Perfumes are known to evoke strong memories and transport you to a specific moment or remind you of a certain someone. But as they say, ‘all good things must come to an end.’ perfume too comes with an expiry date. Yes! We’re aware that there’s a common misconception about perfumes and fragrances that they don't expire. But sorry to burst that bubble, as perfumes do expire. Most perfumes don’t have their expiry date mentioned on the packaging, but they can still expire, and the exact time depends on several factors.
On some occasions, you must have noticed that the color of your perfume has slightly changed over time, or its scent appears to be a little different. These are some of the first signs that your perfume may have gone bad. And using an expired fragrance can cause skin irritation and leave you with an unpleasant olfactory experience. So, to understand the lifespan of your favorite perfume, you must learn to recognise the signs.
How Long Can Perfume Last?
The longevity of a perfume’s life depends on several factors like composition, storage conditions, and concentration. For example, EDPs (Eau de Parfum) are made up of higher concentrations of fragrance oils, so they tend to last longer. Besides, the art of perfumery depends on the delicate balance between fragrance oils, alcohol, and water.
Over time these ingredients can break down which can lead to a change in their scent. So, on average, a perfume can easily last for three to five years, that is, if stored properly.
Your perfume's shelf life depends heavily on its storage conditions. If exposed to heat, light, or air, its scent tends to deteriorate quickly. Hence, whenever you purchase a perfume bottle, you’ll find clear instructions on its packaging to store it in a cool and dark place away from sunlight.
Signs That Your Perfume Has Gone Bad
Now, let’s talk about how you can easily recognise that your favorite perfume bottle may have expired.
1. Change in Scent
One of the first and easiest to-spot signs is when you notice a subtle change in its usual fragrance. Every perfume is mindfully created by balancing different notes, and when these notes start to disappear or just change, it’s a clear sign that the perfume is losing its original scent. For example, if your favorite floral perfume, suddenly starts to smell sour or musty, it’s clear that the fragrance oils have broken down and it might time for you to lose that perfume.
2. Color Alteration
Did you know that your perfume can change color over time? Yes! When the ingredients start to oxidize, your once-clear perfume can turn yello, brown or even cloudy. As some perfumes contain natural ingredients like citrus or floral oils, they are prone to oxidation. While a change in color does not always mean that you must stop using that perfume, it’s an indicator that the perfume is on its way to expiry.
3.Altered Texture or Consistency
If your perfume appears thicker or more oily than usual, that’s yet another sign that the perfume has expired. Since most perfumes contain alcohol, it tends to evaporate over time, if not stored properly. That leaves behind a more concentrated solution of fragrance oils and a change in its texture can affect how the scent feels on your skin and might not absorb as well as it once did.
Perfumery is a work of art, which requires the right balance of ingredients that create an olfactory masterpiece. And just like any art piece requires some love and care; perfume needs those too. So, to make sure that your favourite perfume does not lose its original scent, make sure that you give it all the TLC.
