Perfume
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
Shop more fragrance
Accent Your Aroma With Perfume
Make a memorable impression when you wear a fragrant perfume. Discover fragrances for every occasion at CVS, from flirty scents for date nights to light, fresh aromas for errands or the gym.
Do Perfumes Expire?
Over time, you may notice your favorite perfume smells different. The smell may become less intense, or you may find a sour scent emanating from the bottle. Your fragrance may also smell metallic or become discolored, such as turning yellow or brown. Oxidation, which is when oxygen changes the molecules in your fragrance, can trigger these changes.
You may notice some bottles in your perfume collection don't have expiration dates. However, that doesn't mean your fragrances are good forever. Generally, you can expect your favorite perfumes to last anywhere from 1-3 years before they expire. However, perfume may expire sooner if kept in a hot or bright area, as these environments can make fragrance molecules break down. If you want to extend the life of your fragrances, consider keeping the bottles in dark, cool areas. Also, keep the bottles closed to help stop oxygen from damaging your signature scent.
Does Perfume Have Alcohol in It?
Many perfumes contain alcohol, as alcohol can help extend the life of your fragrances. However, some brands offer water-based fragrances. Non-alcoholic fragrances may not last as long as alcohol-based versions, but you may find they're a good fit for sensitive skin.
If you want a scent without alcohol, consider looking for body lotions and moisturizers without this ingredient. You may also find that essential oils and other aromatherapy essentials meet your needs.
How Long Does Perfume Last?
Perfume typically lasts for a few hours once it hits your skin, so you may want to keep a bottle in your purse to reapply your signature scent as needed. Consider layering your perfume over a perfume oil or body lotion that complements the fragrance. This helps give your perfume more staying power, so you can enjoy your favorite scent throughout the day. You can also look for shampoo and conditioner with scents you prefer, so you can smell fresh after the scent of your body spray or perfume fades.