For those who detest pungent fragrances, layering is often the answer. It's a strategy that makes sense for individuals with allergies or migraines, as well as those simply who prefer milder scents.
Rare Beauty has taken this approach to heart with its new Layering Balms, £18, which come in four varieties: Woody Oak, Amber Vanilla, Floral Peony Blossom, and Bergamot. These balms are designed to be applied directly to pulse points, creating a subtle foundation that won't overpower the senses. The key is to layer these products with another scent – preferably Rare Beauty's signature fragrance, but feel free to experiment with other brands.
The result is a complex, multi-layered aroma that adds depth and interest without being overwhelming. This approach is particularly appealing for those who want to make a statement without going full-on perfume. By layering two products, you create a watercolour effect – gentler, more nuanced, and kinder on the nose.
Another way to achieve this look is through body mists. Brands like Salt & Stone have mastered the art of creating scents that complement, rather than overpower. Take their Santal & Vetiver Body Mist (£45), which can be layered over a deodorant stick or body lotion for an extended-lasting effect.
For those who prefer to mix and match, Phlur's collection is worth exploring. The brand's eau de parfums, body sprays, and body care products are designed to be mixed and matched, creating unique combinations that won't overwhelm the senses. A standout example is Father Figure Eau de Parfum (£32), which pairs beautifully with Cashmere Skin Hair and Body Mist (£25).
Glossier's You perfume is another masterclass in layering. This musky scent is a standalone showstopper, but it layers seamlessly with just about every product – from creams and lotions to deodorants and perfumes. It's the ultimate polyamorous perfume that will please even the most discerning noses.
Rare Beauty has taken this approach to heart with its new Layering Balms, £18, which come in four varieties: Woody Oak, Amber Vanilla, Floral Peony Blossom, and Bergamot. These balms are designed to be applied directly to pulse points, creating a subtle foundation that won't overpower the senses. The key is to layer these products with another scent – preferably Rare Beauty's signature fragrance, but feel free to experiment with other brands.
The result is a complex, multi-layered aroma that adds depth and interest without being overwhelming. This approach is particularly appealing for those who want to make a statement without going full-on perfume. By layering two products, you create a watercolour effect – gentler, more nuanced, and kinder on the nose.
Another way to achieve this look is through body mists. Brands like Salt & Stone have mastered the art of creating scents that complement, rather than overpower. Take their Santal & Vetiver Body Mist (£45), which can be layered over a deodorant stick or body lotion for an extended-lasting effect.
For those who prefer to mix and match, Phlur's collection is worth exploring. The brand's eau de parfums, body sprays, and body care products are designed to be mixed and matched, creating unique combinations that won't overwhelm the senses. A standout example is Father Figure Eau de Parfum (£32), which pairs beautifully with Cashmere Skin Hair and Body Mist (£25).
Glossier's You perfume is another masterclass in layering. This musky scent is a standalone showstopper, but it layers seamlessly with just about every product – from creams and lotions to deodorants and perfumes. It's the ultimate polyamorous perfume that will please even the most discerning noses.
rare beauty just dropped these £18 balmies in 4 scents & theyre literally so good! its like wearing a fragrance but not too overpowering 
think of it like watercolor painting for your nose u can mix & match with other brands or rare beauty's signature scent & it gets this crazy complex aroma 
i personally love the waldorf vibe of the florals 
anyone else tryin out layering balms? 
! I've been using the Woody Oak one on my wrists and it's giving me LIFE 
. And can we talk about how cool is it to layer different scents to create a unique smell? Like, I paired the Rare Beauty balm with their signature perfume and it was like a whole new scent 
! I've also been eyeing that Phlur eau de parfum from Father Figure... £32 is still kinda steep for me but def worth it if it's as amazing as everyone says 
. Has anyone else tried any of these products out? What are your fave layering combos? 
. I've been playing around with different combos and it's amazing how much of a difference it makes. For example, Woody Oak on its own is nice, but layered over the Rare Beauty signature scent, it's like a whole new fragrance! 
. I've had good luck with body mists too - Salt & Stone's Santal & Vetiver Body Mist is so refreshing and smells amazing on its own or layered over other products 
. But honestly, the one thing that really gets me excited about layering scents is the idea of experimenting with different combinations to create your own unique fragrance... it's like a treasure hunt for scents! 
I mean, if you want a strong scent, just go for it! But if you're trying to create this super subtle vibe, it's kinda annoying how many people are doing it with Rare Beauty's balms. Like, I get it, some people have allergies or migraines, but can't they just smell the nice stuff instead of playing it so safe? 
I've tried Phlur's eau de parfums and yeah, they're great for mixing & matching, but it's not like I'm missing out on anything by using my fave perfume alone. 
I think Rare Beauty's Layering Balms are so underrated! They're perfect for those who want a subtle scent that won't be too overpowering. Applying them to pulse points and layering with another fragrance is genius, it creates this beautiful watercolour effect 
. And I love how they've designed the products to mix and match with other brands and scents... it's like building your own unique fragrance library! 