The Personal Nature of Fragrance: Why We All Experience Scents Differently

Fragrance is deeply personal. It has the power to evoke emotions, transport us to distant memories, and create an atmosphere that feels uniquely our own. But have you ever noticed that a scent you find strong might seem barely noticeable to someone else? Or that a candle you loved yesterday doesn’t smell quite the same today?

This is because fragrance perception is influenced by a range of factors—our body chemistry, mood, environment, and even the time of day. At Iveagh, we craft our fragrances with care, but because scent is so personal, we are unable to offer exchanges if you can’t detect a fragrance as expected. Here’s why:

Why Are Some Fragrances Stronger Than Others?

Not all fragrances are created equal—some are designed to be soft and subtle, while others are bold and commanding. The way a scent develops depends on multiple factors:

1. The Notes & Their Concentration

Just like perfumes, candles are composed of different fragrance notes. Some scents, like citrus, caramel, or tropical fruits, are naturally vibrant and demand attention. Others, such as musk, vanilla, or powdery floral notes, are more delicate and build gradually over time, creating a soft, lingering presence in a room.

2. The Environment Matters

The size of your space, air circulation, and even humidity can affect how a fragrance fills the air. A candle in a small, enclosed room will feel much stronger than one in an open-plan living space with windows open.

3. Your Personal Sensory Perception

Fragrance perception changes throughout the day. In the morning, when our senses are fresh, we may pick up scents more easily. By the afternoon—when our body’s circadian rhythm naturally dips—we may find our sense of smell is slightly dulled. This is why perfumers evaluate fragrances before midday when their noses are at their sharpest.

4. Fragrance Fatigue

Ever noticed that after a while, you stop smelling a candle that’s been burning for hours? That’s because our noses adapt to familiar scents, a phenomenon known as olfactory fatigue. While the fragrance is still there, our brain tunes it out over time. If this happens, step outside for some fresh air and return—it may surprise you how strong the scent actually is!

Choosing a Fragrance That’s Right for You

When selecting a candle, consider what kind of fragrance experience you’re looking for. Do you prefer something bold and room-filling or soft and subtle? Understanding the nature of different scents can help set the right expectations.

At Iveagh, our fragrances are carefully blended to create a sensory journey—but because scent is personal, it’s important to choose what resonates with you. While we are unable to offer exchanges based on fragrance strength, we encourage you to explore and find the notes that speak to you.

Fragrance is an Experience—Make It Your Own

No two people experience scent the same way, and that’s what makes fragrance so special. Whether your Iveagh candle fills a room with warmth or offers a soft, comforting glow, it’s about creating a space that feels right for you.