What is the short term effect of perfumes on olfactory thresholds?

• Published in: Journal of laryngology and otology Vol. 121; no. 8; p. 755
• Main Authors: Robinson, A M, Gaskin, J A, Philpott, C M, Goodenough, P C, Elloy, M, Clark, A, Murty, G E
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01-08-2007
• Subjects: Adolescent; Adult; Female; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Perfume - adverse effects; Prospective Studies; Sensory Thresholds - drug effects; Smell - drug effects
• ISSN: 1748-5460
• DOI: 10.1017/S0022215107007840

Body sprays and perfumes are commonly worn by patients attending ENT out-patients clinics. Their effect on performance in olfactory testing is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine whether olfactory thresholds are altered by the presence of such fragrances.
One hundred and sixty healthy volunteers, aged 18 to 65 years, underwent olfactory thresholds testing. Each was then exposed to one of four strong perfumes, applied in a facemask for two minutes, and the thresholds were retested.
All olfactory thresholds worsened after being exposed to the strong perfumes of Lynx and Impulse body sprays, with the strongest effect being on olfactory detection of phenylethyl alcohol (p<0.001).
Strong perfumes can have a negative effect on olfactory thresholds.
Patients attending olfactory threshold testing need to be advised not to wear body sprays or perfumes.