Wellbeing benefits of perfume

How scent and mood are connected

Out of all our senses, smell is the most emotionally charged. Scents travel straight to the part of the brain linked to emotion and memory, which is why a single spritz can instantly make you feel calmer, happier or more energised.

But don’t just take our word for it; fragrance historian Roja Dove says, “The wonderful thing about fragrance is that it has the magical ability to affect our mood.” He says that making them part of your day-to-day can have a long-lasting effect on your mindset. “Smelling botanical fragrances can become a ritual for relaxing, just like having a glass of wine to unwind quietly at home. Perfumes do make us feel better. They lift our mood and make us feel good.”  

While perfume is no instant cure, many use scent as a feel-good ritual to support wellbeing – something that marks the start of a new day, helps create a moment of calm, or simply something that adds a little joy to the everyday.

Are Botanical Perfumes and Natural Perfumes the same? 

In short, no, they’re not the same, although the terms have become interchangeable in the fragrance world. However, there is an apparent difference between the two which we will delve into now…  

Botanical perfume: A botanical perfume is made with 100% natural ingredients, such as leaves, bark, wood, flowers and fruits. They may also contain essential oils, CO2 extracts, resins and tinctures, but they never contain synthetics, chemical preservatives or animal-derived ingredients, making them suitable for vegans. Plus, due to their ability to work in harmony with our skin’s natural oils, you can also enjoy using a botanical perfume, knowing it will smell slightly different on you than it will on another person!  

Natural perfume:  The biggest difference between botanical and natural perfume is that a natural perfume may contain animal-derived ingredients, such as honey or milk, making them unsuitable for anyone living a vegan lifestyle. Natural perfumes also do not contain synthetic ingredients – even the addition of a small amount means it’s not a true natural perfume formula.  

Not sure if your chosen scent is 100% natural? Simply look at the ingredients label, as it will contain a full list of what has gone into your natural scent. If you spot the term ‘fragrance’, chances are it contains non-natural elements, and it may not be what you are looking for to support your wellbeing.  

The ultimate “ahh” scent. Lavender is the go-to when you want to slow things down, switch off the noise and lean into calm. Perfect for evenings, quiet moments, or when life feels a bit full-on.

Featured fragrance: If you like your calm with a confident edge, you should try BOSS Bottled Striking Lavender. Opening with lavender essence, this scent is perfect for a fresh-but-grounded vibe that feels seriously put together.

Bright and full of good vibes. Citrus scents feel like sunshine in a bottle, guaranteed to uplift your spirits. Scents with notes of citrus are ideal for those busy days or whenever you need a quick mood boost.

Featured fragrance: ©LONE No.8 Woody Citrus Eau de Parfum is a super wearable “fresh start” scent with bergamot, patchouli and cedarwood. Clean, confident and easy to wear – this is your go-to when you want freshness that lasts.

Florals are like a gentle hug – familiar, uplifting, and perfect when you want something light but effortlessly wearable.

Featured fragrance: ©LONE No.7 Amber Floral Eau de Parfum is perfect when you want florals with a little glow-up. It layers bergamot with jasmine, then settles into a warm base of amber. It’s floral… but powerful.