No scents of smell? How to avoid going nose blind

Have you ever walked into a coffee shop toilet, or your friends home, and been impressed with the incredible smell of their diffuser?  And wonder why the diffuser you’ve had for a few months doesn’t seem to smell any more? 

Well…you might be experiencing something called noseblindness. 

What is noseblindness?

Nose blindness, otherwise known as olfactory fatigue, happens when our brains become desensitised to a particular smell over time.  

When we encounter a new smell, our brain sends signals to our olfactory (smelling) system to help us identify and process the scent. However, as we continue to smell that same odour repeatedly, our brain starts to tune it out in order to focus on more important sensory information. This is why we can't smell our own body odour or bad breath, but others can.

Can you get used to your favourite candle & diffuser scents?

Unfortunately, yes! Candle and diffuser scents can lead to nose blindness if overused. In fact, the more we are exposed to a particular scent, the less likely we are to notice it.

The initial burst of fragrance may be strong and noticeable, but as our olfactory system becomes accustomed to the scent, we may stop noticing it altogether. This can lead us to use more and more of the product in an effort to regain the desired level of scent, which can exacerbate the problem.

What can you do to avoid going noseblind?

1. Take breaks from scents: Try taking a break from strong scents and then return to them after some time has passed. This can help your brain reset and avoid becoming desensitized to the scent.
2. Vary the scents: If you use scented products frequently, try to vary the scents you use. This can prevent your brain from becoming too accustomed to one particular scent.
3. Use scents in moderation: Avoid overusing scented products, particularly in smaller spaces where the fragrance can become overwhelming. Stick to using a small amount of fragrance at a time and allow time for the scent to dissipate before adding more.
4. Clean regularly: Regular cleaning can help remove lingering odours and prevent the build-up of scent molecules in your home. Pay particular attention to areas where odours tend to linger, such as the kitchen and bathroom.
5. Use natural scents: Consider using natural scents such as essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances. These can provide a subtle and pleasant scent without overwhelming the senses.

By varying your scents and using fragrances in moderation, you can enjoy a beautiful smelling home without falling victim to nose blindness.