Why Do We Experience Nose Blindness and What Can We Do About It?

Our sense of smell gives us valuable information about the world around us. It alerts us to food, danger, changes in our environment and even emotional cues.

When fragrance molecules are detected by the receptors inside the nose, signals are sent to the olfactory bulbs, located high in the nasal cavity. These bulbs are rich in nerve endings that relay messages to areas of the brain responsible for memory, emotion and scent identification.

It is a deeply instinctive system. We follow our noses without even realising it.

But have you ever noticed that your perfume seems to disappear throughout the day, yet other people still compliment you on it? Or that you invested in a beautiful, high-quality reed diffuser, only to feel like you cannot smell it after a few hours?

It is not your perfume. It is not your diffuser.

It is your nose!

Working with essential oils means I experience nose blindness regularly while formulating products. It can be frustrating, but thankfully, I have a second opinion at home to confirm that everything still smells exactly as it should.

So what is nose blindness?

Nose blindness, also known as olfactory fatigue, is the temporary loss of sensitivity to a scent after prolonged exposure.

It is a completely natural sensory adaptation after being exposed to the same smell for a period of time, whether minutes or hours, the receptors in your nose reduce their response.

The brain essentially decides the scent is no longer “new” information and shifts its focus elsewhere.

This adaptation allows you to remain alert to new and potentially dangerous smells.

A common example is not noticing the natural scent of your own home. Cigarette smoke, pet odours or strong cooking aromas may be obvious to visitors, yet completely unnoticeable to you.

Your nose has simply adapted.

Can you prevent nose blindness?

No, and that is a good thing.

Olfactory fatigue is an important protective mechanism. It ensures you can detect hazards such as smoke, gas leaks or other environmental dangers.

Nose blindness can last for as long as you remain around a particular scent. However, if you leave the area for a while and return later, you will notice the fragrance again, at least temporarily.

How To Reduce Olfactory Fatigue At Home

While you cannot entirely prevent nose blindness, you can reduce its effects when using home fragrance.

Here are a few simple ways to reset your senses:

• Alternate the essential oil blends you use in your bath or electric diffuser

• Rotate reed diffusers between rooms occasionally

• Step outside for fresh air to reset your sense of smell

• Place your diffuser in a room you do not spend long periods in, such as a hallway, downstairs toilet, utility room or home office

By introducing subtle changes, you give your nose something new to process, helping you continue enjoying your favourite scents.

If you haven't experienced Lib’s Aromatherapy mood-boosting essential oil blends yet, explore my online shop and discover a fragrance to transform your space.