Sensegen’s fragrance survey reveals 74% of consumers prefer natural over synthetic scent

23 Jun 2022 --- Sensegen is unveiling its survey results providing insight into consumer understandings and perceptions of personal care and beauty products concerning scent.

“The era of natural perfumery is here and we are bringing nature back into perfumery by harnessing classic fragrance molecules from biology rather than deriving them from petroleum,” says Angelique Burke, senior perfumer at Sensegen.

Participant response was recorded after they were presented with a description and a sample of New Natural Fragrances.

According to the survey, 74% of respondents prefer the natural scent concept over the synthetic one. This represented a 5% improvement over the consumers’ prior preference before learning about the new natural fragrance.

“The results of the natural fragrance survey reveal consumer knowledge of natural fragrances and what is appealing, trend-setting in personal care and beauty products,” adds Burke.

Understanding natural fragrances
In an online poll, the company surveyed 1,000 consumers and discussed their beauty habits and personal care practices.

As part of the survey, respondents were also questioned about their attitudes toward and knowledge of personal care and beauty products, particularly regarding scented versus unscented products.

Additionally, the participants were questioned about label reading, factors influencing purchasing decisions and familiarity with and understanding of natural fragrances.

Sensegen’s New Naturals are bio-designed fragrances that are plant-based and environmentally sustainable.The survey reveals while 66% of consumers say natural fragrances were naturally derived fragrances, approximately 14% thought it meant no added fragrance and 5% say it was the same as unscented.

“From this natural fragrance survey, we concluded that there’s a gap in understanding and awareness regarding such terms used in labeling fragrance and fragrance-related statements,” says Natasha D’Souza, senior director, global sensory and consumer insights at Blue California.

“There has not been a better time for brands to make exceptional, [environmentally] sustainable products and educate consumers on how they are adopting a more natural position for the benefit of the planet and humankind

New Natural and alternative musk scent sources
Sensegen’s New Naturals are bio-designed fragrances that are plant-based and environmentally sustainable.

Although more complex than blends of essential oils, which have previously been the only option for those looking for natural fragrances, the company states they perform and “are as pleasant as synthetics.” According to Sensegen, no such fragrance initiative exists on the market today.

The range of plant-based musks produced by Sensegen, which offers perfumers the greatest natural substitute for synthetics, is a prime example of a New Natural.

The musk fragrance was outlawed due to the inhumane treatment of the musk deer, which served as its sole source. Afterward, perfumers had only the synthetic alternative for the highly desired musky olfactory character.

“The lack of availability of natural musks, combined with the ubiquity, performance and wide acceptability of this olfactive character, has created a huge challenge for natural fragrances to compete in the marketplace,” adds Burke.

“Today, Sensegen can offer a far-reaching range of natural and [environmentally] sustainable creations, which proudly stand their ground in the market.”

In other developments, Blue California Flavors and Fragrances rebranded as Sensegen after an 18-month incubation period. The company’s new market focus evolved into the three pillars of “taste, smell and beauty,” with launches set to debut in each category.

Edited by Nicole Kerr

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