The Mystery Of The Left Side Scent

Many people have reported experiencing different scents on their left and right sides when wearing perfume or cologne. Some factors that could contribute to this phenomenon include differences in skin pH levels, blood flow, and the positioning of the heart on the left side of the body. Additionally, activities such as writing or using a computer mouse with the right hand can cause the scent to fade faster on that side. Olfactory fatigue, or the brain tuning out background scents, can also play a role in the varying scent perception. It's worth noting that the way we perceive scents can also be influenced by which nostril we use for sniffing, as our nostrils are not completely identical.

Different body sides smell different

It is not uncommon to experience perceiving different scents when lying on the left or right side of the body. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, and understanding these factors can provide insight into the complex nature of scent perception.

Firstly, the position of the nostrils plays a role. Since our nostrils are not identical, there might be a slight difference in inhalation speed between the two, with one nostril inhaling faster than the other. Consequently, the slower airflow through one nostril can enhance the perception of certain scent notes, while the faster airflow through the other nostril might emphasize different notes. This can create the perception of distinct scents when smelling the same source from different sides.

Secondly, the side of the body we sleep on can influence the scent that reaches our nose. For example, when lying on the left side, the left nostril might predominantly smell the left wrist or armpit, and vice versa for the right side. This proximity can intensify the perceived scent, and since our body sides might have distinct odors, it can result in noticeably different experiences.

Additionally, skin chemistry can vary between the left and right sides of the body. Factors such as skin pH, temperature, and blood flow can differ, influencing how a scent interacts with and emanates from the skin. For instance, the right hand might be used more often, leading to warmer skin and altered scent projection. Similarly, frequent right-hand activities like using a computer mouse or writing can cause friction, affecting the longevity of a fragrance.

Furthermore, the application method of fragrances can contribute to the perception of different scents. The amount of perfume applied, the distance from the nose, and the placement on pulse points or non-pulse points can all impact how a scent is perceived over time. For example, spraying perfume on the left wrist and then dabbing some on the right might result in an uneven distribution, leading to differences in scent intensity and perception.

Lastly, olfactory fatigue, or the brain tuning out a constant background scent, can also play a role. When a fragrance is applied too close to the nose, such as on the neck or chest, it can become challenging to detect after a while. This can result in a person smelling their perfume more strongly when lying on one side, where the scent is farther away and hasn't been tuned out yet.

In conclusion, the perception of different scents on the left and right sides of the body involves a combination of factors related to our physiology, scent application, and sensory adaptation. Understanding these factors can enhance our appreciation of the intricate world of scent and its complex interplay with our senses.

The wrist you spray cologne on

Wrists are a common place for people to spray cologne, but some choose to avoid it. There are several reasons why someone might opt to spray cologne on their wrists, or choose another body part instead.

• It's easy to bring your wrist up to your nose and enjoy the scent throughout the day.
• You can monitor how a new fragrance is settling by sniffing your wrist.
• It's the traditional place to apply perfume or cologne.
• It's a good place to apply cologne for your own enjoyment, as it's not constantly under your nose.
• When helping people, it's easy to share your scent with them by applying cologne to your wrists.

• Wrists are in constant movement and contact with objects, which can cause friction that removes the cologne.
• Wrists are located far from your nose and other people's noses, so the scent may not be noticeable.
• If you have tattoos on your wrists, you may want to avoid applying cologne there so as not to degrade the tattoo over time.
• If you work in an office or use a computer a lot, your wrists are in frequent contact with desks and keyboards, which can cause the cologne to fade quickly.
• If you wash your hands a lot, the cologne will wash off.

Where else can you spray cologne?

• Behind the ears
• On the neck
• Inner elbows or forearms
• Belly button
• Chest or torso
• Sides of the neck
• Hair
• Ankles
• Behind the knees
• Upper arms or deltoids

How to make cologne last longer

It can be frustrating to spend a lot of money on a bottle of cologne, only for it to dissipate within a few hours. Luckily, there are several things you can do to make your cologne last longer.

Do:

• Apply right after a shower: Open pores allow cologne to seep into the skin, giving you a longer-lasting aroma.
• Moisturize beforehand: Dry skin has trouble retaining fragrance, so it's important to moisturize before applying cologne to ensure it absorbs efficiently.
• Layer your fragrance: Using complementary scented body products, such as shower gel, body lotion, or body oil, creates a stronger base for your cologne, helping it last longer.
• Spritz on your wrists: Pulse points, where veins and arteries are closer to the skin's surface, are warmer than the rest of the body, helping scents remain strong and fully develop.
• Apply to clothes or hair: Certain fabrics and hair fibres can hold scent well, helping your cologne last longer.

Don't:

• Keep the bottle in the bathroom: Heat, humidity, and light can speed up the breakdown of your cologne. Instead, store it somewhere cool, dark, and dry.
• Spray directly onto your clothes: This can damage the garment and cause the scent to dissipate quickly due to airflow.
• Overapply: Dousing yourself in cologne will only front-load the day, and you'll still be scentless by the same time.
• Rub your wrists together: This can "bruise the scent," causing it to break down faster.

Other Tips:

• Choose the right scent for your skin type: Oily skin allows fragrance to last longer, so if you have dry skin, opt for stronger and more intense fragrances.
• Experiment with different scents: Try out a range of fragrances to find one that suits your skin type and personal preferences.
• Avoid rubbing your fragrance: The friction can break down the top notes of the fragrance, causing it to fade more quickly.
• Carry a travel-sized bottle: To keep your fragrance lasting all day, touch-ups may be necessary, so invest in a small bottle to carry with you.
• Reapply every 4-6 hours: This will help maintain the intensity of your cologne throughout the day.

Why cologne fades quickly on one wrist

There are several reasons why cologne might fade more quickly on one wrist than the other. One factor could be the difference in skin pH levels between the wrists, which can affect how the scent is projected. Additionally, if one wrist is used more often for activities such as writing or computer use, the cologne may be rubbed off more quickly or absorbed by surfaces like a mouse mat.

Another factor could be the way the cologne is applied. Rubbing wrists together after applying cologne can break down the scent, causing it to fade faster. It is recommended to dab or spray the cologne and let it dry without rubbing. Applying cologne to moisturized skin can also help it last longer, as dry skin does not hold fragrance as well.

The type of fragrance can also play a role in its longevity. Generally, oriental and woody scents tend to be longer-lasting than citrus, floral, or green scents.

Additionally, the way we perceive scent can vary between the left and right nostrils, as they are not completely equal. This means that the wrist being smelled through one nostril may seem to have a stronger or weaker scent compared to the other wrist.

Finally, it's worth noting that some people may have a condition called olfactory fatigue, where they become used to a particular smell and no longer notice it as strongly. This could give the impression that the cologne is fading more quickly on one wrist when it is actually a matter of the brain adjusting to the scent.

Why you can't smell your cologne

There are several reasons why you might not be able to smell your cologne.

Firstly, our sense of smell is closely linked to our ability to identify potential dangers in our environment. As such, our brains are wired to focus on new or unfamiliar scents, which might signal something important. This is why you can discern new smells so easily. Once your brain has identified and categorized a scent as non-threatening, it will be pushed to the "back burner," so to speak, and you'll become accustomed to it. This is called olfactory adaptation or "nose fatigue." Over time, you may stop perceiving the scent altogether, even though others around you can still smell it.

Additionally, the scent of cologne can evaporate quickly, especially if it contains volatile notes like citrus. In such cases, you may need to reapply the cologne or opt for a deeper, more concentrated fragrance that will last longer on your skin.

Another factor to consider is the way you apply cologne. It is recommended to spritz it in four places: up and down and two across. Also, applying cologne to freshly hydrated skin can help it last longer. Right after a shower or bath, apply a fragrance-free hydrating cream, and then put your cologne on.

Furthermore, the way you perceive a scent can depend on which nostril you use to sniff it. Our nostrils are not perfectly equal, and one may inhale slightly faster than the other, leading to different scent interpretations.

Lastly, other factors such as skin type, blood flow, and body temperature can influence how a cologne smells on you. For example, some people have reported that perfume lasts longer on their left wrist than their right, possibly due to differences in blood flow or skin pH levels. Similarly, the hand you use more often may warm up faster and cause the scent to wear off quicker.

Frequently asked questions