‘Niche’ is the name given to perfumes which are often interesting, unusual, special, difficult to find – and sometimes pricey, too. There has been a huge rise in ‘niche’ perfumery, in the past few years, with many fascinating new names appearing on the fragrance scene. They all work with the same ‘palette’ of fragrance ingredients, but often the niche perfumers try daring combinations, or are inspired by very personal events and experiences. All fragrances tell a story, and exploring ‘niche’ perfumes can be a great way to learn about the olfactory universe.

These descriptions are used to identify the strength or concentration of oil in a fragrance. The concentrations can vary from fragrance to fragrance but here is an average guide. In general, the higher the percentage, the higher the price – but be aware that different concentrations (Perfume, or Eau de Toilette, etc.) may also have different notes in them, and not simply be weaker or stronger. So when you like a fragrance, we suggest you explore its different concentrations.

• Extract/solid perfume – 20-30%
• Perfume – 15-25 %
• Eau de Parfum (EDP) – 8-15%
• Eau de Toilette (EDT) – 4-8%
• Cologne (EDC) – 2-4%
• After Shave – 2-4%
• Soap – 2-4%
• Body cream/lotion – 3-4%
• Perfumed candle – 10%

• 100 ml = 3.3 or 3.4 oz (depending on brand)
• 50 ml = 1.7 oz
• 30 ml = 1 oz
• 15 ml = 1/2 oz
• 10 ml = 1/3 oz
• 7.5 ml = 1/4 oz
• 5 ml = 1/6 oz

3.7 ml = 1/8 oz = 1 dram

If you find yourself asking "Why doesn't my perfume last?" the answer may be in your skin. People with dry skin usually find their perfume or fragrance fading faster than those with oily skin because oily skin has more natural moisture to hold in the fragrance.

PH levels (amount of acidity in our skin) vary slightly from person to person. Our individual levels of PH will determine how each ingredient in a fragrance will react and last.

Fragrance holding time can also be affected by the concentration of the scent. Those with higher concentrations will retain their aroma much longer.