The human skin: Fragrances and pheromones

Non-human mammalian pheromones are commonly used as perfumery ingredients. The actual purpose for using these compounds is as a fixative or carrier for the odor effects of the other ingredients as well as a contributor, in part, to the over-all scent of the perfume. Although such materials are used for their fixative and odor qualities rather than their pheromonal effects, perfumes are generally marketed as having the ability to enhance sexual attractiveness. While providing a scent may elicit a positive pleasant response, this should not be confused with a pheromone reponse. The attractive effect of perfumes is principally related to the effect of the pleasant scent. A more logical approach would be to use human pheromones which, for humans, are both more natural and more effective as true sensual attractants. It seems likely that implementation of this approach will constitute an important paradigm in the perfume industry as perfumery moves from the realm of art to that of science.