What’s That Smell? The Unexpected Truth About Fragrance

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We’ve been obsessed with how we smell for centuries, but what fragrance we love has shifted. In ancient Egypt, it could be rose or cinnamon. Romans were partial to cloves, jasmine, or ambergris, a sperm whale secretion.

What did ambergris smell like? The ocean, feces, and a hint of tobacco. You could genuinely smell like shit. You can buy today, but it’s not the same.

Today, we’re bombarded with more smells than ever. Some are pleasant, some disgusting, and several bother some of us but not others. My partner and I both have sensitive noses and sinus issues.

He goes nuts when we follow diesel cars. He hates that diesel smell, shutting all the windows no matter the temperature, and turning on the A/C. I go ballistic over perfumes.

Any perfume gives me a headache. I can’t wear it or be near anyone who splashes on fragrance. Even heavily scented hand and body lotion cause my eyes to water and my throat to constrict.

I always use the tester to sample lotions before purchasing them. I usually sniff before dispensing a more considerable amount, just in case. Luckily, it’s not cool to bathe yourself in fragrance anymore.

I used to meet with many salesmen who smelled like they had taken a bath in aftershave…