“He took a small bottle and sprayed it on his body. Suddenly, he transformed into a dazzling beauty, like a blazing fire… They felt drawn to the angelic figure of the man. The madness and captivating force emanating from him were like a torrent that no human could resist.”
Often overshadowed by sight, the sense of smell is one of the most powerful human senses. It is so primal that it forms the root of our perception and serves as the sticky material that binds pieces of experiences together. In fact, humans perceive smells faster than they blink an eye.
Sometimes, a scent will unexpectedly bring fragments of the past to the surface. This phenomenon is known as the “Proust Effect.” Smell possesses a strength that even sight and hearing cannot match.
As such, “olfactory marketing” is hidden all around us in daily life. This is why soap brand ‘LUSH’ always leaves its store doors wide open and why luxury boutiques devote so much attention to diffusers. Research shows that customers are more likely to feel positive toward stores with pleasant scents, stay longer, and make more purchases.
What about the entertainment industry? Singer Taeyeon, for example, reportedly works with a perfumer to create a signature scent for each of her solo concerts. She transforms elusive emotions into fragrance, creating a shared experience for everyone in the audience. Fans are able to form an emotional connection with the artist as soon as they enter the concert hall. Due to the positive response to this strategy, a perfume was even released as part of the concert merchandise.
The study of the effects of fragrance on the human mind is known as Aromachology—a blend of “aroma” (fragrance) and “psychology.” The principles of aromachology are applied in everyday products such as diffusers, bath products, perfumes, and body lotions.
As an editor, I recommend different scents to suit various moods and provide product suggestions accordingly.
If you don’t want to miss out on both relaxation and experience, seeking a perfect rejuvenation at an all-inclusive hotel could be an enjoyable pursuit.
1. #Leisure #Energy #Mood Boost #Road Trip
Citrus
A fresh scent that encompasses orange, lemon, and grapefruit. Its lively and vibrant nature alleviates feelings of gloom, brightens your mood, and gives a light energy boost.
Peppermint
A refreshing herbal scent, perfect for uplifting your spirits and reducing accumulated fatigue. A single breath clears your mind.
• Aesop Tassey Eau de Parfum (left)
A fresh yuzu scent as a base, subtly followed by vetiver and basil. Warm, natural, and comforting, this scent creates a cozy atmosphere.
• Aesop Citrus Melange Body Cleanser (right)
A natural, non-artificial citrus scent. It imbues a delightful vitality and enhances the refreshing feeling after a bath with a subtle fragrance.
2. #Rest #Recovery #Sound Sleep #Staycation
Lavender
A soft, warm fragrance that reduces anxiety and stress, encouraging high-quality sleep.
Bergamot
A citrus tree with a refreshing scent, combined with a floral richness. It provides emotional stability and helps in psychological recovery.
Chamomile
A member of the daisy family, often paired with tea, it is excellent for relieving tension and inducing sleep.
• Deodyne Bath Soak - Lavender Blossom (left)
Lavender essential oil with a mysterious violet hue. Offers a peaceful night through a perfect bath, with a soothing fragrance that stabilizes the mind.
• Tambourine’s Perfume Shell X Hand Cream Chamomile (right)
A harmonious blend of sweet chamomile and bitter clary sage herbal scents. Known as “Jenny Hand Cream,” it exudes a unique luxury.
3. #Meditation #Relaxation #Slow Life #Healing Journey
Woody Scents
Fragrances such as vetiver, moss, sandalwood, and cypress. The natural scents of the forest help lower blood pressure and reduce tension.
Eucalyptus
Known for its air-purifying qualities, eucalyptus has a cool fragrance that aids in breathing, helping to relax stiff muscles and enhance meditation.
• Grandhand Gyujang (left)
Eucalyptus scent as a base, evoking the musty paper smell of an old bookshelf in a library.
• Deodyne Raininfore: Shampoo & Conditioner Set (right)
Scent reminiscent of pine forests after rain. The refreshing fragrance lingers, and the natural ingredients promote a healthy scalp.
4. #Inspiration #Focus #Office #Workcation
Lemon
As mentioned in the “Citrus” category, lemon enhances brain activation and boosts concentration. Its refreshing scent is helpful in increasing work efficiency in a short time.
Rosemary
A subtle herbal scent, similar to mint but milder. It increases blood flow to the brain, significantly improving focus.
Rose
The familiar, lush fragrance of rose. Its sweet floral scent aids in brain activity and enhances memory.
• Grandhand Suji Salmon Sachet
Top notes featuring lemon, combined with floral middle notes like jasmine and rose. The comfort of the sachet fills the room with a delicate fragrance.
• Tambourine’s Perfume Evening Glow
An elegant floral fragrance reminiscent of roses bathed in the sunset glow. One spray can transform the atmosphere.
Choosing the right fragrance wisely is not just about enjoying life more gracefully and richly—it’s like sticking a Post-it note on a memory or experience with scent.
The same applies to travel. Eating, walking, and sleeping… If you’re tired of the usual, you can transform those moments into something more special by using your sense of smell.
Start your day by applying a fragrance that matches your mood. Prepare bath products with a particular theme and end your day surrounded by fragrance. You’ll find that what seemed like an ordinary day suddenly enters the realm of the extraordinary.