FAQs

what is natural perfume and what ingredients do you use?

Natural means ingredients that are derived exclusively from plants or animals. All House of Forbidden Fruit perfumes contain only natural ingredients sourced from plant essential oils, absolutes, CO2 extracts, tinctures and isolates, and occasionally sustainable animal products like honey, beeswax, ambergris, africa stone or castoreum; all in a base of non-denatured fractionated alcohol. They do not contain petrochemicals, parabens, glycols, dyes or synthetic materials of any kind.

The materials I use are naturally pigmented and may stain fabric. Avoid spraying on clothing.

For more information on natural perfume, read my natural perfume blog post.

Do House of Forbidden Fruit perfumes contain animal ingredients?

Animal-sourced aromatics have been used in perfume and food for millennia. They increase a perfume's longevity and projection, in addition to giving it an indescribable transformative and ethereal quality that must be experienced to be appreciated. Lab-made synthetics have replaced most animalic notes in modern commercial perfumes, but do not, I believe, fully replicate the magic of real animalics. House of Forbidden Fruit therefor uses select sustainable aromatics in certain blends. The ingredients I select are always sustainable, i.e. do not damage the population longevity.

Tangled Garden contains africa stone, a fossilized by-product of the rock hyrax. Honey Beam contains honey alcohol and absolute, beeswax and castoreum. Food of the Gods contains musk from the muskrat.

The castoreum and musk I source are trapped by professional trappers who receive a quota of beavers/muskrat that they are allowed or required to trap per year. This is done as a means of controlling the population and reducing conflict between us and them.

Bees are nature's pollinators and are vital to the health of the planet. I believe that humans and bees have a mutually beneficial, synergistic relationship and treasure the honeybee's gifts.

How long will the perfume last on my skin?

House of Forbidden Fruit perfumes have a 20% concentration of aromatics to increase longevity and projection. You can expect the evolution from the diffusive opening notes to the heavier base notes to take between 3-8 hours, depending on your skin and the environment (humidity and temperature).

Do you offer refunds or exchanges?

I do not offer refunds or exchanges, and therefore recommend that you purchase a sample before committing to a full-size bottle.

Scent is intimate and individual. Every person experiences smell differently, in accordance with their physiology, memories, associations and preferences. Natural perfume especially mingles with the wearer’s unique body chemistry to create a one-of-a-kind fragrance. This is part of the allure of natural perfume!

Do House of Forbidden Fruit perfumes contain allergens?

Allergens are difficult to predict, and House of Forbidden Fruit perfumes contain concentrated plant and animal materials that may cause allergies/reactions. Do not apply to broken or inflamed skin, and stop using immediately if you develop any allergic reactions. Consult physician prior to use if pregnant or nursing.

Natural perfumes typically have a smaller silage (projection) than synthetic perfumes, and in my experience are therefore less likely to cause irritation to others.

Don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about specific ingredients.  

What is your shipping policy?

House of Forbidden Fruit perfumes currently ship to Canada and the Continental USA (excludes Hawaii and Alaska).

Tracked shipping is done via FedEx. Additional duties and taxes may apply if shipping outside of Canada; these fees are outside my control. For more information, see the shipping details page.

What is the shelf life of natural perfumes and how should I store them?

Natural perfumes are typically best used within two years. Your perfume will not “go bad” after this time, but some of the delicate top notes may oxidize, altering the original scent. To extend the life of your perfume, keep it in a cool, dry place. Do not store in a humid environment like the bathroom.

What concentration are House of Forbidden Fruit perfumes?

All perfumes are formulated as eau de parfums and are a 20% concentration of essences in pure alcohol.

Who is behind the House of Forbidden Fruit?

Megan Terpening is the founder and nose behind the House of Forbidden Fruit. I design, blend and package every bottle from my home studio on the Westcoast of Canada.