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By Prosper Olayiwola

The Managing Director of Sirtified Perfume and More, Femi Adetayo Olowookere has got his audience awestruck at the venue of a talk show organized for lovers of perfumes and merchants at a popular hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

Adetayo who used the opportunity to share his over twenty years experience in perfume business explained that perfume is far more than an accessory, noting that it was a powerful, invisible language that speaks to the emotions, memories, and perceptions of those around who wear them.

Speaking at the talk show with the theme, “What Your Perfume Is Saying to Others: the Science, History, and Psychology of Scent” the astute businessman also advised perfume users that it was essential to understand the science of fragrance and apply it correctly to ensure the best scent experience whether for religious functions, classrooms, parties, office or at home.

According to Adetayo, “Your choice of fragrance not only enhances your presence but also tells a story about your identity, personality, and intentions. By exploring the science behind the olfactory system, the cultural and historical context of scent, and the psychology of fragrance choices, we uncover how perfume communicates who we are and who we aspire to be.

“Scent begins its journey in the nose, where specialized sensory neurons in the olfactory epithelium detect odour molecules. These signals travel to the olfactory bulb in the brain, which is directly linked to the limbic system the centre for emotions, memory, and behaviour. Unlike visual or auditory stimuli, which are processed in the brain’s analytical regions, scent bypasses rational thought and goes straight to the emotional core.

“This unique connection explains why smells can evoke powerful memories, stir deep feelings, and even influence behaviour. A whiff of lavender might transport you to a peaceful garden, while the scent of vanilla could remind you of a warm kitchen on a winter day. This primal connection makes perfume an exceptionally potent tool for self-expression and influence.

“Perfume has played a significant role in human culture for thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, fragrances like frankincense and myrrh were used in religious rituals and to honour the gods. The Greeks and Romans elevated perfume to an art form, blending oils and spices for personal adornment. In the Middle Ages, perfumes were prized for their ability to mask odours, while the Renaissance saw fragrance become a symbol of wealth and sophistication.

“Today, perfume is both an art and a science, with modern perfumery combining rare ingredients, synthetic molecules, and cutting-edge chemistry to create scents that evoke emotion and memory. This rich history underscores the enduring significance of fragrance in our lives.

“Fragrances are deeply personal and reflect how we wish to be perceived. They act as an olfactory extension of our personality, with different scent families carrying distinct psychological associations.

“Floral Scents (e.g., rose, jasmine, lavender); Often associated with femininity, warmth, and elegance, floral fragrances evoke romance and approachability. Iconic examples include Chanel No. 5, with its timeless blend of jasmine and rose.

“Citrus Scents (e.g., lemon, bergamot, orange); Bright and energizing, these fragrances signal optimism and dynamism. A classic example is Acqua di Parma Colonia, known for its fresh and zesty notes.

“Woody and Earthy Scents (e.g., sandalwood, cedarwood, patchouli); These scents exude confidence, depth, and stability. Tom Ford’s Oud Wood captures the grounding essence of this category.

“Oriental and Spicy Scents (e.g., vanilla, amber, cinnamon); Sensual and mysterious, these fragrances project sophistication and allure. Yves Saint Laurent’s Opium is a quintessential example of this luxurious family.

“Aquatic and Fresh Scents (e.g., ocean breeze, rainwater); Clean and invigorating, these fragrances suggest a laid-back, free-spirited personality. Davidoff’s Cool Water embodies this refreshing profile.

“Choosing a fragrance from one of these families can subtly communicate your mood, intentions, and personality to those around you.

“The reality is that fragrance has stepped into a new spotlight and I tell my customers this each time they visit me in our wholesale outlet at Shop A 94, Akwa Ibom Plaza Trade Fair Complex along Lagos-Badagry Expressway. Perfumes are no longer confined to department store counters or private collections, perfume is now a global cultural conversation.

“TikTok creators rack up millions of views sharing their fragrance wardrobes. Celebrities don’t just endorse scents—they make entire fragrance campaigns into cinematic events. And consumers, seeking comfort in a world of uncertainty, are using perfume as a daily tool for self-expression and wellness. Meanwhile, for those asking for my personal contact I can be reached on +234 808 740 2121” Olowookere stated.

The high profile event with huge media presence had in attendance several successful perfume merchants who have been in the bussiness for donkey years including some investors who came from far away India, United Arab Emirates, France, and Libya, etc. They all applauded Adetayo for distinguishing himself at the gathering with his indepth knowledge and insightful contributions which captured the essence of the event.