It is common for perfume brands to sell their fragrances in full-sized bottles, which are usually packaged in aesthetically pleasing and sturdy boxes. However, in the Vietnamese perfume market, there is also the option of purchasing “perfume concentrates” – smaller, 5-10ml tubes or vials containing the concentrated scent, decanted from larger bottles. Due to their unlabeled and simplified packaging, these concentrates are often mistaken for black-market goods.
So, should you consider using perfume concentrates, and do they truly offer a quality experience?
Characteristics of Perfume Concentrates
Contrary to popular belief, perfume concentrates originate from genuine, branded perfumes. The only difference lies in their volume – these concentrates typically hold one-tenth of the amount found in a full-sized bottle. The perfume is transferred from the larger bottle into smaller vials or tubes using various tools such as funnels, syringes, or the spray mechanism itself.
One advantage of perfume concentrates is their portability. The smaller tubes are convenient to carry around, taking up minimal space in handbags. Additionally, their affordability allows users to experiment with multiple fragrances without breaking the bank, enabling them to switch up their scents regularly and match their perfumes to different occasions or outfits.
Perfume concentrates are perfect for travel, taking up minimal space in your luggage.
However, the simplified packaging and lack of labeling on these mini vials can make them less aesthetically pleasing than their full-sized counterparts. It can also be challenging to differentiate between different fragrances, as the tubes often look identical. Additionally, the source of these concentrates is crucial – purchasing from unreliable suppliers may result in fake products, inaccurate volumes, or poor-quality tubes that leak or have faulty spray mechanisms. Furthermore, users should be cautious about proper storage, as exposing the perfume to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight can cause evaporation and degrade the quality of the fragrance.
Simple Perfume Decanting Methods
Although it may sound complicated, decanting perfume is a straightforward process that can be done at home. All you need are suitable containers to transfer your perfume into smaller vials for portability or to share with friends and family. Here are two common methods for decanting perfume:
There are two popular methods for decanting perfume: direct pouring and using a syringe.
Direct Pouring Method:
Position the spray nozzle of the large perfume bottle perpendicular to the opening of the small vial. Hold both containers steady to avoid spillage. Once aligned, quickly press down on the spray nozzle to fill the small vial, and cap it immediately afterward to prevent evaporation.
Syringe Method (without the needle):
– Start by unscrewing the cap of the large perfume bottle counterclockwise. Take the prepared syringe and insert the tip into the spray nozzle of the perfume bottle.
– Hold the syringe vertically and ensure that no external air enters the mechanism to maintain the quality of the perfume.
– Gently pull the syringe plunger upward to draw the perfume into the syringe, then push it into the small vial. Repeat this process until the vial is filled.
Note: When decanting perfume, be cautious and meticulous in your technique. It is advisable to perform the process in a closed room with the fan and air conditioning turned off to prevent evaporation and the loss of precious perfume.
