The ‘least attractive scents’ to whiff

Phew what a pong…

With scent playing a key role in attraction, it’s no surprise that the month of love sees a surge in perfume sales. With that in mind, perfume specialist and psychotherapist Jake Freedman has partnered with Electric Tobacconist to reveal which scents are scientifically the most unattractive.

Patchouli

Patchouli has a deep, earthy scent often linked to damp soil, mold, or even food-like aromas. Its scent is frequently mistaken as musk when in reality its natural scent is closer to what we should call “must.” According to fragrance expert Jake Freedman, patchouli may be the less appealing counterpart to musk:

“When people describe not liking musk, I have often found that they are thinking of things that smell “musty” rather than “musky”. Musty smells are usually associated with dampness and decay. Patchouli is a good example, as its scent can be reminiscent of soil and dampness. On the other hand, the musks that are used in modern perfumery include Iso E Super in Molecule 1 by Escentric Molecules and Ambroxan, which is one of the two main base notes in Maison Francis Kurkdijan’s popular fragrance Baccarat Rouge 540.”

Tuberose

Tuberose is the bold, unapologetic showstopper of the floral world. Native to Mexico, its scent is rich, creamy, and intoxicating. Tuberose walks a fine line between irresistible and overwhelming, making it one of the most polarising scents in perfumery.

Tuberose perfume scandals:

• Giorgio Beverly Hills | Giorgio: This perfume defined the ’80s, leaving a trail of tuberose and aldehydes in its wake. But its boldness came at a cost—it was banned in several American restaurants and workplaces because the scent was too overpowering for public spaces.6

• Dior | Poison: Living up to its name, Poison was the olfactory equivalent of a power suit. Its intense blend of tuberose, spices, and dark fruits became so notorious that it too faced bans in restaurants, as people struggled to handle its bold presence.7

Balsamic

Balsamic notes add a rich, savory depth to perfumes, infusing them with woody, resinous warmth. But not everyone’s on board with its charm as balsamic scents can veer into animalistic or even medicinal territory, dividing fragrance lovers into passionate fans and fierce critics.8 Balsamic notes can feel heavy or oppressive, triggering discomfort in those who associate such deep, earthy aromas with confined spaces or overpowering environments.

In terms of sexual and genetic attraction, for some, the dense, syrupy character of balsamic accords may lack the freshness or brightness typically linked to vitality and fertility. This primal polarity is what makes balsamic notes both intoxicating and polarising, a bold olfactory gamble that either captivates or repels.