While both belong to a similar category, it’s important to understand the difference between perfumes and deodorants. The key difference is that perfumes are a fragrant liquid designed to provide a pleasant scent, while deodorant is formulated to neutralise or mask body odour. While both are fragrant personal care products, they cannot and should not be used interchangeably. Why? Let's look at some facts below.
Perfume vs deodorants
While some perfumes may have deodorizing properties, they are not designed to be used as the main defense for controlling body odor. Deodorants, on the other hand, are specifically formulated to destroy or mask the odour-causing bacteria that naturally occur on the skin. Additionally, many deodorants also contain antiperspirant ingredients like Aluminium chloride and propantheline bromide that help to reduce sweating, which can also contribute to body odor. The difference between the two really kicks in while better understanding the ‘when’ and ‘how’ of the two.
When to apply deodorant:
After showering or bathing: Apply deodorant to clean and dry underarms for maximum effectiveness in controlling body odour throughout the day.
In the morning: Apply deodorant as part of your daily grooming routine to start the day feeling fresh and confident.
Before physical activities: If you're planning to exercise or engage in any physical activity, apply deodorant to minimise sweat and odour at least 30 minute prior to starting a workout.
If you're prone to sweating: If you know you tend to sweat more during the day, consider reapplying deodorant for extra protection.
When to apply perfume:
After showering or bathing: Apply perfume to clean, dry skin for better absorption and longevity of the fragrance.
Before dressing: Apply perfume to pulse points like wrists, neck, and behind the ears before putting on clothes to avoid staining delicate fabrics.
For special occasions or events: Perfume is especially appropriate for special occasions, parties, or formal gatherings to leave a lasting impression.
In moderate amounts: Be mindful not to overapply perfume, as a little goes a long way. A couple of sprays or dabbing on pulse points is usually sufficient
Tira’s top picks of perfumes and deos
1. Versace Bright Crystal Eau De Toilette
Formulation: The Versace Bright Crystal is known for its fresh and vibrant floral-fruity scent. It typically contains notes of yuzu, peony, magnolia, lotus, and amber.
The fragrance is bright, youthful, and long-lasting, making it a popular choice for spring and summer wear. It exudes a sense of femininity and elegance for a great daily scent.
2. Marc Jacobs Daisy Love Eau De Toilette for Women
Formulation: Daisy Love is a sweet and radiant floral-fruity fragrance, featuring notes of cloudberries, daisy tree petals, cashmere musks, and driftwood.
This scent is youthful, playful, and perfect for casual and daytime wear. It has decent longevity, and the sweet notes make it a head-turner.
3. Chloe Love Story Eau De Parfum Spray
Formulation: Love Story is a sophisticated and romantic floral fragrance, typically composed of neroli, orange blossom, stephanotis, and cedarwood. It is as romantic as it smells.
The scent exudes a blend of freshness and sensuality, making it suitable for both daytime and evening wear. Its longevity is fairly good, leaving a lovely impression.
4. Paco Rabanne Pure XS for Her Deodorant Spray
Formulation: This deodorant spray complements the Pure XS for Her fragrance. It contains notes of ylang-ylang, vanilla, and popcorn, making it a delicious classic.
The deodorant spray helps to keep you feeling fresh and confident throughout the day while subtly enhancing the scent of the Pure XS fragrance.
5. Dolce & Gabbana Dolce EDP
Formulation: Dolce is a soft and feminine floral fragrance featuring notes of neroli, water lily, and white amaryllis.
It is elegant and sophisticated, with fine longevity. It is well-suited for both daytime and evening wear, projecting a sense of graceful charm.