Fragrance Perfector: How the Skin Microbiome Reveals Unique Scents

A recent breakthrough by infectious disease specialist Dr Abdul Ghafur has revealed that our skin microbiome plays a crucial role in how perfumes work on us. In this groundbreaking study, the doctor discovered that certain micro-organisms living on our skin break down oils and compounds secreted by the skin, producing unique byproducts that interact with fragrance molecules.

According to Dr Ghafur, "Just like the gut, each person’s skin microbiome is populated by a distinctive combination of both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ bacteria. It breaks down oils and compounds secreted by the skin and produces unique byproducts that interact with fragrance molecules, affecting the overall scent." He adds that since each person's skin microbiome is different, each perfume smells different in different people, even if they are using the same product.

The concept of a "skin microbiome" might seem new, but scientists are now realising that our body has more microbial cells than human cells. The skin microbiome helps maintain healthy skin and also plays a role in body odour and perfume performance.

Research by Dr Ghafur indicates that skin bacteria influence how perfumes work by affecting the skin's pH, oiliness, and moisture – all of these factors contribute to how perfumes perform. Some bacteria even produce their own scents (volatile organic compounds) that contribute to body odour, which can interact with perfume molecules.

This unique interaction is what leads to the variability in how perfumes smell on different people wearing the same product. A perfume that smells divine on one person might fade rapidly or smell unpleasant on another due to their individual skin microbiome.

Fortunately, metagenomic skin microbiome testing – a detailed PCR-based test – exists to study our unique skin microbiome. However, it is expensive and takes time, making it not suitable for everyone.

However, thanks to advancements in existing microbiome insights, fragrance companies can now develop smarter, more personalized fragrance options using refined personalization techniques without requiring extensive gene sequencing or complex algorithms.

Dr Ghafur's research proposes a framework for fragrance personalisation, integrating microbial ecology, fragrance chemistry and consumer trends. This is good news for perfume lovers, as it implies that we don't need to wait for expensive testing before enjoying customized scents tailored to our unique skin microbiome.