Four Interesting Things You Never Knew About Perfume

These weird and wonderful facts that will ensure you never sniff perfume in the same way again

21 March, 2018
Four Interesting Things You Never Knew About Perfume

Chances are, you give the scents you spritz little more thought than 'ooh, that smells SO good'. But, what if we told you we've dug up some weird and wonderful facts that will ensure you never sniff perfume in the same way again? With the help of Will Andrews, P&G Fragrance Design Team, we now know how to clear those nasal passages and why you should never share perfume.

1. Why your perfume 'disappears'

Before you OD on your favourite spritz because you just can't seem to smell it, know that your nose becomes acclimatised to your signature perfume. "Your nose and brain both adapt to scents they grow familiar with," says Andrews. "Once they realise they're non-harmful, they say "oh, you're okay, let's switch that off." That's why you'll rarely be able to sniff anything more than the top notes."

But, while you may not be able to enjoy that favourite fragrance beyond the first few moments post-misting, those around you will, so be assured that your classic scent will be noticed! 

2. How to clear your nasal passages

Ever noticed how some department stores keep pots of coffee beans on their perfume counters? They're supposed to clean your nasal 'canvas' between sniffing various perfume. However, Andrews says that unless you're a barista and are used to the smell, "they're only going to confuse your nose further by throwing another smell in."

If you want to clear your nasal passages like an expert perfumer when trialing scents, "sniff something neutral like your clothes or the crook of your arm. The familiarity will reset your nose," Andrews adds.

3. Why you shouldn't share perfume with friends

Have you ever fallen for a friend's perfume and misted it on, only to find it doesn't smell as wonderfully sweet or fresh on you? There's some very surprising chemistry behind that. Andrews says there is research to suggest we choose friends who are our genetic opposite, so that they are unlikely to be competitive with us.

Because of their very different genetic makeup, certain notes that translate well on their skin are unlikely to suit your unique base skin smell. But, if you want to share the new perfume you just bought your mum for Mothers Day, you might be in more luck.

4. How you should be storing perfume

You should store perfume like you would a fine wine by keeping it somewhere cool and dark so the notes will stay intact for longer. The ideal place is in a cupboard or fridge where the lighter and heat can't alter them.

And you can always display those beautifully designed fragrance bottles on your dresser once the scent has been used up.

Credit: Cosmopolitan
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