What Does Happiness Smell Like?

Happiness has a very distinct scent. In fact, recent studies suggest that humans can communicate positive emotions – like joy – via the smell of their perspiration. Although the perfume industry is a while off bottling “happy” sweat molecules, perfumes have long captured specific aromas that trigger feelings of contentment. Here are some of our favourite feel-good notes to look out for.

STRAWBERRIES
A whiff of fresh strawberries is not only delicious, it’s also said to increase alertness and concentration.

LAVENDER
A common ingredient in fragrances, lavender is known to promote relaxation and lift mood. If you’re facing a stressful situation or want to give off a sense of trust, lavender is your go-to scent.


VANILLA

Sweet smelling vanilla is said to reduce stress and anxiety. Its comforting odour is ideal for when you need a bout of confidence and optimism.

JASMINE
In aromatherapy, jasmine is commonly used as an anti-depressant. These delicate, sweet smelling flowers have incredible mood boosting and stress relieving properties.



APPLES & PEARS 
Uplift and energise with the scent of apples and pears. These “smiling” ingredients can do-away with anxiety.

CITRUS FRUITS
Oranges, lemons and grapefruits are not only good for your health, their scent has mood enhancing capabilities too. Citrus fragrances are great for increasing alertness, so spritz on a fragrance when you need a personality pick-me-up.   

FRESHLY CUT GRASS
Freshly cut grass is said to make you more joyful and relaxed, as well as being linked to improved memory. If you don’t have a lawn to mow, look for a fragrance with grass’ bright tones. 

Our preferred fragrance

HAPPYDISIAC 

Master perfumer Olivier Cresp, is considered one of the most talented perfumers of his time. Based in Paris, he is the creator of the world famous perfume “Angel from Thierry Mugler” and more latterly Oriflame’s “Happydisiac Woman”, which he created together with young perfumer Elise Benat.

Happydisiac blends the smell of succulent crushed strawberries and refined Egyptian jasmine. Developed around the concept of an “emotional toolbox”, this scent captures “happy ingredients” to create a scent that’s truly worth smiling about.

Shop Happydisiac here.

Words by: Photographs by: Shutterstock