Scent and Skin Chemistry

Jun 3 / M.J. Nightingale
Q: Why does my perfume smell different on somebody else?

A: The answer is simple… chemistry
Everyone is unique, and factors such as skin temperature, skin type, diet, hormones — and even any medication you take — all play a role in how perfume reacts to the body.
The act of spraying scent on someone’s skin triggers a chemical reaction between the individual and the perfume, resulting in slight differences in how the fragrance smells.
TRY IT!
Spritz some of the same perfume on both yourself and a willing volunteer. After a few minutes, compare how you smell. You should be able to detect slight differences in the resulting scent.
Just like a fingerprint, each human being has an odour exclusive to them. And our sense of smell is more sensitive than we can possibly imagine. Studies have shown that new mothers can detect their own baby using just their sense of smell, even when blindfolded.

Reasons your perfume smells different on you than it does on others:
  1. Skin temperature.
  2. Skin condition (dry or oily).
  3. Diet - have you been eating spicy or garlic heavy foods.
  4. Hormone levels - which varies throughout the month even for men.
  5. Medications you are taking.
  6. Any other fragrances you may have on your skin - lotion, oil, etc.

Conclusion: One person’s perfect scent could be another person’s stink! When buying perfume for others, don’t use your skin as a canvas to try it out, either buy them their favourite fragrance, or stick to buying slippers!
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