How to get the most from your fragrance
We share Abel founder Frances Shoemack’s five tips for getting the very best out of your fragrance:
1. Apply to warmth, not just skin.
Fragrance diffuses more readily at warmer points of the body where blood flow sits close to the surface, such as the wrists, neck and behind the ears. Our reformulated Eau de Parfums have a 37% higher parfum concentration, so one or two sprays is enough. Try Cyan Nori on the neck for a bright, briny lift that projects beautifully, or Green Cedar on the chest where its woods can slowly radiate throughout the day.
2. Hydration equals longevity.
Fragrance binds to oils, which is why moisturised skin holds scent longer than dry skin. Apply an unscented cream first to create a lipid layer for the fragrance molecules to cling to. This is particularly effective with resinous or ambery bases such as The Apartment or Coat Check, which anchor into the skin and evolve over hours.
3. Use hair for a softer sillage.
Hair is more porous than skin and contains less sweat and sebum, meaning scent can last longer and diffuse more gently as you move. Because Abel uses non-denatured alcohol and 100% natural ingredients, our Eau de Parfums can be lightly misted through the lengths of the hair. I love Laundry Day in the hair for a clean, fresh halo, paired with something deeper on the skin.
4. Think about volatility and structure.
Top notes like citrus and herbs are made up of smaller, more volatile molecules that evaporate faster, while woods, resins and balsams are heavier and linger. If you want an immediate mood lift, reach for a bright composition like Laundry Day in the morning. For something grounding and long-lasting, lean into base-driven scents like Green Cedar or the myrrh and Tolu balsam in The Apartment.
5. Store like a fine wine.
Heat, light and humidity accelerate oxidation, particularly in natural formulas rich in essential oils and plant isolates. Keep your bottles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, ideally in their box. Treated well, a natural perfume will maintain its integrity and character, allowing the full architecture of the scent to shine.
