How to make your fragrance actually last

Longevity is usually blamed on the fragrance. Often it's the application. A few small changes buy you hours.

Spray onto moisturised skin

Dry skin has nothing for the oils to hold onto. An unscented moisturiser or a thin layer of balm on your pulse points before spraying is the single biggest upgrade you can make.

Stop rubbing your wrists together

The friction and heat break down the top notes — the bright opening you paid for — and push the scent into its base faster. Spray and let it dry on its own.

Use fabric as an anchor

Skin metabolises fragrance; fabric doesn't. One spray on a collar, scarf, or the inside of a jacket will still be there at the end of the day when your wrists have gone quiet.

Match the family to the expectation

• Fresh and citrus: bright but fast. Expect to reapply once mid-day.
• Floral: moderate. Lasts well in cool weather, fades faster in heat.
• Woody, amber, gourmand: the long haul. Go lighter than you think — two sprays is often enough.

Respray without guilt

Because a LIVETH bottle is affordable, touching up in the afternoon doesn't feel like burning money. Use it up. That's what it's for.