Most perfumes come in two strengths: Eau de Parfum (EDP) and Eau de Toilette (EDT). The EDP is more concentrated and will last longer. The body lotion version of any fragrance is likely to be the mildest, but will give you a good idea of how the perfume reacts with your skin. 2 Get samples of perfumes in one of two ways: Purchase something inexpensive (such as a body lotion) at a perfume counter and ask for additional samples of other fragrances, or buy perfume sample “lots” from eBay. The perfume counter method will allow you to fine-tune your sampling, because the counter person will be able to recommend scents similar to one you like. The eBay method will probably yield a greater variety of samples, often for less than $1 each. Each sample vial is good for two to three applications. 3 Know that perfumes consist of three “notes,” named for the order in which they are detected by your nose: first the top notes, then the middle, then the bottom. The middle and bottom notes are the ones that really count, since the top notes disappear after a few minutes. Because of this, when you try on perfume, resist the temptation to smell it right away; walk around for 10 minutes until the top notes fade and you’ll be able to detect the true nature of the fragrance. 4 When you find a few fragrances you like, look them up online at Perfume Sale websites. The listings will tell you what is in the fragrance, sometimes even separating that information into the three notes for you. Look for similar elements in the fragrances you like: do they all contain tonka bean, or wisteria, or amber? This will guide you in selecting other fragrances to try. 5 If you can’t find a fragrance that has just the right combination of scents for you, there are places where you can blend your own. You might also prefer a simple, one-note fragrance, such as lavender or orange blossom. If you buy a high-quality aromatherapy essential oil of that scent, you can dilute it with mineral oil for a scent that will last a very long time.