The Only Perfume Hack You Need For A Long-Lasting Scent

You mist your wrists, collarbones, and maybe even your hair. By noon, the scent has vanished, as though it were never there. The perfume industry would likely have you believe the solution is to go out and buy another bottle. But there's a nifty little life hack to combat this perfume mistake you're probably making, that will stop your money from vanishing as fast as your fragrance.

Dr. Teresa Song is a board-certified dermatologist at Marmur Medical — a leading skin clinic in New York City. Speaking to Women, she reveals that the secret to long-lasting sillage lies not in the aroma itself, but in how you apply it. Scented success starts before you spritz, and a little preparation makes all the difference. Song confirms that applying a thin layer of Vaseline before spraying your perfume can extend its wear. She explains, "This is because Vaseline works as an occlusive barrier that locks in moisture, which slows down the absorption and evaporation of the perfume oils, allowing it to stay longer on the skin." Insider knowledge from the noses themselves, this quick and barely noticeable step will ensure the scent of your expensive perfume actually sticks around.

Vaseline is something of an all-purpose miracle worker. Of course, its obvious uses include soothing chapped lips and hydrating skin, but it also moonlights as a natural makeup remover and even helps protect your nails. If you're all about skincare, it should take up space in your beauty routine. When it comes to enhancing the longevity of your aroma, Dr. Teresa Song has tips on how to use Vaseline as a base layer before applying perfume.

"First, apply a small amount of Vaseline to your wrists, neck, and behind ears," she advises. Dab it in but be careful not to rub it in completely. Then, "spritz perfume on top of the Vaseline-covered areas," and let it dry naturally without rubbing it in. This tip requires minimal effort and yields maximum results, which is why it has long been favored by nose experts. It's an easy step to incorporate into your beauty routine and maintain olfactory goodness all day long.