Fragrance Hacks by Leighton Denny MBE
Having created four successful fragrances (including the award-winning Desire!), Leighton Denny MBE knows a thing or two about scent! With his expertise, he's going to share some top-secret fragrance hacks, answer some questions and let you know where you might have been going wrong!
How does my skin type affect fragrance?
The oils in skin dissolve and retain scent molecules. Therefore, the oilier your skin, the more intense a fragrance will be and the longer it will last.
Why does a fragrance smell wonderful on a friend, yet do nothing for me?
This is because each of us has our own 'scent print' - this odour-identity is the sum of our genes, our skin chemistry, diet, medication intake, stress level and, probably the most important factor of all, the temperature of our skin. It's not as simple as saying 'body chemistry'. Warmth of our skin is critical. Some people have more pores per centimetre than others, or more layers of fat in their skin. We are all created equal until we use fragrance!!
How does climate affect fragrance?
Winter tones down scent; in cold weather the fragrance molecules 'lift' more slowly and the top, heart and base notes develop more gradually
I'm on a diet and I've found I need to apply more fragrance, why?
If you're on a low-fat diet, the oil levels in your skin tend to be lower so you may find that your fragrance does not seem to last as long
I'm on antibiotics, is it true they can change my fragrance?
Yes, firstly because many antibiotics change the smell of your skin. Secondly, because their action decimates the bacteria on your skin, which usually blends with your skin’s oils to produce a fragrance that is distinctively 'you'.
Why doesn't the fragrance last on me but it does on my friends?
The acidity of your skin is a possible culprit. Try licking your wrist. Does it have a sharp, tangy taste? If so that's a sure sign of acid. And the more acidic your skin, the more it will tend to throw off perfume. The solution? Put an emollient layer, such as the LIGHT & DARK Original Touch Up Solid (£14.50/15ml), between your skin and your perfume. You can also try layering your fragrance to extend its life. Use a fragrance-free body lotion or creme, or one that matches the fragrance, to slow down the rate of evaporation and double the life of your fragrance. Try the LIGHT & DARK Original Hydrating Body Wash (£11/100ml) as a base.