Fragrance 101: Learning The Difference Between Body Mist And Perfume

Have you ever walked over to the fragrance aisle and stood there, looking confused and overwhelmed, asking yourself what to get, a body mist or a perfume? Well, you are not alone. Many people (like you and me) have wondered what the real difference between a body mist and a perfume is and why one chooses between the two.

Now that all fragrance connoisseurs have left the chat, it’s for us aroma amateurs to delve into the differences with respect to aromatic compounds, strength, intensity, purpose, and occasion before we get to choose the one for us.

Without further ado, let’s break down the key differences between body mist and perfume, along with my top three picks that you must try.

What Is A Body Mist?

A body mist is a lighter, less flagrant aromatic accessory. Although it contains the same essential oils and aromatics, the concentration is what sets it apart from perfumes. It is more subtle, light, and refreshing which is ideal for everyday use. Body mists also have a higher water content making it hydrating for the skin, but since the concentration of the aromatics is lesser, body mists tend to wear out faster.

These are my top three body mists:

When Should You Apply Body Mist?

The best time to wear a body mist is right out of the shower when your pores are recently unclogged and cleansed. It helps the mist settle on your skin and lets the fragrance cling to you a little longer. When your skin is damp, it ensures that the skin fulfils its hydration needs without evaporating the mist. It is also ideal to wear the mist on your skin and not your clothes because the water, oil, and alcohol can stain your clothes ruining them for further use.

Where Should You Apply Body Mist?

The most important place you need to apply a body mist is your skin, especially on your pulse points. The pulse points are your wrists, the side of your neck, your inner elbows, the back your knees, and your behind your ears. Other than this, you can also apply your body mist on your hair as well, since it is less on aromatic oils, it won’t make your hair look greasy. Additionally, you can also put some mist on your pillow covers, curtains, and drapes to make your home smell beautifully like you.

What Is A Perfume?

A perfume, unlike a body mist, is heavier and formulated with more aromatic compounds. A body mist may only have around 2–4% perfume oils, but perfume can have up to 40% aromatic compounds. A perfume has different levels of fragrance concentrations that make it a different product, from Eau De Cologne to Eau De Parfum you can find perfumes of the same family but with a different concentration. Perfumes are also more complex with top, middle, and base notes that offer a different olfactory experience as the perfume evaporates. It is also stronger and thus lasts longer.

These are my top three perfumes:

When Should You Apply Perfume?

The best time to apply perfume is in the morning, especially right after a shower. When you are freshly out of the shower, your pores are open and clean, and applying perfume ensures a long-lasting fragrance. You should also moisturise your skin for better hydration, ideally, a body lotion or moisturiser works, but you can also apply some Vaseline on your pulse points before you spritz the perfume to make it linger all day.

Where Should You Apply Perfume?

Similar to a body mist, you should apply it to your pulse points – your wrist, neck, back of the ears, inner elbows, and the back of the knee. But unlike a body mist, you should refrain from spritzing a perfume on your hair, since the alcohol and perfume oils can damage your hair, instead, you should opt for a hair perfume that is better formulated to suit the chemistry of your hair. You shouldn’t put perfume on clothes on your other linen, instead, apply some on a handkerchief and place it in your linen drawers for the fragrance to spread and catch on to your clothes and sheets.

Difference Between Body Mist And Perfume

Although the intent of applying a body mist and perfume is the same, there are a few differences that we need to be aware of before investing in one.

1. Concentration: Body mists are low on perfume concentration, body mists generally only have 2–4 % aromatic compounds whereas, an Eau De Parfum can have up to 40% of the perfume oils that give it the beautiful scent
2. Complexity: Perfumes usually are made of multiple fragrances and notes giving them top, middle, and base notes. All these notes are slightly different and they work together to create a complex note that offers a versatile experience. Body mists on the other hand have a very unidirectional fragrance profile and usually stick to one fragrance family.
3. Strength: Since perfumes have a higher concentration, they are stronger in nature, which means they last longer and offer a heavier scent. Body mists are lighter, more fresh, and offer a refreshing scent.
4. Occasion: Body mists are a more day fragrance option and perfumes are a more evening gala affair. Body mists are light and perfect for a day out or for work when you need that subtle fragrance without making a statement. Perfumes are better worn when you are trying to make yourself known, like networking events, festive occasions, and other important functions.
5. Application: You can apply body mist to your skin, hair, and even clothes and linen, but perfumes should also be applied to your pulse points on the skin. The concentration can make your hair heavy and clothes stained.

Parting Thoughts

Now that you know the difference between a body mist and a perfume you can choose your scent wisely. Whether you are looking for a short-term fragrance that offers a refreshing feel or a long-lasting scent that makes you feel sultry and ready to face the world, then choose a body mist and a perfume respectively.

FAQs

1. How long does body mist last compared to perfume?

   A body mist lasts up to 2–4 hours when applied the right way, but a good perfume can last the whole day.

2. Can I use body mist and perfume together?

   Yes, you can use perfume and a body mist together, but it is important to choose both scents from the same fragrance profile to not create a foul smell. Make sure to apply the perfume first since it’s heavier, followed by the body mist.

3. Is body mist suitable for everyday use?

   Yes, since body mists have a lower aromatic concentration and more water in the formulation, it is suitable for all skin types for everyday use. It’s not strong and thus perfect for everyday use.

4. Are body mists or perfumes more affordable?

   Depending on the brand, niche ingredients, and fragrance profile, body mists and perfumes are available at a wide range of prices, while some are expensive, there are also affordable options available.