Perfume is best applied to pulse points: the inner wrists, behind the ears, and lower neck. Spray a little on your hair from arm's length, and the scent will float into the air every time you move your head.

If you are unable to smell a scent on yourself half an hour after spraying, this is a good indication that it suits you.

Different types of scent

It's easy to be confused about all the different types of perfume on offer. Perfumes are essential oils that are diluted with up to 78 to 95 per cent denatured ethyl alcohol and the strength of the scent varies with the percentage of the dilution. Fragrances are sold in different strengths - perfume, Eau de Parfum and Eau de Toilette - and prices differ accordingly.

Perfume is made up of about 22 per cent essential oils, is the most expensive scent and is great for special occasions. Eau de Parfum lasts for five to seven hours and is perfect for a day to night event, while Eau de Toilette is the least expensive version (consisting of eight to ten percent essential oils) and lasts for four to six hours. Male fragrances or Eau de Colognes are much lighter than perfumes and only consist of four per cent essential oils.

How long do perfumes last?

Once opened, fragrances only have a shelf life of a year at the most. After this, the alcohol evaporates leaving behind a vapid liquid. If it's not stored in a dark, cool place this process is even quicker.

Visit www.halfpriceperfumes.co.uk for offers on leading brands including Lancome, Yves Saint Laurent, Elizabeth Arden and Givenchy, with discounts of up to 70 per cent.

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Choosing the perfect perfume

Different types of scent

How long do perfumes last?