Have you ever tried applying different perfumes to create a one-of-a-kind scent? That’s what fragrance layering is all about, and it’s a huge hit with beauty lovers. Here’s how it works.

What is it?

Originally developed in the Middle East, fragrance layering is a technique that consists of combining several fragrant products or perfumes at the same time. The goal is to create your own personal scent.

Who’s it for?

People who want a scent that’s all their own.

How can I avoid clashing notes?

To deftly mix your fragrances and strike the perfect balance, follow these recommendations closely:

• As a general rule, you can layer a wide range of fragrant products, such as eaux de toilette, eaux de parfum, fragrant waters, scented creams, shower gels, body lotions, etc.
• Perfumes with very strong scents should be avoided since they may overshadow or mask the other fragrances you’re laying with.
• Basic layering: combine one or more complementary products with a perfume. Make sure you get it right by choosing formulas with notes from the same fragrance family (oriental, woody, etc.). For example, use a rose scented shower gel and cream as a base, then spritz on a floral perfume.
• Intermediate layering: for a more original scent, why not blend a body spray with your favourite fragrance? Sprays are lighter and mix wonderfully with most perfumes, adding a touch of freshness.
• Expert layering: those with lots of experience or who are simply gifted in the art of combining scents can give layering two perfumes a shot. To start, experiment by matching fragrances that have a common ingredient, such as vanilla, coconut, green tea or rose. Then, if you’re feeling more daring, take it to the next level by layering opposing perfumes. That’s right: in the world of fragrances, opposites attract and complement one another!

Winning combinations

Opposing notes:

Spicy + sweet

Fresh + rich

Fruity + floral

Notes in the same fragrance family:

Floral + floral

Woody + woody

Chypre + chypre

Oriental + oriental

Citrus + citrus

Fougere + fougere

Etc.

Worried about your fragrance blending abilities? Don’t fret! Simply visit your Jean Coutu cosmetician, who will be happy to suggest fragrance combinations that will go great together.

Application technique

Applying your fragrances in the right order is essential to achieving a great scent. Start with the heaviest fragrance, and end with the lightest. That way, the first fragrance won’t weigh down the lighter scents that come next.

Where should you apply your perfume? That’s up to you! While your pulse points (neck, wrists, inside of the elbows, etc.) are the traditional places to apply perfume, you can also apply it to other, more original areas. For example, use:

• A rich perfume on your wrists + a scented water on your clothing
• A fruity body lotion on your arms and legs + a floral perfume on your hair

A spicy eau de parfum on your left arm + a sweet eau de parfum on your right arm