product. If you're ready to buy or want to see our selection, visit our fragrance page.
Top Fragrance Brands
Your Guide To Fragrance
Home Fragrance
Home fragrance does so much more than just make your space smell nice — it can completely transform the mood and ambience of your home. The right scent can help you unwind after a long day, boost your focus while working, or even make your home feel more inviting when you have guests over.
How to fragrance your home
When it comes to options, there's plenty to choose from. Scented candles are a favourite for adding warmth and character to any room, and you can pick different scents depending on the space — think calming lavender for the bedroom or something fresh and zesty like citrus for the kitchen. Diffusers are another great option if you're after a long-lasting, subtle fragrance that keeps things smelling lovely without the need for flames. And for a quick burst of scent, room sprays are a perfect go-to.
Choosing the right fragrance for each room is key. Different areas call for different vibes, like calming and soothing scents for bedrooms (lavender, chamomile) and energising fragrances for kitchens or living areas (citrus, mint). You can also switch things up with the seasons — go for something floral and light in spring, or rich and spicy in winter for a cosy feel.
How to use essential oils for home fragrance
Essential oils are not only fantastic for skincare but also perfect for creating inviting aromas in your home. A few drops in a reed diffuser or humidifier can significantly enhance your environment.
Widely loved essential oils include invigorating peppermint and soothing eucalyptus or chamomile. The key to finding the perfect essential oil is understanding your personal preferences and mood. The beauty of essential oils lies in their versatility—you can blend different oils to match your feelings and needs each day.
Three small bottles on wooden table">Tips and tricks for home fragrances
To get the most out of your home fragrance, make sure you're using your candles and diffusers properly. For candles, trim the wick to avoid excess smoke and burn them long enough to melt the entire top layer for even use. Diffusers should be placed in areas with good air circulation to spread the scent evenly. And don't be afraid to layer scents! Combining complementary fragrances can create a more personalised and complex aroma.
Men's Fragrance
When it comes to men’s fragrances, understanding the different types can help you find the perfect scent that suits your style and keeps you smelling fresh all day. The two most common options you'll come across are Eau de Toilette (EDT) and Eau de Parfum (EDP). The main difference between Eau de Parfum (EDP) and Eau de Toilette (EDT) is the concentration of fragrance oils. EDP contains around 15% to 20% fragrance oils, making it more intense and longer-lasting—perfect for special occasions or when you want a more pronounced scent.
On the other hand, EDT has a lighter concentration, typically between 5% and 15%, which makes it great for everyday wear with a fresher, subtler aroma that doesn’t linger as long. So, if you're after something that lasts and makes a statement, go for EDP; if you prefer something lighter and more casual, EDT is for you.
Cologne is a type of fragrance that is typically lighter and less concentrated than both (EDP) and (EDT). In terms of concentration, cologne usually falls into the category of Eau de Cologne, which contains around 2% to 5% fragrance oils. This makes it lighter and more subtle, similar to EDT but generally even more fleeting in terms of longevity. If you're after something even more subtle, cologne offers a light, fresh fragrance, perfect for casual, day-to-day use.
What are the different types of men’s fragrances?
Men's fragrances generally fall into a few key scent families. Woody scents like sandalwood or cedar are classic, masculine, and grounding, making them ideal for those who want a strong, sophisticated vibe. If you prefer something fresh and lively, citrus fragrances with notes of lemon or bergamot are super energising so if that's something you're after then be sure to check out our guide for the Best Citrus Perfumes. For a more exotic, warm scent, spicy and oriental fragrances are your go-to, with notes like pepper, vanilla, or amber giving a rich, bold profile.
Choosing the right men's fragrance is all about matching it to your personality and lifestyle. For a relaxed, casual vibe, a light, fresh cologne might be your best bet, while a more intense woody or oriental scent can be perfect for formal events or evenings out. Don't forget to factor in the seasons, too—lighter, citrusy scents are great for summer, while warmer, spicier fragrances suit autumn and winter.
What are the most popular men’s fragrances?
Some of the most popular men's fragrances right now include classic favourites like Dior Sauvage, Acqua di Giò by Giorgio Armani, and Bleu de Chanel, each offering a unique take on modern masculinity. Standout brands for men's fragrances are Tom Ford and Yves Saint Laurent who are known for more premium scents and have an excellent range to choose from. For a more in-depth guide, check out our expert tips on How To Find Your Signature Scent.
How to apply fragrances
When it comes to applying fragrance, a little goes a long way. Focus on pulse points—like your wrists, neck, and behind the ears—where your skin is warm and helps diffuse the scent throughout the day. Be mindful of how much you use; two to three spritzes should be enough. For extra longevity, you can layer your fragrance with matching grooming products, such as aftershave or scented lotions, to lock in the scent and keep you smelling great all day.
Women's Perfume
Women’s perfumes come in a wide variety of scent families, each offering something unique. Floral fragrances are some of the most popular, with their soft, romantic notes like rose, jasmine, and gardenia. Perfect for those who want something feminine and classic. If you’re after something fun and flirty, fruity perfumes are the way to go. With sweet notes like peach, berries, or apple, they’re playful and full of energy.
For something a bit warmer and more sensual, oriental perfumes are ideal. These often feature rich, spicy notes like vanilla, amber, and musk, making them perfect for evening wear or colder months. Finally, there’s the fresh family, offering clean, invigorating scents like sea breeze, cucumber, or green tea, perfect for an everyday, effortless vibe.
What are the most popular women’s fragrances?
From eau de parfum to cologne and eau de toilette, there's a vast array of fragrances for women, each offering a unique blend of notes ranging from light and playful to deep and sensual. At Cosmetify, you'll find an extensive selection to explore, featuring both well-known high-end brands and budget-friendly choices.
Top fragrance brands that we love include Byredo, Jo Malone, Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, and Chanel. Dive into our perfume sale to find your next signature fragrance or discover the perfect perfume gift for someone special in your life. Here are a few of our favourite scents:
How to layer fragrances
If you want your fragrance to last even longer throughout the day, one of the best tricks is layering. Start by using a scented body lotion or body oil from the same fragrance family, or ideally, the same scent line as your perfume.
Applying a moisturising base before spritzing on your perfume helps the fragrance cling to your skin and extend its longevity. The moisture acts as a barrier that holds onto the scent molecules, making the fragrance last for hours. You can also use matching body washes or shower gels to create a more cohesive, long-lasting effect.
How to store perfume
When it comes to storing your perfume, taking care of where and how you store it is essential for keeping it fresh and preserving its scent. Perfumes are sensitive to temperature changes, light, and humidity, so always keep your bottle in a cool, dry place, preferably away from windows or direct sunlight. Light and heat can cause the perfume's composition to break down, leading to the scent deteriorating or changing over time.
Additionally, avoid keeping your perfume in the bathroom, as the constant shifts in humidity and heat can impact the fragrance's quality. If stored properly, perfumes can stay fresh for years, sometimes even decades. By following these tips, you'll ensure your favourite scent smells just as good as the day you bought it.
How to choose a scent that works for you
When picking the perfect fragrance, there are a few handy tricks to keep in mind. First, don't just rely on how it smells from the bottle—always test it on your skin. Fragrances can smell different once they react with your body chemistry, so spritz a little on your wrist and let it settle for a few minutes to see how it evolves.
Another tip is to avoid testing too many scents at once, as your nose can get overwhelmed. Stick to 2-3 scents at a time and take breaks in between to refresh your senses. Finally, consider your lifestyle and the occasion. A light, fresh scent might be perfect for daytime, while something richer or more exotic could be just what you need for evening wear or special events.