Olfactory Fatigue

May 12 / M.J. Nightingale
Q: Why can’t I smell the perfume that I’m wearing?

A: Let me tell you a little secret: Your nose is pretty incredible. It's capable of detecting danger and deliciousness, all while working behind the scenes. But what happens when your nose gets tired? That's where olfactory fatigue comes in. Read on to find out how brilliant your "nose brain" is. 
Picture this: You're walking down the street, minding your own business, when you're suddenly hit by an intense aroma. Maybe it's someone's overpowering perfume or a not-so-pleasant scent from a nearby garbage bin. Either way, your nose immediately perks up to assess the situation. Is this smell dangerous? Should I be worried? Once your brain determines that there's no threat, it quickly dismisses the odor and moves on with life.

The problem with this natural response is that it can make us completely oblivious to the fragrance we're wearing. You might think that your perfume has faded, but in reality, your brain has just decided that it's not important anymore. Meanwhile, everyone around you is still getting a whiff of your scent - whether they like it or not.

Trust me, I've been there. I once had to switch cabins on a tram because someone's perfume was so overpowering that my eyes were watering and my nose was burning. It's not a pleasant experience, and it's one that we can all avoid by being mindful of how much fragrance we're applying.

Remember: Less is more. Trust your perfume and your brain. Don't let olfactory fatigue lead you down the path of overpowering scents. Your nose - and those around you - will thank you for it.
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