Wearing perfume can automatically make you more attractive. In fact, numerous studies in psychology have established a link between scents and the perceived attractiveness of a person. According to research, women possess a relatively sensitive sense of smell, thus making them more influenced by odour and fragrances. Research carried out in 2007 examined the link between facial attractiveness and olfactory cues. The results showed that the participants gave a lower rating of attractiveness to individuals in the presence of an unpleasant scent. This suggests that smell can increase or decrease the attractiveness of an individual.
In addition to influencing the person’s attractiveness, fragrances can also affect the mind and the emotional state. Research carried out by Linda Buck and Richard Axel in 2004 provided medical evidence that showed the effect of perfumes on stimulating the conscious mind, as well as on stabilising and alternating the emotional state of the individual. Perfumes can affect the psychology of human beings in the ensuing ways.
The psychology of picking a perfume
Selecting a perfume is more than just carrying out a smell test. In fact, investigations show that you select your favourite perfume after being compelled by the subconscious state of mind. With that said, there are four main psychological factors that influence your perfume selection.
The scent versus the bottle
According to research, women are more attracted to the scent, whereas men are more convinced by the physical attractiveness of the perfume bottle. This suggests that women are more likely to buy perfumes that smell good, whereas men are more likely to purchase any perfume that appears attractive, including cheap fragrances.
The emotional reaction
Another factor that provokes the impulse to buy a perfume, in women, is the emotional reaction they feel after smelling the fragrance. Perfumes have the tendency to stimulate an emotional response, which can either compel them to visualise their futures or imagine themselves going on a travel venture. Essentially, the decision to buy the perfume is largely influenced by the assurance that a new scent can symbolise a newer, fresher version of the self.
The wholistic image
For both men and women, the wholistic image of the brand also plays a role in the selection of perfume. In this category, people are more likely to choose a scent that is associated with a well-liked celebrity, has an attractive bottle, luxurious packaging, as well as a creative design.
The ingredients
Lastly, the ingredients also play a part in the selection of a perfume bottle. However, researchers are unable to determine whether it is a single ingredient that triggers the buying behaviour, or it is the combination of several ingredients that compels the person to invest in the bottle.
The psychology of choosing a perfume for others
The process of selecting a perfume for the self is slightly different from that of selecting a perfume for others. According to research, individuals are more likely to gift fragrances to others, which are identical to their biological signature smells. This suggests that when you buy someone a perfume, you are subconsciously inviting them to smell more like you.
The effect of perfume on mood
As stated earlier, perfumes can regulate your mood and emotions. A certain type of smell can trigger a feeling, which can essentially shape the way you feel throughout the day. Paul Jellinek, a researcher, studied the ancient philosophy of the four cardinal elements -air, wind, fire, and earth, and published his research that classified mood into these four elements. The primary idea of the research revolved around how the four elements created the fragrance, which ultimately influenced the wearer’s mood.
The element of air
Jellinek categorised the perfumes created using green, herbal, coniferous, citrus, and fresh ingredients in the air category. His research findings concluded that individuals who wear this fragrance experience an improved mental activity, as well as refined cognitive creative abilities.
The element of fire
The element of fire exhibits bold and fierce personality traits. Perfumes that are included in this category comprise of ingredients that are a combination of spicy, warm, fruity, and a rich propensity. Therefore, the individuals who wear perfumes with these scents are more likely to feel strong, uplifted and rejuvenated.
The element of water
Water, being a soothing entity, expresses the traits of a tranquil and relaxed individual. According to Paul Jellinek, the perfumes with softer, delicate and floral scents are constituted in the water category. The individuals who wear these perfumes are able to mitigate their levels of anxiety and foster a mental equilibrium.
The element of earth
The element of earth symbolises groundedness and comfort in a person. Perfumes that include earthy, sensual and sweet scents are classified in the earth category. When a person wears these scents, they tend to feel comforted and safe. Additionally, as comfort can be linked to food, it is possible that earthy-toned perfumes can make the wearer hungry. The perfumes that you choose can have a major impact on your life. Not only do scents increase your level of attractiveness, but they also regulate your mood, along with your cognitive abilities. So, before picking a fragrance, explore the diverse range of scents available on Match Fragrances. We provide a plethora of fragrances for formal and everyday wear. You can take a look at the ingredients and choose a scent that stimulates the mood you want!
