Most of the time, after applying the fragrance, you stop smelling it within minutes, giving the impression that you are wearing nothing. You try to fix it immediately, but mistakenly, by applying more fragrance, you end up smelling too strong and probably stop smelling it anyway. This common physiological response is called olfactory fatigue.
The sense of smell, our most primitive sense
But why do you almost never smell your own fragrance? The sense of smell is the most primitive sense we possess. The most amazing thing is that your olfactory heritage, which has been unconsciously accumulated over the years, has the ability to evoke images and sensations when perceiving a certain aroma, even if many years have passed since the first time you smelled it.
The problem with fragrances is that the sense of smell gets tired of perceiving the same scent all the time. When you constantly perceive the same aromas, your brain filters out essences and the olfactory memory does not remember the usual aromas.
- Olfactory Fatigue: sensory adaptation process where receptors stop sending signals to the brain in response to a constant stimulus.
- Adaptive Function: the brain prioritises new smells that could indicate danger or changes in the environment.
- Olfactory Memory: the brain's ability to store fragrances and associate them with specific long-term memories.
A fragrance for every occasion
That's why it's recommended to have at least 3 fragrances: one for everyday use; another for weekends; and a final scent chosen for special occasions. This way your nose doesn't quickly get used to a particular scent and will always detect new notes.
| Type | Recommended Use | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Daily / Office | Weekdays | Maintains freshness without saturating the environment. |
| Weekend | Leisure / Free time | Creates a sensory break from routine. |
| Special occasions | Events / Evening | Strengthens the memory of unique moments. |
After showering, the skin is damp and pores are more open. This is an ideal moment to apply it so the skin absorbs the aromas easily and they last longer.
It is also recommended that you apply the fragrance on areas where body temperature tends to be a bit higher, such as the inner wrists, elbows, or sides of the neck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my nose get used to my fragrance?
This happens due to olfactory fatigue or sensory adaptation. The brain identifies the scent as constant and not dangerous, so it decides to ignore it to detect new smells in the environment.
Where should I apply fragrance to make it last longer?
On pulse points such as wrists, neck, and behind the ears, where body heat helps diffuse the scent. Applying right after showering on damp skin also significantly improves longevity.
Is it bad to apply a lot of fragrance if I can't smell it?
Yes, applying too much fragrance can be annoying to people around you, even if you don't perceive it. Saturating your receptors with more quantity can speed up the olfactory fatigue process.
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