The TRUTH About Perfume Addiction! 😱 Let's Get Real!🤔 It's Never Enough😳

[@pauletteyoung112]

You hit it Carmen. I am trying to cut back - buying only what I can return and getting only travel sizes/samples. This addiction doesn’t really hurt anyone but it does hurt your budget.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes!! It's hurting our budget 😅 that's right it hurts 😥

[@justStardust940]

the problem is HYPE. with the internet, we all want to know what all the hype is about. perfume is the most problematic because you have to actually buy it and receive the item to actually even get a sense of what the hype is about, unlike with clothing, shoes, etc. the solution for me is to go cold turkey. i can't justify spending money on something so useless. just shower daily and wear deodorant. this was never a problem before online shopping, when people would go sniff perfumes at the store and then buy one until they finish it before doing it again. before online shopping, even if they own many perfumes at once, they never blind buy. blind buying is literally gambling, which is why it is addicting.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes! The hype and the blind buying are so addictive 😩 That's exactly how I was able to stop these last few months. I stopped blind buying and stopped paying attention to they hype. That really took away most of the desire for me! You have some really great points!

[@missfabidia]

I used to have shopping addiction 10 years ago, bags and clothes...so as Im starting this fragrance journey, Im very concious of my spending habits.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes! I found perfume sucked me back in to those toxic habits. I wish I would have been weary of it since the get go. You're already doing well if you are aware of it! Best of luck!

[@dianasonabudget]

How did you stop your shopping addiction before?

[@aggiaggi8306]

oh gosh this is so true 🙊...before perfume it was clothes, skincare, makeup... This month I've bought 13 perfumes - it is out of control. I would like to limit myself to 1 perfume per month

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes once a month is a good place to start! Best of luck with your goals! I have a video in the description on how to Enjoy your Collection without spending More money! Hope it helps

[@Crebaby_23]

It’s definitely not about the perfume per se same with makeup,skin care,any other crazy shopping habit we have… it’s definitely a coping mechanism and I am speaking for Myself it’s like a high… the feeing almost always fades after you purchase or after receiving it… hence why a month later we aren’t even reaching for the perfume we wanted so bad… I’m Working on that now 🙃

[@CarmenScentrix]

So true! The excitement fades and we're on to our next thing to aquire! Best of luck to you on your goals! I think being aware of it is already being on the right path!

[@natnonsenseasmr]

Oh yeah buying is the shopping addiction, blind buying hits the gambling addiction. But the sensory experience itself is a positive lol

[@CarmenScentrix]

That makes total sense that blind buying hits the gambling addiction! I used to love that part! Honestly that's how I removed a lot of the "joy" from it. I stopped blind Buying and I was able control the spending on perfume that way.

[@slayerofsatan1049]

I do have a fragrance addiction. However, I have learned not to blind buy. I’m Addicted to my favorites now. I have about 23 favorites and I want them in my collection. If I don’t like perfumes I bought in the past I now use them as air fresheners. I think it’s very important to bring awareness to spending too much money. I keep my fav perfumes next to my bed. I like to smell them before I go to sleep. It brings me back those sweet memories. ❤

[@CarmenScentrix]

I love that! Your addiction sounds like it's more to scent than buying and that sounds healthy to me! That's where I want be!

[@slayerofsatan1049]

@@CarmenScentrix yep you understand perfectly. I believe fragrance is a heavenly gift, 💝 and it transports us to somewhere beautiful. When I was homeless for two years, I lost everything. When I was homeless, I longed for perfume. I went two years without any makeup or perfume or clothes etc. I was so sad. I believe we are royalty. God wants us to enjoy feeling beautiful and smelling beautiful. He created the notes after all… when you look at it through heavenly lens, you can enjoy your collection more without guilt. Heaven is filled with the most beautiful fragrances, and we will have what we love forever. Peace and love to you. 🙏

[@almatoledo1608]

Completely agree, one extreme love replaces another extreme love. The love is not the issue it is what lies behind the action. Always post!

[@CarmenScentrix]

It seems like an obvious thing but I don't know why it took me some time to realize it for myself. It's been years of jumping from one thing to another for me. Being 100% honest though, when I don't have a hyperfocus is usually only at my lowest moments. Sometimes the hyperfocuses have literally helped me pull out of a depressive episode. So it's not the thing I'm focusing on, it's the bad habits.

[@TinyDancer01]

This is why i like decants. I can try different scents all the time relativly guilt free. Especially the more niche scents, a 20 dollar blind buy on a 5ml decant is much easier to cope with than a 200-500 dollar full bottle. And i have so many scents that even though they are mostly 5-10 ml decants I can actually use up and finish. Having like 50 100ml bottles they would mostly go bad before i can use it. I find even scents i really like, a decant is enough because of the fact I try so many and have so many. The only thing you dong get with this method is the beautiful display of the full bottles but, its not about that for me, its more about trying new scents and having lots of options to choose from for my scent of the day.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Decants are definitely a smarter way to go if you crave variety and novelty! Having all of these bottles has its downfalls! You fall out of love with so many over time! I'm leaning more towards testing perfumes when I get curious now.

[@rekanova3757]

You are spot on! Decants and samples should be recommended more instead of full bottle blind buys.

[@Elena-er7zp]

I hate shopping. But I love fragrance. The juice itself is what brings me joy, happiness, good feelings. I am addicted to those feelings. I am a nurse, work in a hospital and during the pandemic the only thing that made me happy and reminded me that this hell on earth would eventually end was the one spray of Tom Ford Jasmin Rouge on my chest. I would exit a room, take off my PPE and drop my head down to my chest to take a deep breath of beauty and luxury. During pandemic, I stopped traveling. Those funds were directed towards fragrance. I still have not returned to travelling but I have reduced my frag spending by a lot. I spent around $1800 in 2023 on this hobby. It is a lot but I bought 10 new bottles, 5 travel sizes and 6 discovery set plus around 20ish decants. So I ended up experience sometjing like 100 different fragrances last year. Worth it to me. I will continue low buy this year. Have already bought two bottles - they were both under $50. I think I am ok spending $2k a year on this hobby since it brings me such bliss ❤

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes! Perfume can be so comforting sometimes! The fact that you have a budget and are being responsible is the best way to keep it a positive experience! You're already ahead of it!

[@erikkasepiphany]

I was addicted to buying and collecting makeup, I even decided to work at Sephora. But I ended up hitting a wall and stopped buying makeup and started buying fragrances instead. I traded one addiction for another. Whooops

[@AbenaAbuah]

This got me rolling on the floor 😂. At least you’re smell good with fragrances. Good switch

[@CarmenScentrix]

Do you still work at Sephora? Yeah its so easy to go from one thing to another because although we enjoy makeup and perfume it's more about buying and collecting. You got this though! Best of luck to you!

[@erikkasepiphany]

@@CarmenScentrix no I work at Bath and Bodyworks now. I’m going to try to do a no buy this year, which for me means avoiding all stores like TJ Maxx, Sephora, Ulta and ect.

[@flower1990-B]

You hurt if you spend money you supposed to use on something else. This addiction is the same as alcoholism or drugs addiction . Can destroy your life.

[@grazynacohen9067]

Not only it can be financially devastating, but excessive use can also destroy one’s health. Research on carcinogens and endocrine disrupters in fragrances. Scary 😧

[@Danit.Talkscentswithme]

You have a point Carmen. I use my perfume storage boxes like some would use a cigarette patch. I can’t buy anymore when there is no more room. In the spring, I re direct my attention to planting flowers etc.. because you’re right, I do have a reason I like perfume. I need the aromatherapy, however, my situation has been pretty severe so I don’t feel bad about collecting perfume. I’m about to share why, My husbands cancer has robbed him of the ability for us to be physical in our marriage. I’m tearing up as I type this but it’s therapeutic at the same time. It’s been almost 10 years because it affected him before he even knew he had cancer. So, I’m only 49 and I don’t remember what it feels like. I get sad sometimes but we are happy in so many other ways and I meant what I said when I said for better or worse and I’m in the worst I guess, or was really more when I watched him go through the treatments, it was awful, so long story short, yes, perfumes help me cope, they remind me of my femininity, lifts my mood when I need it to. It’s hard, what we are going through , so, I don’t regret my perfumes at all but I try to stay within my reasonable boundaries and I think I’ve done that pretty well. ♥️ thanks for listening and giving me an outlet. I know there’s got to be more women like me out there trying to cope. 🙏🏻It’s hard lying next to your husband and you can’t be physically intimate with him. 🥺

[@CarmenScentrix]

I'm sorry you went through that. It must be heartbreaking to see your loved one struggle. 💔 I can see how perfume can be such a mood lifting experience that reminds you of your Femininity. You deserve to have that for yourself! I wish you all the best! I often think of you 2 and I hope you're doing well! ❤️ I'm not sure if I asked you already but do you have Instagram?

[@Danit.Talkscentswithme]

@@CarmenScentrix thank you, it’s something we both struggle with it’s sad for him too but we do have fun together in other ways . Perfume could never replace anything really , I don’t expect that but it does help . Just like you said , like aromatherapy. I think about you too and your precious family. I have an instagram but I don’t use it. I honestly don’t want multiple social media accounts. I want to focus on KZbin only. Videos are coming soon. My husband is a contractor so he’s always doing projects and one of them is upstairs and it’s noisy in here lol I have some good videos coming I promise. 🥰

[@hknulzesnulnegen]

You are totally right! I have an extreme addictive personality and lately is has been food (last 2 years) and now fragrances. Only one month in and already spend over 1000 euros on originals and clones. It is a hobby, but also an escape. I lost my job 5 months ago because of anxiety and depression/burnout and this past month I discovered the fragrance World. I watch videos all day, search the internet, place orders and I love the feeling that a package is on it's way. I should really quit though, my savings will only last so far. Also it seems the perfumes give me a headache lol. Thank you so much for the video, I want OUT! I already beat alcohol, cigarettes (both 7 years ago) and Instagram and FB since January. But I keep finding new addictions 😢 Have a wonderful day! 🌞 Greetings from the Netherlands 🇳🇱

[@yasmindavidson5171]

This is so very insightful and true. I think so many of us have fallen in love with fragrances over the pandemic mainly, and as our lives are in many ways, still forever changed, low key traumatised infact from the pandemic, probably we still buy habitually. On a personal level I still like to listen to varying fragrance reviewers ( not the more grandiose ones, who I feel have started to take themselves far too seriously and elevate themselves to very arrogant levels), but the ones who are humble, relatable, not constantly hauling and decluttering, or getting loads of stuff in PR. As a listener, more recently when I hear 'im obsessed with these fragrances, top 10 for life, top 10 for winter etc, it sounds like chalk on a blackboard in terms of predictablity, and also interest. Im kind of over it. I DONT need it in my life, I wont die without it !. So im on a low buy this year. Fragrance does bring me joy, but too much consumerism doesnt. It just makes me wonder how Ill use everything up!. I plan on noting down what I plan to buy rather than buying it instantly. Waiting ( because its not going to be discontinued in a few months time), seeing if I still want it , after another 3 or 4 are also probably on my radar by then, and choosing carefully. Pacing myself, and setting aside time inbetween 'i think id really like that' to 'add to cart'. I feel it will take away the instant gratification and make me more mindful and appreciative of what I have and what I may have in the future. ❤

[@CarmenScentrix]

That was beautifully put!! I also enjoy fragrance but not consumerism! That's where I've been really conflicted lately! 😐 You have some great ideas/plans to shop more mindfully! I totally agree and plan on being very thoughtful with my process of purchasing! Best of luck on your goals! Please feel free to come back and share how it's going because I would love to know!

[@HiddenTreasure09]

FACTS 👏🏾💯🎯The truth has to be told. The good, bad and ugly. I appreciate you addressing this because it’s a real issue. You don’t have to sugar coat anything. Sometimes we all need these reminders to snap us out of whatever bad habits or toxic behaviors we’re doing. This definitely resonates with me and I agree with you 💯! It’s so easy to get sucked into addictions and over consumption in this society. We have to maintain some sort of personal accountability and balance. There are far more important things in my life than just perfume, makeup, skincare etc and I want to enjoy other things as well. Who wants to be broke; smelling & looking good but you can’t do anything else or travel/vacation because all the money went towards an addiction. We have to have boundaries and know our limits with our finances in mind. It’s definitely a wake up call and cautionary tale especially if it’s not within your budget anyway.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes!! Thank you! I'm glad you resonated with the message. You're so right, what's the point of looking and smiling good with no money left over to enjoy ourselves? It's definitely part of society to always be consuming and consuming. I'm really trying to break out of that cycle but it's tougher than it looks!

[@b25mech]

Thank you for sharing all this. I just started collecting perfume in August of 2023, it’s now March 2024. I have bought maybe 20 perfumes & MANY BBW fragrances. Eeeeek! I do love my collection but that should really be enough for a while.

[@CarmenScentrix]

You are so welcome! Yes save yourself while you still can! Lol. Our taste changes the more things we try so take it slow and enjoy what you have while you still love it. ❤️

[@nikkij5871]

I am not offended at all. I also have ADHD. Anyway, I know I have a fragrance addiction and I am trying to make small changes. I am no longer blind buying and no more back- ups. I am also trying to use up some of the stuff I have this year. I am only buying what I absolutely love from now on. It's small steps but it is something. ❤

[@CarmenScentrix]

That's exactly all what I'm doing as well! You are so stunning! You should make a YT channel too!

[@nikkij5871]

@@CarmenScentrix Thank you. Everyone keeps telling me to start a KZbin channel. Maybe I will.

[@jinevive]

It's like the Universe had opened up and your video just tapped me on my shoulder. You're right about the real problem... they are never bags or shoes or perfumes. And this vid is not offensive to me at all, awakening, yessss. I knew it became a problem when on a daily I can't even decide what perfume to wear😅. I'm sick to my gut. Im getting better tho. I'm passed the denial stage. Thanks for this❤

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes, it can get so overwhelming if we focused on buying more than wearing and now we have huge collections! 😬 So many choices isn't always a good thing. I'm so glad you found this video helpful. 💗

[@janiceg7661]

I think this is spot on. I had a decent fragrance collection, but when my husband died, I multiplied that exponentially. I feel calmer now, and am keeping a wish list, to evaluate later if I want any scents on the list. I will say fragrance does change my mood. I was grieving, obsessed with chocolate scents, and I really believe it’s not a coincidence chocolate and Valentine’s Day go together because that activates the heart chakra. I’ve been heart broken over my loss and scent has lightened my mood.

[@CarmenScentrix]

I'm so sorry for you loss. 💔😞 Perfume can have uplifting qualities. The chocolate and heart chakra makes total sense! 💖

[@KaareneRNHealthLifeCoach]

So true. Great video. I think with social media it has gotten way worse since we see everyone else has it. Thank you for sharing. 💕💕

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes Social media plays a huge role!! Social media and influences will be addressed in an upcoming video!

[@BertRussell4711]

There's a reason why FragranceBuy puts the words "Your little red box of happiness has arrived!" on their shipping boxes. 😏

[@CarmenScentrix]

They should replace happiness with dopamine 😂

[@BertRussell4711]

​@@CarmenScentrix Exactly. 👍🏻🙂

[@Catherinewangari-c2f]

Thank you for sharing ❤ ...working on myself on this perfume addiction...as i prepare to declutter 😊

[@CarmenScentrix]

I've enjoyed selling it on Mercari! It helps to focus on making some money back!

[@sadesade111]

You hit the nail on the head with this video. And no, you were not offensive. Lol. You’re right, it’s not the perfume that’s the problem, it’s our habits, because if it’s wasn’t perfume, we’d be overindulging in something else. Lol. I’ve acquired over 100 bottles within the span of a few years, spending thousands of dollars. Before that it was a makeup addiction, then clothes, now its nice purses. Thankfully I’ve ben able stop buying and and is now way more conscious about my spending. I’m hoping to downsize my collection a bit though, maybe to sound 30 or so. I still love collection though, getting to enjoy them still brings me joy.

[@CarmenScentrix]

It's been the same for me! From one indulgence to another! It's all things I do truly love. I'm glad you were able to get a handle on it before it got out of hand. Feel free to share any tips you have! They would be much appreciated!

[@mylinhhoangova8724]

This video was great. I am so happy that someone speaks up. I noticed that perfume youtubers barely mention the price. Yes, they say it within 1s that is cheap or expensive but if its something really expensive and I am talking about 100$+ price, you should emphasize it. I just bling bought 2 perfumes from Indie houses (Sphinx and Amyris) and total costs was 250$+ and both of them were disappointment. I cannot even return them (I am trying with Sphinx but I am confident I will not get 100% refund). So lesson learned, I am not saying I will stop buying perfumes or stop watching videos but I will stick to my gut and will not purchase any perfume above 100$ as blind buy ever again.

[@CarmenScentrix]

I only have a handful over $100 in my large collection because 75% of my collection was blind buys. It's way too much to risk it on blind buys. Blind buying is definitely part of the addiction. I was able to get my shopping under control by removing blind buying. That kind of took out most of the fun out for my brain.

[@mylinhhoangova8724]

Could not agree more🙏🙏I am with you. I also have perhaps 3 perfumes over 100$ and I am done with blind buys. Thank you once again for this video. Looking forward for more contents😊😊

[@chanelbabe-gina6674]

You’re speaking your truth. If people can’t handle that, they should scroll by.

[@almatoledo1608]

I am doing better simply by not buying (succumbing to) so many samples this year.

[@HappinessSparkles]

You hit the nail on the head ,perfume was my way of coping during the pandemic and now I’ve gone back to handbags 👜 🤦‍♀️Still loving my perfumes ❤

[@CarmenScentrix]

Handbags was my thing for a while almost like 10 years ago. I went to vintage bags in the last few years too right before it was perfume. Sometimes only moving on to the next thing, helps us better evaluate things.

[@HappinessSparkles]

@@CarmenScentrix this is such a great video ! Good job 👍

[@myravandasler9435]

Yesss, I’m just in the process of getting addicted to this and you hit a spot. Thank you for this, because it got me thinking….

[@CarmenScentrix]

I'm so glad! I wish someone would have told me so many things before I got started! Don't get caught up with buying and looking for the next thing more than enjoying fragrances!

[@tiffanybyer1148]

You’re onto something here I went from hoarding and collecting over buying make up. Like I bought so much make up I don’t know what to do with it like I literally have drawers and drawers and drawers a whole room full of it and now I’m doing the same thing with perfume and the sensory overload I get each time I buy a blind by and I love it I guess so excited that I got a good one and then I’m buying five more and it’s a whole thing it’s a whole thing for sure I agree hundred percent with you it’s an addiction

[@CarmenScentrix]

I had the same issue with makeup! I stopped for like 5 years. I finally threw out most of my stuff because it was so old and as soon as I started replacing everything, I went too much too fast. 🙃 You should declutter and sell before it gets too old. Most of my stuff was super expired. Best of luck with your goals!

[@rhiannoncarney]

Same girl.went from makeup to fragrance. Crazy how there is so many people who are doing the same thing

[@food2430]

Video starts at 1:29

[@MsWhitegirl16]

I recently got reintroduced to the love of fragrance, again. I’ve always loved perfume. But now it’s become my “hobby” lol which is kinda fun! When I was pregnant I had to stop wearing perfume and burning candles because they made me so nauseous lol 😂 no offense here! I needed this actually

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thanks for sharing!.Yes, It can be a rabbit hole once you start!

[@Shalayaaaaaa]

Oooof girl you’re so right about having other“harmless” beauty addictions prior to this one. + the dopamine rushes from blind buying. Also, as best as you can, try to silence the noise from the viewers. If no one hates your content, no one will love it. Keep bringing you and your opinions to light. It’s honestly refreshing. This is my first (and definitely not last) of your videos 🫶🏽

[@CarmenScentrix]

Oh man that's soo true. If no one hates it, then no one loves it! 😲 Never thought of it that way. I'm always scared of scaring people off but I guess that's also how I'll find my people. Honestly, thank you for that! 🤗

[@Shalayaaaaaa]

@@CarmenScentrix You’re so welcome!

[@9staylo]

This is a really good take on this. I was battling within myself about this habit, so this was actually very helpful. Looking at our habits around buying, rather than the actual perfume itself.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes! I had a lot of shame for my over spending and large collection and I didn't want to attach that to perfume itself.

[@laurieeyebee]

I am a stroke patient and have had many caregivers in my home. I had about 30 perfumes. I no longer have these: Dune, Kate Spade Walk on Air, Perry Ellis 360, Sweet Honesty, Amazing Grace, or Stella McCartney Pop Bluebell, all of which I bought when I was working, and loved. I can't do much but I CAN smell good, but it's going to take awhile to save up to repurchase them. Someone helped themself. Too bad I didn't have a nanny cam.

[@iFancyGlam]

I'm so sorry. Some people can be so nasty. I know you will get better ones in your collection which you can create new memories with.

[@kumsonssamba8237]

Yep guilty as charged. When I sow the title i just knew it’s for me. I live in Africa without a job and the little allowance I have, I spend it all on perfumes and shoes 😂. The addition is real.

[@tinamccormick4679]

I feel like it's a feel-good rush. Everything in moderation. I over shop.

[@PaolaBianka]

Yessss… sometimes, the shopping takes over the “perfume” love…

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes and then we don't even show enough love to what we have but just move on to the next!

[@danielsutze]

Amen!!!! We chase the next great scent while the great scent we were crazy about, last month, is barely being used. And by “we” I mean “I.” 🤦🏾‍♀️

[@marie-joseecharest1735]

In the « how your perfume makes you feel » forum subject on Fragrantica, we often see: sexy, put together, clean, like I have my s* together, happy, etc. Spending money don’t make you feel like that.

[@anaisabelzepeda8410]

I can’t stop buying fragrances, at least now I started buying small bottles 50ml instead 100ml. To be able to finish them. I just love them ❤

[@CarmenScentrix]

Buying smaller bottles makes more sense! Although it's not always the best deal, it's more practical.

[@intentional-joy]

This video is speaking to me! I rediscovered my love of fragrances after I had long COVID-19 last year and lost my smell/taste for months. That period of time felt like forever and I started to feel hopeless. Both senses gradually returned, but it took awhile for them to sharpen back up. I began to delve into the land of perfumes as my smell returned. I'm in my mid-20s, so I was rarely purchasing perfumes before -- more so body and fine fragrance mists. Not only did my depressive episodes and bouts of loneliness tempt me to purchase, but also having a well-paying job with great benefits. I didn't go too crazy with spending, as I purchased several perfume oil flankers of niche fragrances and sample/travel sizes of perfumes. A couple weeks ago I asked myself: "I only have have one body, so why do I need so many fragrances?"; especially considering that I have narrowed down my favorite scents to about 2-3 perfumes/mists. I made another perfume purchase yesterday, ironically -- LOL. It was for an EDP and it is definitely affordable (under $30). Moving forward, I plan to implement no-buy weeks/months for products, generally. My love of fragrance and body goods will remain, but realistically I need to use up at least most of the items I have before supplementing my inventory. One thing I have found that helps is to go in-store (where applicable), and smell the scents there to really decide. In the era of online-shopping, it is *SO* easy to blind-buy without getting the full fragrance experience. Buying without smelling/using can definitely lead to an overflow of products, as many of us know. I have done many purchases with Klarna/Afterpay just to feel like I lessened the blow to my checking account (even when the money was there -- sometimes, even in abundance, LOL!). We deserve to incorporate joy in our lives, but sometimes we have to be realistic with ourselves, as you mentioned in this video. Awesome thoughts, and you have earned a new subscriber! 🙂 Cheers to us smelling great, but also being financially-responsible adults!

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes! To everything you said! It's a fun hobby but it's also important to make good financial choices. That's exactly why I did the after pay thing. I could bare to let the money go all at once. It's just tricking myself though!🤦‍♀️ Blind Buying is definitely the problem! That's how I ended up with way too many. 99% of the time I go smell a new perfume, I don't come home with it. The curiosity is gone and then I only order if it truly impressed me. I would not have bought about 75% of my blind buys! Even though I like them now that I have them. Very interesting point!

[@vanillabean_000]

I think many of us having this problem with perfume and makeup and skincare etc... and social media and watching youtube definitely fuels it for me. I was on a no buy for 2 years and it was going well too and i actually discovered perfumes this year. Like recently perfumes have been really big and I did not even own 1 perfume like last year 😂 and now i have like 30. And i stopped because I spent all my budget for it so I can't buy any more this entire 2024. Until maybe black friday???? 😅 Whats weird too, i purchased mostly all affordable perfumes just to have more? The only expensive perfume i bought was bianco latte. You know the hype. And although I do love almost everything I got, with the exception of like 4 middle eastern perfumes, and I do use my perfumes everyday but after stepping back I definitely regret some of the purchases.

[@CarmenScentrix]

The same happened to me! I remember buying them even if I only liked them for the sake of growing my Collection! Bianco Latte is on my wishlist because I love a milky scent! I'll wait until the hype does down though. Waiting until black Friday seems like a good plan! You could also get rid of some of them and make some money back. I sell on Mercari and it's pretty easy. I have a video on that coming soon!

[@mtht12]

I really enjoy these videos. I feel like I'm receiving some good advice from a friend. Thank you for this.

[@CarmenScentrix]

I'm so glad I could help! That means a lot! ❤️

[@jlbeauty.reviews]

"I'm just intense." Felt that with my soul. 😂 Loved this video. So real and transparent. Subscribed. 💕

[@CarmenScentrix]

Awh Thanks for subbing! You're my kind of people 💕

[@keenaweste6217]

Hi from 🇹🇹 Trinidad. You are spot on in your assessment, the perfume isn't the problem, our addiction habit is...I am very much aware that I am using fragrances as a coping mechanism to deal with stress and to re-focus my attention. There's no way that I can use all that's in my collection. This video is a god-send!

[@tiffanybyer1148]

We are the problem and I do agree that it’s probably rooted into something deeper and we are getting a sense of happiness that we’re not getting somewhere else you’re calling it like it is and I appreciate that

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thank you! I do have additional videos talking about the deeper issues too.

[@tiffanybyer1148]

@@CarmenScentrix I will have to watch them because the struggle is real and I appreciate you bringing light to the situation because I don’t think enough people are talking about it

[@26laf]

Interesting topic. I do think it can be a problem if you have so many perfumes that you aren't really enjoying wearing them all, you can only use one or two a day! If you have hundreds, most of them will be very rarely used. Also storage space can be a problem. I'm trying to keep my collection small, but I do like to buy samples and decants to try new things. Most of them I don't like enough to buy a full bottle, but it gives me that experience of trying new scents.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes there's so many problems with large collections! I've mentioned all of the downfalls in other videos too. Sampling is a good way to avoid some issues. Thank you for sharing.

[@mv848]

People buy that shit mostly because they (we) like the bottles. Honestly. Be honest! I buy and collect perfume bc I like the excitement + *because of the bottles* . That shit all smells the same* in dry-down. * Obviously not "same"... ...but you get the gist

[@heidikitt4780]

I took my sense of smell for granted until 2021 when I got covid. I lost my sniffer for almost 2 yrs. When it started coming back vanilla was one of the smells that came back. So of course I started buying perfumes with strong vanilla notes. In 2023 I bought 12 bottles. So far this yr another 3. I don’t plan on stopping now. 😂

[@CarmenScentrix]

That's not so bad from my perspective. Sounds like you have a pretty good handle on things. Best of luck to you! 💕

[@Msyinett]

I get travel sizes first, then a full size bottle if I use it up. I'm okay with buying samples, too. But I don't go into debt or break my budget over it. I also stopped the collection mentality

[@CarmenScentrix]

Those are all excellent points! I don't want to identify as a perfume collector either! I can't undo that title currently but maybe in the near future. Travel sizes and samples is a great way to go! It definitely scratches the itch of the desire for the perfume!

[@iamsahra]

It is Like Aroma Therapy for me 😂

[@danielsutze]

No lies told. I’ve probably saved 1k so far, since the year started. I’ve let fragrances sitting in my carts for days and later I would closed all tabs. I am sampling more, buying smaller bottles when possible, and also decants. This hobby is….well, you’ve said it all.😂

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes! You're definitely doing well already! Closing those tabs once you have stuff in your cart takes willpower! 💪

[@alexlauria4076]

You are not addicted to perfume you are addicted to buying them

[@rosemastrosimone3898]

I can stop anytime I want to. 😂😂😂 But seriously, Carmen this was a very eloquent explanation of how there is much more to the over-purchasing of fragrances. & why a lot of us do it. Also thank you for being so honest about your own experience!!! 💜

[@silla.1902]

It's because perfume addiction is a friendly addiction. You may love clothes, but half of fashion styles don't look good on your body type. You may love shoes, but most shoes feel uncomfortable. Fragrances are open to everyone. You enter a fragrance store and it's as if all the bottles scream "Try me! Take me home with you!"

[@CarmenScentrix]

So many fragrances want to come home with me!!

[@br_easydoesit]

So insightful and a little hard to hear tbh 😂 I’m on the cusp of facing some hard (and embarrassing) truths because my fragrance spending is off the rails. Your point about perfume not being the problem is on point. I only have so much skin, right? Having a collection so large that there’s no way I can use it all is impractical. I’m going to focus on enjoying what I have instead of bringing in more. 🌸

[@HninSi-85]

On point. thanks for sharing. I just started to collect perfumes and this is a reminder to stop my problem before it gets bigger. I need to limit to two buys per year moving forward. 😂

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes! Get ahead of it because it's addictive if you're not aware of yourself. The hunt for the next thing becomes stronger than the love for perfume! My Collection got out of hand very quickly and I won't be able to enjoy most of it before it expires so I'm cutting back so much this year!

[@amandahobbes9831]

Great video and I think a lot of us are in the same boat! I get fixated and hyperfocused on things and I do want to slow down on my purchases this year while continuing to sniff in store when I can and enjoy my current collection! The other thing I'm trying to curb this year is online clothing shopping. I'm pretty good at making returns but that's a chore I could do without...and I think we are more willing to keep something that's not a "heck yes!" if we buy it online.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes!! I find myself trying to keep things when I already have them here at home. I think that's what the retailers are counting on, that's why they offer "free returns". There's so many fun ways to enjoy what we have without getting more. I posted a video if you're interested. Sniffing in local stores helps me avoid blind buys so I think that's a great idea. When sniffing at the store I always ask myself if it's better than anything I have a home and the answer is always no.

[@andressa7405]

Thank you so much for sharing. I went into a 20.000 debt on the pandemic because of online shopping. Perfume was a part of it. I stopped for a while but now I’ve been so stressed out by work and life that I’m feeling like buying new fragrances to feel happy 😭

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yeah it can really suck you in and then cycles of shame can come in and the only way to feel better is to shop more! I've been there. Wishing you healing and sending you love. ❤️

[@starsighting7167]

Goal this year is to only buy perfumes I LOOOVE because I really dont wanr to wastw money on like. Plus Flankers are a waste of money tbh

[@CarmenScentrix]

You know all of the designers will be coming out with the usual Flankers! I'm also working on staying away unless I happen to fall in love!

[@annacama8313]

This is truth. I find myself trying to hide just how much I spent on fragrances and my husband never used to notice until he noticed lol. One day I went from 10 to 15 to 50 to 60 bottles. I cut down and only have around 40 right now but the itch to buy is UNREAL. I don't even know how majority of them smell. I only focus now on collecting samples if I can. I almost splurged the amount of another 13 full bottle and when I got the sample I didn't even know what I was smelling it smelled like paper on me. It's a trap and the marketing is also so so good that it's dangerous

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes it can get overwhelming really fast! The itch to buy when it's your current obsession is so real! That happens when we accumulate too fast, we don't really get to know what we have. I'm working on that currently and also letting go of things I don't love. Even if I do like them, that's hard too. Stay strong and best of luck on your goals!

[@gracenight5348]

Gosh, I searched you out after watching Denise Adore. Watching this video now makes me a subby. I have always loved perfume, but in the last four months, I have acquired so much. It helped me curate my nose, and Yes, it filled the void and hurt the pocket. I plan on curating my collection to scents that work for me and not buying 20 vanillas or cherry fragrances. Thank you for this video

[@Shalayaaaaaa]

Same here! Came from Denise and staying for this thoughtful beauty 😊

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thank you for subbing! It means a lot to me💗 "Fills the void and hurts the pocket" is the perfect way to put it! 👌 Yes on not having 20 of the same things because at the end of the day there's likely only a couple you want to reach for before all of the other ones!

[@gracenight5348]

@CarmenScentrix Absolutely, and I will buy from where I can return and do travel sizes if I want. Above all, "Self-discipline"

[@sonjalee4502]

I completely agree with this. It’s exactly why I have a perfume addiction, besides the fact that I love fragrance. 💖

[@CarmenScentrix]

Same here!

[@vikm1341]

No its not offensive. It can be a problem. Even if you have $ for it you wont go through all those bottles before they expire.

[@cutegull]

I love my perfume addiction. I don’t do alcohol, smoking, drugs or even eating at restaurants. Honestly even an average restaurant for two these days would add up and be spent in 30 min. What works for me is: 1) I have a set pocket money every month I don’t go beyond that, 2) I work, and cook very hard (prep too many family meals so I reward myself with both perfume and clothes, 3) I look for sales, then I buy for the ones mostly on sales, 4) no matter how good I don’t go for the ones with never any sales or deals such as Channel, 5) buy from their own website, that usually have good deals. But I love my perfumes :-)

[@JJ-nn9de]

The whole "It's not about the perfume" thing- definitely not!! I know that, I think a lot of us do, lol. I have always have a thing with becoming super obsessed with something and than wanting to collect it. Personally, I have had destructive addictive behaviors in the past (my much younger years) and over time it has manifested in collecting (mostly books). As I have gotten older (mid 30's now) I have been able to gain more control and have been better about setting boundaries for myself with collecting. Perfume has been a thing for me on and off throughout the years. My collection isn't crazy huge, but it's decent, definitely have dropped some cash on it. My current limit (because I too do the pay over 6 months no interest thing, lol) is $300 and then I have to wait till it's paid down to $50.I really like and agree with what you said about perfume in particular giving that dopamin hit on many levels. It's different than other items because it can be used over a fairly long period of time. Truly does hit all the senses over and over again in a pleasurable way.

[@carriej9651]

You make so many good points. Thanks for the insights! I think being aware of all these aspects of the problem will help me get over it I hope.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Glad it was helpful! I also like being aware! It's the first step towards getting better!

[@daniaa099]

You read my ADHD mind! You hit it right on the nail with all that you said gf ! It’s never enough for me and I’m Poor and this is becoming a serious problem to have such an expensive way to cope lol 😪

[@CarmenScentrix]

Adhd and hyperfocus is definitely part of the problem! We are dopamine addicts! It is such and expensive hobby!

[@CristinaV.Quinones]

I have a channel, I buy perfumes but only once I have had a wild amount- I now sell what I don’t use and am very careful with what I buy; I’ve kinda dropped the fragrance videos because I don’t care to stay relevant in trends, I care to have a good fragrance wardrobe. You are 100% right through- people are chasing dopamine

[@LoveandMisses]

I am sure can be a real problems for others if you are maxing out credit cards . It can be very stressful for your family and spouse.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes that's where the problems come in, in the spending! It can get out of hand.

[@kara8911]

Oh my gosh I love you! Haha! It is definitely about the dopamine, and shopping addiction in general. That’s what I made a blanket serious low buy (all items for myself, house, and even kids just in case I would transfer it to any of those).

[@CarmenScentrix]

Transferring my addiction to buying things happens to me all the time. I literally will just find something to replace the dopamine 😒

[@kara8911]

@@CarmenScentrix exactly! I’m being super careful with that. I’ve been buying some home items because we redid bathroom and are working on home improvements but trying to be super careful not to go overboard. My husband is really good at providing accountability with it…maybe too good! Haha!

[@CarmenScentrix]

@@kara8911 same! My husband really calls me out on it. So I just keep a don't ask don't tell type of policy. 😂 I want to fix soo many things in my house and focus on that for now. My house needs my attention more than perfume!

[@kara8911]

@@CarmenScentrix my husband didn’t used to say anything at all until he started to notice the hoard (I don’t hide it but we’ve been married a long time and we have a lot of trust with spending) and then I told him how guilty I felt and I wanted to stop and he’s been all over me about it since then! Haha! Us too, our house is a work in progress.

[@sharonlee2005]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, you hit the nail on the head. I am addicted to shopping and I love fragrance so I shop for fragrance and I have so many that i do not need or wear but I keep on doing the same thing. I try to stop, but then keep watching fragrance videos and buy more that sound soooo good.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thanks for sharing!! Yes getting caught up in the shopping can take over actually enjoying perfume!

[@naio2003]

One thing I can say is that it's helped me with my vaping addiction. I know it sounds strange. The serotonin plus the dopamine boost is way better than getting a head buzz. They're also very pretty.

[@harredondo1]

This really spoke to me. Thanks!

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thank you for watching!

[@susieq7178]

Girl i feel attacked 😂😂😂 You know me and yet never met me. I needed this talking to today. I've been on a buying spell this past 2 weeks. I need to chill out. This video was a must. You did great

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thank you!! 😊 I'm glad you found it helpful. I have more coming because it goes deeper than this.

[@susieq7178]

@@CarmenScentrix I'll be watching

[@joannathesinger770]

I've been wearing the same scent since it was released in 1981. I have a little stash, but it's also discontinued, so my daughter encouraged me to expand a little. I went down the rabbithole in late October, learning everything I could about the notes in my signature scent and why I was attracted to them. Then, I started ordering samples that I thought I might like based on their notes. That went so well, I started blind-buying a few...and then we decided to have a "fragrance Christmas", so I was buying for myself, my daughter, and my granddaughter who is 11. She asked for fragrances for Christmas I'm now closing in on 50 fragrances. I have yet more samples and discovery sets. I also keep a fragrance "wish list"...but I am limiting myself on buying more until what I've bought is paid off. My goal is by June. I will set up a budget and buying strategy by then, and add into my collection a little at a time...but yes, it can get dangerous!!!

[@CarmenScentrix]

That's a little similar how went down that rabbit hole. I was looking for my next scent because mine was getting low. Next thing you know I had 200😱 I found like 50 new signature scents! Lol. Thats so sweet that you share that with your family. You're creating such beautiful memories for your granddaughters childhood! Best of luck with your perfumes goals for this year!

[@CarmenScentrix]

If you don't mind sharing, I would LOVE to know what that signature scent was you had for so long and what's the next best thing you found?

[@joannathesinger770]

@@CarmenScentrix I don't mind. It was the original Gianni Versace for Women which came out in 1981. It was discontinued after he was killed...and may have had something to do with the oakmoss as a base note. That was about the same time as oakmoss was frowned upon as a perfume ingredient. Oakmoss is definitely a finishing ingredient and so many fragrances nowadays just don't have that same finishing note. I think that spoiled me, because NOTHING Donatella released after had the same nose appeal. It's all too "bright", screechy, and doesn't have the "class" that the OG had. I'm divided between gourmand, florals, and citruses...and if the floral and citrus is combined...I like it so much more! For fall/winter, I really like Xerjoff's Golden Dallah. I also like Al Harrimain's Amber Oud Tobacco Edition, Lataffa's Nebras, Khamrah, and Khamrah Quhwa. I also have some BDK fragrances I enjoy...Pas Ce Soir, Creme de Cuir, Velvet Tonka, and Nuit de Sable. I just got travel-sized Rouge Smoking and Gris Charnel and am trying them out. For spring/summer, I got Fakhar, Haya (which I LOVE), Aqua Allegoria Mandarine Basilic, and Chloé Rose Tangerine. I imagine I have a few more but not recalling them right now. I went "old school" and ordered Ungaro's Diva. I'm still waiting for my Shaghaf Oud Tonka to get here. I enjoy quite a few Kayali fragrances, but I layer Vanilla 28 and Choco Musk whenever I can. I also got a bunch of BBW to layer with my fragrances, and I got 3 different scents from Victoria's Secret...Wild Fig and Manuka Honey, Frostmelt (mint and chocolate), and Autumn Mist (coffee, vanilla, sandalwood) to kind of round out my fragrance collection. I taught World History for years, and I'm considering setting up a small historical parfum section...just as a geeky little nod to two things I love.

[@CarmenScentrix]

@@joannathesinger770 I love the idea! People are really starting to appreciate vintage perfumes more now because the new designer stuff just never feels the same. Oakmoss is one of the ones they got rid of because of it being and allergen right? Everything is so artificial now 😒 I wish we could just have the choice. Some people are allergic to peanuts but that doesn't mean the rest of us can't buy them. I wish perfumes could've just put a warning and kept the real oils. Thank you so much for sharing that great roundup of perfumes! I'm very curious about some of them!

[@joannathesinger770]

@@CarmenScentrix Exactly on the oakmoss...and the peanuts! I think they HAVE lightened up on the oakmoss a bit. I've seen some new fragrances that do have it.

[@MisterMusic93]

Nice video, i guess you are right. Buying shit is for filling your happiness. In the end if you dont get in problems its alright since imo most things in life is a moneysink. But if you get in debt or cant pay shit that is more important you need to change it. Im on 39 bottles now but i will never get in financial problems, but im still jealous when i see people with mad collections haha. Have a nice weekend and dont buy too much.😂

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thank you ❤ 39 is a great number 👌 stop while you can, save yourself 😂

[@ScentSiblingsDotCA]

Oh MAN, the truth is harsh, eh? It's just never enough. And the whole sharing thing (you're so DEEP!) is why I love you so much. (And I would LOVE to go for lunch!) You're so intelligent and sensitive and have such a great way of articulating your thoughts. It's why we come here! I conquer 100% It's not about the fragrances (for the most part). It's about having something coming in the mail, or the joy of shopping. It's about GETTING the fragrances. And then getting MORE.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes! It's more than perfume! Yes let's go have lunch! So interesting you think I can articulate myself! I genuinely really struggle with that. I combine words, forget words and just generally stumble on voicing my thoughts. Lol. I just edit it out as much as I can 😂

[@itsyourgirlac346]

Wow you gained a subscriber. I can relate soo much. It is never enough😭

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thanks for subbing! I appreciate you! Yes it's been that way for me because the shopping is the problem not the stuff I'm buying.

[@slayyy_by_yella9191]

Hey new subbie from denise adore…. It’s hard to cut back especially after watching some of the KZbin girlies and also these companies are always pushing out new fragrances you see It and think you need it. I love perfume it makes me happy. What drives me crazy if I don’t get it, it’s going to be sold out.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thanks for subbing! Fomo is so real and limited edition stuff always gets me too! I've stayed away from anyone who influences me too much because the temptation is real!

[@AdaywithDestiny]

I am glad you posted this, this is a real video. New here loved this share.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@mayat354]

N to know that we have the most carcogenic toxic poisonous chemicals sitting up there,...that we use sometimes but keep buying more ....😢..causing a hole in our wallet

[@CarmenScentrix]

I'm definitely struggling with that aspect of things to be honest! I have purposely not looked into it too much because I know the truth will be scary. I normally care about my overall health when it comes to food and my surroundings. So I have some reflecting to do when it comes to perfume.

[@grazynacohen9067]

Research endocrine disrupters in fragrances and use caution if you care about your physical and financial health. Excellent video. 💯 on point. Thank you.

[@christie847]

You made some really good points, Carmen. 😊

[@CarmenScentrix]

Glad you think so! 💕

[@sandramiller6789]

i want to enjoy the perfumes i have in my collection and rediscover the love i have for them and why i purchased them in the first place. I have over 100 bottles, and there is no reason why I need to add anything else to my collection. Im going to focus on my older perfumes and show them some love. Tfs

[@CarmenScentrix]

Yes to enjoying what we have! That's a great way to put it! I also want to rediscover what I love about my perfumes and Declutter what's in the way. Thank you for sharing 💕

[@lovethineownself7994]

Please make a video about your whole collection!

[@vikm1341]

Its ok, you can’t please everyone🙏 But thats fine even if its offensive its your channel.

[@Lulu-kt6gr]

Very insightful.

[@tetyanamedvid9115]

Thank you for this video! Everything said is so true to me!

[@victoria.galvin]

Related to sooo much of this!

[@lightwithloveyourlife]

You are so right 👍💖

[@kara8911]

I’m not mad at you! Haha! I think everyone is always mad at me too.

[@CarmenScentrix]

I constantly have to remind myself people are not mad at me. Even if they are, if they don't tell me, then it's not my job to speak for them!

[@yahainHotPink]

😂😂😂 the first 2 minutes Carmen ❤

[@almatoledo1608]

Beauty of bottles? There are so many it is a giant mélange (grrrr).

[@kristinmary4025]

It’s me hi I’m the problem it’s me 💛✨

[@CarmenScentrix]

👌😬😂

[@bettyboop78411]

On point!!

[@HappinessSparkles]

Hi Carmen ❤

[@CarmenScentrix]

Hi there Franis 😊 So glad to see you! 💕

[@almatoledo1608]

Buenos dias, Carmen.

[@CarmenScentrix]

Buenos Dias, as always thank you for being here on this journey with me! 💕

[@Lulu-kt6gr]

Don’t second-guess yourself

[@FragranceEuphoria]

Love this video 💖

[@CarmenScentrix]

Thank you!!

[@iStorm-my5fp]

Facts