Banishing Life’s Little Annoyances

Lingering Scent of Perfume

One too many sample spritzes and now you’re emanating a heady mixture of vanilla, patchouli, and rose. “Perfume molecules that are bound to skin oil and protein can take several days to evaporate,” says Luca Turin, a biophysicist and the author of The Secret of Scent ($14, amazon.com). To speed the process, scrub skin with soap, hot water, and a loofah, he says. Wiping with a cotton pad and alcohol also works, says Nilson Fernandes, an eight-year veteran of the fragrance counter at Saks Fifth Avenue in San Francisco.

Tan Lines

If you have only a few hours (or less!), use a sponge to apply liquid bronzer (the same shade you use on your face) to the light areas, then dust with powder. If you have a few days, exfoliate the darker areas and apply self-tanner to the light spots. Blend with your hands to achieve an even tone.