How we use fragrances

Fragrance is used in all sorts of everyday products ranging from cosmetics and personal care products to cleaning products, air fresheners and of course fine fragrances. Even though the use of fragrance creates a huge impact for a product and is often considered the element that completes the sale, only a small proportion of the product is actually made up of fragrance. On average the fragrance only makes up about 2% of the product. However, that 2% is vitally important to the product's identity and functionality.


	Air Fresheners

Modern air fresheners have had an impressive development over the last 60 years or so. In 1948, the first modern air freshener was introduced using aerosol technology. In the early 1950s, air freshener formulations were developed to neutralise unpleasant odours and not simply to mask them with fragrances.

New delivery systems were developed by the 1970s when concerns grew that CFC propellants could harm the ozone layer and many new formats have been available since the 1990s, when for example, potpourri and scented candles became particularly popular. Electrical diffusers with high quality fragrances expanded the market further and air fresheners have become even more important and appreciated by consumers as part of their daily lives, helping to elicit positive moods of joy and satisfaction and resulted in the diverse product portfolio and market penetration existing today.

Useful links:
AISE - International Association of Soaps, Detergents & Maintenance Products
CSPA - Consumer Specialty Products Association - USA
CCSPA - Canadian Consumer Specialty Products Association


	Cleaning products

Fragrance is a key element in the success of a cleaning product. Household detergents, surface cleaners, dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents, fabric softeners all use sophisticated fragrance notes in their formulas.

The right fragrance can be a real advantage in whether or not a consumer purchases one household cleaning product over another.

Useful links:
AISE - International Association for Soaps, Detergents & Maintenance Products
Cleanright website
CSPA - Consumer Specialty Products Association, USA
CCSPA - Canadian Consumer Specialty Products Association
SDA - Soap & detergent Association - USA


	Fine fragrance

Fine fragrance is the pinnacle of the art of fragrance creation. A favourite perfume or cologne can become an integral part of everyday life, providing a touch of glamour, self confidence and luxury.

Fine fragrance makes up about a quarter of the global market for fragrance and is a sector where a hit product can launch the career of a perfumer and make as much money as a Hollywood film. Nearly all major fashion brands have a fine fragrance carrying their name and in recent times many celebrities too.


	Cosmetics & personal care products

Almost all cosmetic and personal care products contain fragrance. Although physically present in very small amounts, the scent given by fragrance to a product makes it instantly recognisable to the consumer and an integral part of the brand.

The feeling of pampering when using a favourite shower gel or facial cream is greatly increased with the right fragrance, adding to a sense of well being and luxury.

Useful links:
Colipa - The European Cosmetics Association
PCPC - Personal Care Products Council - USA
CTPA - Cosmetics, Toiletry & Perfumery Association - UK
CTFA - Cosmetics, Toiletry & Fragrance Association of South Africa