Many of us have sisters, aunts, grandmothers or other women who dote on us and make our lives extra special. When Christmas or a birthday rolls around, it’s nice to show these important people in our lives how much we appreciate them. What better gift than perfume?
Perfume is a concentrated mixture of aromatic compounds that are typically stored in glass bottles with a pump or spray applicator. Historically, the best perfumes were created from natural ingredients. Some of these included musk (from musk deer glands) and hyraceum (petrified yrax feces). Today, most perfumes contain both natural and synthetic odorants. For example, calone is a synthetic that gives the smell of the ocean to some fragrances. The combination of both natural and synthetic compounds makes the creation of perfume much faster, easier and more affordable than it was in the early 19th century when modern perfume making began.
As with flowers and chocolate, perfume is a very personal thing that can be very different on different people. This is partly due to the fact that scents interact with our body chemistry. What might smell good on your friend could be a nightmare for you. Also, where you apply your perfume can make a big difference. For example, some perfumes may work better on your chest than on your wrists.
Kurkdjian recommends spritzing yourself a little bit more than you think you need. Also, be sure to use a companion body lotion and store your perfume away from direct sunlight.