FAQ
Clarens Parfumerie — Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Because perfume should never be expected.
Quick answers at a glance
- Shipping (SA): Dispatched in 1-2 Business Days via The Courier Guy/PUDO. Free delivery over R900.
- Returns: Unopened items within 30 days days. Minis/discovery sets are non-returnable once opened.
- Payments: Card, Instant EFT.
- Vegan & cruelty-free: Yes. Phthalate-free, paraben-free.
- Samples: Discovery sets
- Contact: See our contact us page
Orders, Shipping & Delivery
Where do you ship?
We currently ship across South Africa. For neighbouring countries or international orders, email us and we’ll quote a custom courier rate.
How much is delivery and how long does it take?
Delivery is approximately R50-60 nationwide (free over R900). Orders leave our studio within 1-2 business days, and transit typically takes 2-3 days via The Courier Guy. Remote areas may take a little longer.
Can I collect in person?
Yes—Clarens, Free State. We'd love you to come and visit our Clarens store.
How do I track my parcel?
We’ll email a tracking link as soon as your order ships. If it hasn’t arrived within the estimated window, reply to your order email and we’ll chase it up.
My parcel arrived damaged—what now?
Take a clear photo of the outer box, inner packaging, and the damaged item within 48 hours of delivery and mail us. We’ll replace or refund according to your preference.
Payments, Security & VAT
What payment methods do you accept?
Visa/Mastercard, Instant EFT. Prices include VAT unless otherwise stated.
Is my payment secure?
Yes. We use a secure gateway with PCI-DSS compliance. We never store your full card details.
Returns, Exchanges & Cancellations
Can I return a perfume?
Unopened, unused items in original packaging may be returned within 30 days days of delivery. Due to hygiene and safety, opened perfumes and discovery sets cannot be accepted unless faulty.
How do I start a return?
Email us with your order number and reason. We’ll share the return address and next steps. Return shipping is your responsibility unless we made an error.
What if I change my mind before dispatch?
Reply to your order confirmation ASAP. If we haven’t shipped, we can cancel and refund in full.
About Our Perfumes
Are your perfumes vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes. We’re proudly vegan and cruelty-free. We do not test on animals and we choose suppliers who share that stance.
Do you use phthalates or parabens?
No. Our perfumes are phthalate-free and paraben-free. We avoid heavy synthetic fixatives; our compositions focus on naturals and safe aroma isolates for balanced wear.
Are your perfumes natural?
Some, not all. Check our collections for more info.
Projection & longevity—what should I expect?
Our house style is polite projection with elegant longevity—designed for shared spaces (offices, weddings, travel). Expect a soft “halo,” not a room-filling cloud. See “Application Tips” below for making it last.
Where are you based?
We create and hand-finish in Clarens, Free State (South Africa).
Do you follow safety guidelines (IFRA/allergens)?
We formulate thoughtfully with attention to common allergens listed on our packaging where applicable. If you need ingredient specifics for a particular product, email us and we’ll help.
Are your bottles recyclable?
Glass bottles are recyclable. Keep caps/atomisers for re-use where possible; check your local recycling guidelines for mixed materials.
Sampling, Discovery & Gifting
Do you sell samples or smaller sizes?
Yes—Discovery Sets.
How do I choose a scent online?
Start with a Discovery Set (fresh day / skin-soft woods / ceremony-night). Wear each for a full day and take notes. Also check out our Fragrance Finder Quiz.
Do you offer gift wrapping or notes?
We do. Add your message at checkout and we’ll include a handwritten card. Want something extra? Email us—unexpected is our love language.
Office-Friendly & Everyday Wear
What makes a perfume “office-friendly”?
Polite projection, breathable structure, and notes that sit close (citrus, tea florals, pale woods, soft musks).
Can I wear your perfumes to work if I’m scent-sensitive?
Yes—start with one tap on wrists, hydrate skin first, avoid scarves/hair. If in doubt, try a Discovery Set to find your comfort zone.
Dupes, “Inspired-by” & Parallel Imports
Do you make dupes or “inspired-by” versions of designer perfumes?
No. Our philosophy is “Because perfume should never be expected.” We build original compositions you won’t find elsewhere.
What’s a parallel (grey) import?
A genuine branded product imported without the local distributor’s authorisation—often cheaper, typically without the brand warranty. If you shop marketplaces, look for clear “Parallel Import” labelling and sensible return policies.
How can I avoid counterfeits?
Buy from authorised retailers or makers you trust. Be wary of “factory reject/overrun” stories and “branded” bottles at suspiciously low prices. When in doubt, ask for batch/label details before buying.
Care, Storage & Safety
How do I make my perfume last longer?
Moisturise first, apply to pulse points (wrists, base of throat, inner elbows), and avoid overspraying fabric. In summer heat, apply less but more strategically.
How should I store perfume?
Cool, dark, upright. Avoid direct sun, heat, or steamy bathrooms. Tighten caps after use.
Is perfume safe during pregnancy/breastfeeding or with specific conditions?
Everyone’s sensitivity is unique. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have specific medical concerns, please consult your healthcare professional or skip.
Flammability & use
Keep away from flame and heat sources. For external use only. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Wholesale, Corporate & Custom
Do you supply wholesale or corporate gifts?
Yes—limited allocations for selected partners, corporate gifting, and event favours. Share your brief (quantity, date, budget) and we’ll revert with options.
Do you make bespoke perfumes?
Occasionally, for weddings and special projects with sufficient lead time. Tell us your story, moodboard, and timeline.
Privacy, Accounts & Support
Do I need an account to order?
No—but creating one makes tracking orders and reordering easier.
How do I contact you?
Email us on our Contact page. We aim to respond within 1–2 business days.
Application Tips (the 3-Day Test)
Day 1: 1–2 taps/sprays—live with it indoors.
Day 2: Try outdoors/commute—notice the dry-down.
Day 3: Wear during your usual routine—meetings, gym, dinner.
Take notes; you’ll know which one “disappears into you” in the best way.