I like to apply scents all over my body, but I have very sensitive skin. Can you recommend a fragrance that contains no alcohol?
On the Wagon, Tsim Sha Tsui
The Dictator: Okay, that was a visual we did not need. Also, have you ever stopped to think it might not be alcohol that irritates your skin? Many people suffer allergic reactions to other chemicals and essential oils. But if you are convinced alcohol causes the problem, visit the New Age Shop (G/F, 7 Old Bailey Street, Central, tel: 2810-8694), where you'll find bottles of pure patchouli, lavender, or sandalwood for only $96, or violet, amber, saqqara or jasmine for $110 to $118. For a more sophisticated scent, try one of the delicious Pure Fume blends ($165) from Aveda (G205, Gateway, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 2110-0881; call 2737-3026 for more locations). Another option is solid perfume. Caswell-Massey (Shop 105, Prince's Building, Central, tel: 2525-3591; call 2349-8328 for more locations), for example, sells little tins of lilac, lavender and lily of the valley scents ($80) that would easily fit in your pocket or purse. Alternatively, try one of the many alcohol-free fragrances targeted at the infant population such as Mustela ($180 from Caswell-Massey locations). If you miss the luxurious spraying ritual, look for an alcohol-free body splash or summer fragrance in your favourite scent, such as J'Adore Summer Fragrance ($280) from Lane Crawford (Pacific Place, Admiralty, tel: 2118-3668).