In the olfactory world, perfume and emotions have a complex relationship. Smells evoke a wide range of feelings and trigger distant memories. Why do we love some scents and hate others? This question has plagued minds for centuries. The answer is not easy, as it depends on many aspects, from our body chemistry to our personal experiences…
The psychology of smells: I love you, me you neither
Psychology plays a major role in our reactions to perfumes. Some scents are known to have an impact on our mental well-being. For example, lavender is often associated with relaxation and stress reduction, while citrus fruits can stimulate energy and vitality. Our olfactory preferences can be influenced by our current emotional needs.
The connection between perfume and memory
The sense of smell is the one most closely connected with memory. When we inhale a fragrance, the odorant molecules interact with olfactory receptors located in the nose. These receptors then send electrical signals to the brain via the olfactory nerve. However, unlike most of the other senses, olfactory nerves do not pass through the thalamus (the part of the brain responsible for filtering and processing sensory information) before transmitting it to the cerebral cortex.
Direct access to memory
Instead, olfactory nerves project directly into areas of the brain responsible for emotions and memory, in particular the amygdala and hippocampus. This means that scents have almost immediate access to our memories, bypassing the filter of reason and rational thought. Perfume and emotions are therefore intimately connected, which is why reactions to scents are often instinctive and emotional, rather than reflective. In this sensory whirlwind, perfumes can evoke intense moments, like the lyrics of a song that resonate with a particular intensity, creating a powerful emotional bond that transcends mere sensory perception.
Deep and instinctive memory
Olfactory memory is often referred to as “deep memory” because it is stored in a different way to visual or auditory memory. Smells can awaken deeply buried memories, sometimes forgotten for years. This olfactory memory is also instinctive, meaning that a scent can influence our emotions and reactions in powerful ways, without us necessarily being aware of what’s going on.
Perfume and emotions: attraction or repulsion to a scent
As a result, attraction or repulsion to a scent is often irrational and emotional. A scent can bring to mind a childhood memory, a moment of happiness or sadness, or even a loved or hated person. These reactions are difficult to explain or justify with rational arguments, because they are rooted in our deep, instinctive memory. Thereby, our eau de parfum vanille could transport you to happy memories of family baking, or remind you of a dessert gone wrong. As for our ippi patchouli fragrance, a single spritz could take you back to the hippie days of the 70s…
The power of subliminal perfume notes on emotions
Subliminal notes are an essential aspect of a fragrance’s olfactory composition, contributing to its complexity and ability to trigger emotions. These notes, though often individually imperceptible, play a crucial role in how we perceive and react to a fragrance.
Presentation of subliminal notes
Subliminal notes add subtle complexity to a perfume by interacting with other olfactory notes. They can modify the overall perception of the fragrance by softening or reinforcing certain properties. For example, subliminal wood notes can add depth and warmth to a floral fragrance, creating a harmonious balance between lightness and richness.
The persistence of olfactory memory
Subliminal notes have a significant impact on the persistence of olfactory memory. Because they last a long time on the skin, they are often associated with memories and experiences linked to perfume. So, even years after wearing a fragrance, a simple inhalation of certain olfactory notes can revive precious memories and deep emotions.
The sophistication of subliminal notes
The term “subliminal” itself suggests that these notes act below the threshold of our consciousness. Although we may not consciously detect them, they exert a subtle but powerful influence on our appreciation of a fragrance. This is why the composition of a perfume is a true work of art, where the perfumer must skillfully balance the different notes to create a harmonious and memorable olfactory experience.
The impact of olfactory trends on emotions
Society and cultural trends play an important role in our perfume preferences. Advertising campaigns, celebrities and fashion designers influence our choices. Fragrances can become symbols of social status or belonging to a particular group.
The deep connection between perfume and emotions is a fascinating feature of our sensory experience. We can’t always explain why a fragrance resonates with us, but the reason often lies in our past. Our memory then reminds us more or less directly… According to your testimonials, our musc fragrance often brings back happy childhood memories thanks to its carnal facet. Whereas our ïōdé perfume evokes memories of vacations and escapes that we want to relive all year round.
Which scent, or which ingredient, immediately transports you?
