99% Invisible

Perfume: Articles of Interest #9

20 snips
May 19, 2020
Dive into the often-overlooked world of high-end perfume, where scent intertwines with history and personal identity. Hear contrasting views during a conversation at Sephora that elevate the artistry of fragrance. Discover the sophisticated process of crafting perfumes, blending natural and synthetic elements to evoke emotions. Unpack the cultural significance of smell and how it shapes our memories, while critiquing traditional gender norms surrounding fragrances. This journey through scent invites a fresh appreciation for the olfactory art.
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INSIGHT

The Art and Science of Perfume Design

  • Designing a perfume involves artistry, intuition, and scientific knowledge, similar to composing music or choreographing a dance.
  • Some perfume ingredients are easily extracted, like citrus scents from fruit peels.
ANECDOTE

Constructing a Fig Scent

  • Perfumer Gino Percontino explains how he constructs a fig scent.
  • By modifying and layering notes of coconut, pulp, green elements, and woods, he creates the desired fig aroma.
INSIGHT

The Opacity and Safety of Perfume Ingredients

  • Perfume ingredients are often kept secret, raising concerns about potential health risks.
  • While the industry claims low concentrations are safe, some ingredients have been linked to allergies or other health issues in animal studies.
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