Givaudan’s senior perfumer illustrates predictive algorithms that craft scalp malodor-fighting fragrances
07 Sep 2023 --- Fragrance and beauty manufacturer Givaudan recently launched ScalpSure, a platform of digital algorithms that enables perfumers to design fragrances that target the root of scalp and hair malodor. Personal Care Insights sits down with Sophie Rhodes, personal care senior perfumer at the company, diving into the details of its commercial use while comparing how products made using this system hold up to other fragrance technologies on the market.
How does ScalpSure differ from other solutions in the market that address scalp malodor?
Rhodes: This technology is unique as it has been built by intensely studying perfume ingredients’ behavior against malodor. Then fragrances as a whole were studied against malodor and our scientists found results that could be translated into an algorithm that helps perfumers create new scents that address scalp’s malodor and delight consumers.
This is a solid new way of designing fragrances, thanks to this algorithm. Among the existing counteractant solutions, ScalpSure is a scalp-centric one. Our Health and Wellbeing Team team played an important role in sampling from consumers’ scalps for a superior reconstitution.
With our scalp malodor reconstitution as a starting point, ScalpSure involved a deepened study of the behavior of several fragrance ingredients and formulas in determining not only the most compliant ingredients in suppressing the malodor but also the solutions that provide the most pleasant olfactive result.
Givaudan’s approach focuses on scalp malodor, linked to sebum, not environmental malodors.
What are the challenges and opportunities for ScalpSure in different regions and markets?
Givaudan’s approach focuses on scalp malodor, linked to sebum, not environmental malodors.
Rhodes: Regarding opportunities, ScalpSure answers a global concern (even if more in Asian countries), including hijab, veil, helmet, hat wearers, and even more, especially in some countries where consumers face high levels of heat and humidity.
The main challenge remains in the private nature of this concern, and we need to make sure that solutions are brought to everyone, in addition to pleasing all consumers globally, considering their tastes and cultural routines.
How did you involve consumers in the development process of ScalpSure and what were their feedbacks?
Rhodes: Scalp malodor involves various triggers (sweat, stress and head coverings) that need to be understood and embraced at the origin. By collecting samples directly from consumer’s heads, we secured a realistic approach to the issue from the beginning.
Home tests done by our consumers demonstrated superior efficiency and an amplified pleasant fragrant experience during all key stages, on wet and dry hair and including the day after hair washing.
For instance, our Indonesian panel was mainly concerned with a head covering and 73% of participants noted a higher efficiency in malodor counteraction, versus 27% for a non-ScalpSure compliant fragrance.
How does ScalpSure align with Givaudan’s purpose to enhance a healthy life with a love for nature?
Rhodes: The highly consumer-centric and holistic approach of ScalpSure demonstrates how Givaudan put the Human at the center of its philosophy and how our technologies and expertise serve it.
We tested some perfumery ingredients, including our captives, some biodegradable and some renewable. Our palette is improving daily toward the goal of having entire biodegradable and renewable ones.
By Venya Patel
