Photo credit: www.vogue.com
French women have gained a reputation as icons in the fashion and beauty industry, particularly when it comes to fragrances. While the origins of perfume trace back to ancient Egypt, it was France that pioneered its mass production for a worldwide audience, establishing a lasting legacy.
The recent popularity of hair perfumes further exemplifies France’s leadership in fragrance innovation. As noted by IMARC, the market for body and hair mists is projected to grow over 6% by 2032. This growth is attributed primarily to the functional benefits offered by hair fragrances, which often include moisturizing and shining properties, but there’s likely more to the story.
Secrets of French Fragrances
For years, French women have been either using their traditional perfumes on their hair or opting for specific hair fragrances. Renowned perfumer Francis Kurkdjian highlights that many French women keep their fragrance choices secret, viewing their preferred scents as an essential aspect of their allure.
Hints about these fragrant rituals occasionally surface, as seen when French style icon Jeanne Damas shared her preference for applying perfume to her neck and hair before going out, enhancing the olfactory experience for those nearby. Lolita Lempicka, the designer behind her namesake fragrance, echoed this sentiment, explaining that hair perfume offers longevity and a sensory connection during intimate moments.
Long-lasting Fragrance
Applying perfume to hair indeed results in a longer-lasting scent. This has been supported by brands like Givenchy, which provide their acclaimed fragrances in hair mist formulations. A representative from Givenchy noted that the scent clings to hair more effectively than skin, absorbing and retaining odors effectively. Additionally, hair perfume helps to neutralize unwelcome smells—such as those from smoke or food.
Despite its rising popularity, hair perfumes are not yet a common go-to for consumers. According to Givenchy, users appreciate the product for its multifunctional benefits, often favoring it over creams or deodorants due to its dual purpose of scenting and conditioning the hair.
Application Tips
Parisian hairstylist David Mallet pointed out that French women prefer their scents to be sophisticated rather than overly sweet or synthetic. To achieve this signature fragrance, experts from Givenchy recommend a specific application technique: spritzing hair perfume from at least 10 inches away to prevent dampness and residue. This technique is essential for achieving a lasting fragrance that mirrors the charm associated with French women’s approach to scent.
Source
www.vogue.com