An easy guideline to DIY fragrances

If you're a fragrance buff, psychology is on you side, as they solidify human attraction. Learn to make your own DIY scent with these easy tips.

• Fragrances have played an important role in human attraction for thousands of years.
• On special occasions, the ancient Egyptians would wear cones of scent on their heads that melted in the heat, exuding exotic aromas.
• Today, men and women are still seduced by fragrant mixtures of flowers, fruits, woods and spices. Succulent fragrances stimulate your mind.
• You'll feel refreshed and revitalized when you apply any of these traditional formulas. Smells sway emotions, modify perception and are the ultimate wake-up call for your senses.

• Mix together about 50 millilitres (1/4 cup) of vodka, five millilitres (one teaspoon) of distilled water and about 25 drops of the essential oil of your choice, and shake vigorously. The resulting fragrance is immediately ready to be enjoyed.
• Sandalwood and cedar are favourites for masculine scent mixtures. For a flowery aroma, use patchouli, geranium or lavender oil. Opt for orange or bergamot oil to obtain a charming fresh scent, and use violet or rose oil to achieve heavy, sensual notes.
• Oxygen, heat and light destroy fragrances. Keep homemade perfume in a tightly-sealed bottle in a cool, dark location (like in a drawer), and it'll last around three months.

What you need:

• 15 ml (1 tbsp) vodka (40%)
• 10 drops chamomile oil
• 10 drops geranium oil
• 10 drops clary sage oil
• 10 drops bergamot oil
• 10 drops neroli oil
• 5 drops coriander oil
• about 100 ml (3½ oz.) witch hazel

Put the vodka and the essential oils into a glass bottle and shake well to dissolve the oils. Add the witch hazel and shake once again. Let steep for a week and shake before each use.

Perfumed handkerchiefs may sound old-fashioned, but it is a tradition that is certainly worth reviving!

• You can make a suitable fragrance by pouring 100 millilitres (3 1/2 ounces) of rubbing alcohol over 10 cloves, two cinnamon sticks, 20 grams (2/3 ounces) of violet root and 20 grams (2/3 ounces) sandalwood in a sealable container.
• Let the mixture steep for two weeks, shaking occasionally, then strain and mix with 100 millilitres (3 1/2 ounces) of rose water. Sprinkle just a few drops onto a handkerchief as needed.

Consider these guidelines when using fragrances.

• In contrast to heavy evening perfumes, the subtle aroma of less intense fragrances are suitable on your body from head to toe.
• Never use too much perfume, or the scent will become overpowering. A couple of drops from a vial or two to three squirts from a pump bottle are perfectly adequate.
• In order to make the most of a scent, apply perfume to clean skin.