There are so many different perfumes on the market, that it is no wonder we often have a difficult time finding the perfect one. If you have ever been on a “smelling spree” at a local department store, you probably learned that sniffing more than three different perfumes at one time can lead to a headache the size of Manhattan!

Consequently, finding the perfect scent means putting aside an afternoon just for the occasion. It should be the one and only goal for the shopping trip. With that in mind, do not wear your usual perfume on the day you are planning to find a new scent. Wearing another perfume will only interfere with your sense of smell, and ultimately your decision.

When you arrive at the perfume counter of your choice, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Also, you should approach the counter with some idea of what you like and what you dislike. For instance, you should know your preference for either citrus, musk, patchouli, or floral scents. Communicating your likes and dislikes will help the salesperson narrow down your choices.

As you begin testing scents, you will need to take a break after three or four scents. The salesperson should offer you some coffee beans to sniff (they neutralize the effects of the perfumes), but if this isn’t an option, walk a way for about five minutes and then come back to the counter.

As you begin to find fragrances you like, you will be able to narrow down your choices to two or three. You should spray each perfume on to a different part of your body. Your pulse points are the perfect spots. Let each scent work with your own natural oils for about twenty minutes. Then you will be able to make the perfect choice.

Below are some tips and hints to help you after you’ve found your perfect scent:

• Fragrance, like heat, rises. Apply your fragrance from the bottom up.

• A great way to make your fragrance last is to spray it in your hair.

• Fragrance lingers longer in the summer months.

• If you accidentally spray too much perfume, apply some soap to the spot.

• To extend the length of your scent, layer it with its lotion, soap, and bath gel counterparts.

• Fragrances last longer in cool, dark places.

• An opened, well stored fragrance should retain its true fragrance for up to two years.

• An unopened, well stored fragrance can last up to eight years.

• Save perfumes that you have not completely finished. To change your scent try layering the old scent with the new.

• If you’d like to visit a fragrance counter that has salespeople who have been certified by the Fragrance Foundation, try Nordstrom’s. They have a great one in the Dallas Galleria.