In a nutshell
A room fragrance is immediately noticeable on entering and often seems weaker later even though it remains present. This decrease in perceived intensity is influenced by adaptation and habituation in the olfactory system.
Why does it happen?
Repeated or sustained odor stimuli alter processing in the olfactory system. Both processes in olfactory sensory cells and central processing may be involved. The perceived weakening does not reliably indicate that a substance has disappeared from the air.
Frequency
Olfactory adaptation is a normal function of the smell system. How quickly an odor becomes less noticeable depends on the odor and how it is presented.
Frequency is a qualitative description, not your individual probability.
Is it normal?
After a stimulus-free pause, a familiar scent may become more noticeable again.
When to seek advice
Have new or persistent loss of smell assessed. Never judge dangerous gases by your own sense of smell.
Does this happen to you?
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Sources (1)
- Geruchsadaptation: Ableitungen vom menschlichen Riechepithel (opens a new tab)
The human study investigates peripheral and perceptual adaptation to repeated odor stimulation.
Editorial update: . AI-assisted research and editing; not individually reviewed by a physician. How we research
