We’ll set the scene: You’re shopping for a fragrance–either for yourself or someone else—and suddenly you aren’t sure what type to get. And we don’t just mean when it comes to the variety of scents. From eau de parfum to body mist to cologne, there are more categories than you may have realized. So is there actually a difference between body mist and perfume? Spoiler: yes, and it’s a pretty big one.
In short: The different fragrance categories help distinguish between the perfume oils' concentrations, alcohol and water content, and how long the scent lasts. So which one is right for you? Keep reading to find out everything to know about body mist vs. perfume.
What Is a Body Mist?
Most body mists (or body sprays) have a lighter concentration of fragrance oils compared to perfumes. This characteristic gives you more control over how strong the scent is; for example, when you use one of our perfume mists, like our cult classic warm gourmand Cheirosa 62™, you can spritz it from head to toe and without it becoming overpowering. We also like to keep a perfume mist on hand in different rooms and at our desks for a refresh as needed. They can also be sprayed onto the hair, and even clothing too.
So why use a perfume mist over a traditional perfume? First off, they’re a great choice if you’re looking for a less intense version of your favorite scent. Plus, our perfume mists feature sophisticated fragrances—case in point, Cheirosa 71 has notes of caramelized vanilla drizzled over toasted macadamia nut and rich tonka bean, while Cheirosa 68 opens with energizing pink dragon fruit, while Brazilian jasmine and sheer vanilla mingle with ocean air. In other words: These aren’t the body sprays you grew up with—they’re sophisticated, complex, and perfect for layering, too.
How to Use Body Mist
Like a regular perfume, you should apply your perfume mist directly to the skin to make it last the longest. We recommend spritzing it on right after you get out of the shower or bath—the warmth of your skin will give the scent even more longevity.
Even better, you can pair your perfume mist with the body cream in the same fragrance. For example, pair the Bom Dia Bright™ Body Cream with the Cheirosa 40 Perfume Mist—not only will you moisturize your skin, but you’ll get an extra layer of the vanilla woods, black amber plum, and jasmine blooms scent in the process.
What Is Perfume?
Perfume has a higher concentration of fragrance oil than body mists, with less water and alcohol content. This is the key difference between perfume and body mist, and means the formula is both stronger and longer-lasting. It also usually creates a stronger sillage, a.k.a. scent trail.
Perfumes can further be broken down into two categories: eau de parfum and eau de toilette, with the former being more concentrated—and therefore longer-lasting—than the latter. For fans of our Cheirosa 62™, the Sol Cheirosa 62 eau de parfum is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the iconic fragrance with even more longevity.
How to Use Perfume
It may seem simple enough to spray on your favorite scent, but there are ways to get the most out of your eau de parfum. Here’s what we recommend:
- Focus on your pulse points: Ever wonder why people spray perfume on their wrists and neck? Because the warmth radiates the scent better. Avoid spraying into the air and walking through, which can disperse it unevenly.
- Spritz your hairbrush: If you want your hair to smell like your perfume, try this method rather than spraying directly on your hair, which can be drying.
- Spray on your clothes from afar: If you want to spray your clothes, do so from several feet away rather than up close, which may stain or end up too concentrated in one area.
- Store in a cool, dark, and dry place: It may be tempting to show off a beautiful bottle by the window, but humidity and light can actually alter the chemistry of your perfume. Instead, keep it in a vanity or closet to protect its integrity.
When to Use Perfume vs. Body Mist
Ultimately, the decision about whether to wear body mist or perfume comes down to what scent you like and how long you want your fragrance to last. How you’re spending your day could affect your choice too; if you’ll be out and about and won’t have your fragrance with you, a stronger perfume may be the right choice so it doesn’t fade. On the other hand, perfume mist is ideal when you know you’ll want to refresh your scent every few hours. Perfume mists are also great for spritzing on post-shower, especially if you have the corresponding body wash and body cream to enhance the scent experience.
Can I Use Body Mist and Perfume Together?
You do you! The lighter nature of our perfume mists means they can complement and enhance the stronger notes of another perfume without overpowering it. Just make sure to choose scents that pair nicely together, or stick to one fragrance family to avoid clashing. For example, our caramel-and-pistachio Sol Cheirosa 62™ eau de parfum layers gorgeously with our mood-boosting Cheirosa 59 perfume mist, as both have notes of sandalwood and vanilla. Think of it as perfume math—don’t worry, it’s surprisingly fun.
That’s the 411 on mist vs. perfume! Whether you’re looking for a body mist, perfume, or both, we can help. Take our Find Your Fragrance quiz here.
