Perfume oils are the most concentrated way to wear a scent. One or two drops are enough – provided you apply them correctly. Here's how perfume oil differs from a spray, how to use it and which forms you'll find at Baycan Luxury.
What is perfume oil?
In a classic eau de parfum, the aromatic compounds are dissolved in alcohol. In a perfume oil, the carrier is an oil – the scent is usually very concentrated and stays close to the skin. Perfume oils are dabbed on or applied with a roller, not sprayed. Our guide Extrait, Eau de Parfum or Eau de Toilette? explains what the different concentrations mean.
Christopher Hanlon: perfume concentrates from Sydney
Christopher Hanlon offers its scents as perfume concentrate (extrait de parfum) – for example Silver Penny, the house's first scent from 1994, or the opulent Black Jasmine Rose. Many of the brand's sets also include concentrate rollerballs, for example the Bespoke Archive Perfume Gift Set – ideal on the go.
Oriental perfume oils
In the Middle East, alcohol-free perfume oils have a long tradition:
- Karamat perfume oils in 3, 6 and 8 ml – for example Sultan, Musc Love or Blue Musk.
- Perfume elixirs such as Dehn Al Oud or Musc Noir – especially concentrated.
- Maison Maïssa Pure Oil – alcohol-free perfume oils from France, such as Pure Oil Oud Sakura or Pure Oil Musc Rebelle.
How to apply perfume oil
- On moisturised skin: lightly moisturised skin holds scent longer than dry skin.
- Choose pulse points: wrists, neck, behind the ears and inner elbows – the skin is warm here and the scent unfolds.
- Dab, don't rub: dab or roll on the oil. Rubbing changes the notes unnecessarily fast.
- Use sparingly: one or two drops per spot are enough.
- Top up: small bottles fit in any bag – ideal for refreshing during the day.
Tips from the Orient
- On fabrics: traditionally, perfume oil is also dabbed onto scarves or clothing. Test light or delicate fabrics on a discreet spot first.
- Combine with bakhoor: wafting bakhoor smoke through your clothes as well gives an especially rich scent – more in our bakhoor guide.
FAQ
Is perfume oil stronger than eau de parfum?
Perfume oils are usually more concentrated but stay closer to the skin. They feel intense to you and more discreet to others.
How long does a perfume oil last?
That depends on the scent, your skin and the notes. Heavy base notes such as oud, amber or musk usually last longer.
Can I combine perfume oil and spray?
Yes – read our guide to fragrance layering.
