Why Can't I Smell My Own Cologne?

Have you ever noticed that you can't smell your cologne, even though others can? This phenomenon is called nose blindness or olfactory adaptation, and it happens because our noses get used to the scent of our perfume or cologne. When we first smell a scent, our smell receptors transmit a signal to the limbic system of our brain, which decides how the smell will be perceived and how we will feel about it. However, as we continue to smell the scent, our brain becomes accustomed to it, and we gradually stop noticing the aroma. This process allows our olfactory sensors to quickly identify changes in our surroundings, such as the presence of dangerous scents. So, if you can't smell your cologne, don't worry—it's a natural evolutionary response, and you can try switching up your fragrance or alternating between different scents to keep your nose guessing.

This is likely due to ''nose blindness'' or 'olfactory adaptation'

It is likely that you cannot smell your cologne due to a phenomenon known as "nose blindness" or "olfactory adaptation". This occurs when your nose and brain get used to a particular scent and stop noticing it. The process of smelling is relatively simple: when you first smell a scent, the smell receptors in your nose transmit a signal to the limbic system of your brain, which then decides how the smell will be perceived and how you will feel about it. However, as you continue to smell the scent, your brain becomes accustomed to it, and you gradually stop noticing it. This process of olfactory adaptation is not unique to humans; it has been observed in animals as well, including worms, flies, and rats.

There are several factors that can contribute to nose blindness, such as habits, less sensitive olfactory sensors, or sense of smell disorders. Additionally, the intensity and power of the cologne, as well as your emotional relationship with the scent, can also play a role in how quickly you stop smelling it.

Nose blindness is a vital phenomenon that helps us detect possible dangers. By concealing everyday and habitual scents, our olfactory sensors are better able to quickly identify any slight changes in our surroundings, especially scents that could indicate danger. For example, you may not notice the smell of your own home, but when you return from a vacation, you may notice a musty smell and feel the need to open the windows.

If you want to continue smelling your cologne, there are a few things you can try. Firstly, taking a break from your regular cologne and alternating between different fragrances can help stimulate your nose and make your sensors more reactive. You can also experiment with different perfuming techniques, such as applying a few drops to a cloth or spraying it behind your ear, as this can affect how the scent is perceived. Additionally, you can try recalibrating your nose by sniffing the crease of your elbow or coffee beans, which are commonly provided at fragrance counters.

Your brain has adapted to the scent, deeming it non-threatening

The human brain is wired to identify scents that could be dangerous. Once it has identified a scent as non-threatening, it adapts to it and stops paying attention to it. This is why you can't smell your own cologne after a while.

Our sense of smell evolved to help us identify scents that might signal danger or food. When your brain identifies a new scent, it focuses on determining whether it signals something important. Once it has categorised the odour, it is put on the back burner.

Olfactory fatigue is a well-studied phenomenon. It is believed to be an adaptation to make it easier for our systems to detect changes. It's like how a cat lady can no longer smell all of the cat poop and urine because she has been exposed to it for a long time.

The more you like a scent, the less you can smell it. This is because the more you like a scent, the more it is associated with positive emotions, and the less threatening it is deemed to be.

You can try ''recalibrating' your nose to detect the scent again

If you're struggling to smell your cologne, you can try recalibrating your nose to detect the scent again. This is because our noses get used to the scent of our cologne after continuous exposure and gradually stop recognizing the scent. This is known as olfactory fatigue or olfactory adaptation. It is a natural protective mechanism of our olfactory system to filter out familiar scents and stay alert for new odours, particularly those that could signal danger.

To recalibrate your nose and detect your cologne's scent again, you can try the following:

• Take regular breaks from wearing the cologne: By taking breaks, you can reset your sense of smell and appreciate the fragrance again. This can be done by switching between different fragrances or going fragrance-free for a while.
• Smell your skin: According to Salle Privée’s fragrance chemist and perfume specialist, Tanja Deurloo, smelling your own skin can help reset your smelling pallet. This is because you are sensing your natural body odour, which can prepare your nose to perceive other fragrances more effectively.
• Step outside: Stepping outdoors for some fresh air can help clear your nose and enhance your sense of smell.
• Eat something acidic: Consuming something acidic, such as a piece of mint or a lemon wedge, can help clear your nose and improve your sense of smell. Coffee beans are also known to have a similar effect.
• Change the application method: Experiment with different perfuming techniques, such as spraying behind your ears or on a cloth, rather than directly on your skin. This can create a stronger or more lasting scent.
• Train your nose: You can try daily exercises to train your nose and improve your sense of smell. This is especially important if you have experienced a loss of smell due to illnesses like COVID-19.

By following these tips, you may be able to recalibrate your nose and start detecting your cologne's scent again. It's important to remember that our sense of smell is complex and influenced by various factors, so the effectiveness of these techniques may vary from person to person.

Try alternating between different fragrances

If you can't smell your cologne, the likely reason is that your nose has simply adapted to the fragrance. This is called "nose blindness" or "olfactory adaptation". It is a vital phenomenon that allows our olfactory sensors to quickly identify any slight changes around us, especially scents that could be dangerous.

One way to address this issue is to alternate between different fragrances. This keeps your nose stimulated and your olfactory sensors reactive. You can switch fragrances daily or weekly, depending on your preference. Some people like to wear different perfumes for spring/summer and fall/winter, while others like to change fragrances based on their mood or outfit. There are no rules when it comes to fragrance combinations, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you.

When alternating between fragrances, you can play with different notes or accords, which are what master perfumers use to create their designer eau de parfums. Top notes are fruity or citrusy aromas that are evanescent and gradually evaporate. Middle notes or heart notes are herbal, floral, green, or spicy aromas that dominate the fragrance. Base notes are long-lasting, earthy notes such as cedarwood, musk, sandalwood, patchouli, vetiver, oud, and oakmoss. You can also layer fragrances from different sources, such as a hair mist, deodorant, or body lotion, to create your own unique scent.

In addition to alternating fragrances, you can also try other techniques to play with olfactory perceptions, such as applying a few drops to a cloth or spraying behind the ear. Don't be afraid to vary your routine and explore new scents!

The cologne may be evaporating too quickly

If you can't smell your cologne, it could be that the cologne is evaporating too quickly. This is a common issue with fragrances, and there are several reasons why this might be happening.

Firstly, let's understand why evaporation occurs. When a liquid is exposed to air, its molecules escape and turn into gas, which is then released into the atmosphere. This process is called evaporation and is accelerated by factors such as increased surface area, higher temperatures, and oxygen exposure.

Now, let's look at some ways to prevent rapid cologne evaporation:

• Minimize Oxygen Exposure: Ensure the bottle's cap is tightly closed when not in use. Oxygen exposure can cause the perfume to degenerate and lose longevity. Even spray bottles should have a cap to prevent slow evaporation through the nozzle.
• Avoid Excessive Opening and Closing: Each time you open the bottle, a bit of oxidation and evaporation can occur. It's best to keep the cap on as much as possible. Some brands even design bottles that cannot be opened, only sprayed, which helps preserve the fragrance.
• Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Direct sunlight and heat can alter the formulation of your cologne and cause it to evaporate faster. Store your cologne in a dark, cool place, like a dresser drawer or a closet, to slow down the evaporation process.
• Avoid Shaking the Bottle: Shaking the bottle incorporates air, accelerating the breakdown and evaporation of the cologne. Unless the manufacturer specifically instructs you to shake the bottle, it is best to avoid doing so.
• Opt for Spray Bottles: Perfumes that are not sprayed introduce more air into the bottle, causing faster evaporation. Spray bottles help to minimize oxidation and preserve your cologne for longer.

By following these tips, you can help prevent your cologne from evaporating too quickly, ensuring that you can enjoy your fragrance for longer.

Frequently asked questions