Im just so fed up with influencers posting "perfumes im obsessed with right now" only to find out all their recommendations are gifted perfumes...🤦🏻♀️
⬆️ this! Absolutely 💯 the disappointment of finding out they were all free and they might not have bought or known about a single one of them if they had not been sent them...🤦♀️ Thanks for watching 🥰
I have a lot of gifted fragrances that I got in PR. The only pr I accept are from fragrances I’ve been wanting anyways, and I know that’s the same situation for alot of creators. I don’t accept or ask for pr if I don’t think I’ll like the fragrance.
Just last week, one influencer got a promo code. Suddenly, all her "most complimented" fragrances were only the ones sold on the site that had given her the code.
Overconsumption is something I’m facing now. I want to minimize blind buying in the future. Thanks for this video, Claire. Balance is important in this space 💛😊
Yes, I agree with you, I've slipped up a few times already this year thinking that I'd love something that it turned out that I didn't. It's still a thing for me too so I understand that it's a hard cycle to break. Thanks for watching 🥰
Same, I never blind buy full bottles I’m too picky, but I do go nuts with over-buying sample vials/small decants…always driven by so many influencer reviews!
As someone who has been doing the YT fragrance bit for 10 years, I agree with the majority of your points. I've seen a massive change in this community and the influencer culture has made me remove myself from most of this community. I was very good friends with a number of these big name influencers but I just got tired of the business side and lack of genuine friendships which turned out to be more about the business in the end.
Yes that's sad, I think of the people I started with and made connections with, most have stopped making videos. A few are much more successful than me and have many more subs with affiliate links and brand deals, but I really quite like being part of a small community and having a chat with people, that's all.... The response to this video feels like a lot for me. I am not sure I understand it really. 🙃 Thanks for watching 🥰
These days most of the bigger perfume channels (over 20k subs) are salespeople pretending to be reviewers. You can usually spot them because whenever a "niche" brand puts out a new fragrance, they all suddenly get a full bottle and post an overwhelmingly positive review, and never mention that fragrance again... and of course, they never discuss price (they got sent it for free) or value for money (because it isn't).
@@shave-a-thon3415 I'm laughing out loud at this, it made me immediately think of the Instagram influencers in their 20s with a wall of $600 perfumes behind them. For all the issues of You tube Perfume land, I do love the community of true perfume nerds we have.
You hit the nail on the head. I go to UA-camrs to learn about new releases or popular fragrances, but I always go to Fragrantica to see what real people are actually saying about the fragrance and it is often completely different.
Your charity idea was such a good one. I wish they had taken you up on the offer. Also on that note, heart surgery is lot for anyone to go through but especially a child. I’m really glad you’re on this earth ❤️
I thought it was! They didn't even reply though 🤷♀️ I found that extremely rude. Yes! I can vividly remember suddenly being able to lay on my stomach, walk for more than 3 mins, ride my cycle after the operation, it was like a rebirth. ☺️ I think it must be harder to deal with when you're older. You would be more scared I think.
Thank you! I am officially normal now, the only niggle is my left shoulder isn't in the correct place as the surgeon accessed my heart from the left side of my body. It looks odd and spasms sometimes but I'm happy that's my only side effect 😊
Social Media is a marketers dream. Ads are cheap and you have a captive pre-selected audience of subscribers. 🤩 Greed can be a good thing if it motivates you to develop something useful. But when it motivates you to give up your integrity or purpose, it will crush your soul.
Thank for this! I used to make perfume. My brand was Sebastiane. I had a really popular gourmand perfume called Espresso Royale. I have since stopped making perfume for the reasons you mention. I was shocked at how cut throat the perfume community is. Those FB perfume groups where a nightmare for me.
That's really sad isn't it, this is the problem, smaller brands just get pushed out. Social media and its creators should be supporting and featuring smaller brands much more. It's where all the creativity is. Thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you 🥰 I'm never going to be an influencer so I'm ok with saying this but I get that many others want the extra income and PR so this kind of video would be a complete no for them!
What a great video again, Claire! Thank you! I was thinking about the point you 've made about Navitus for a long time now! I was watching an influencer promoting another influencer's new fragrance, thinking: ...how could I believe anything that she's saying? Clearly, they are promoting each other alternatingly, regardless of what the perfume smells like.
It's weird isn't it? I've never seen anyone say anything about it either... But then I don't watch many influencer videos so I might have missed it. Thanks for watching 🥰
Honestly, as a viewer I am fully aware about PR and affiliate links and such. Whenever I listen to recommendations I take these things in mind and make sure I investigate further through other sources before I decide to buy something. And if I decide to buy after this, and it was because of someone's UA-cam video, why shouldn't I click on the affiliate link and help them out in turn, just as they did? People spend hours filming, editing and planning videos that they should be compensated for. I understand if for some doing this is just a hobby, but it doesn't take away from the fact that it takes a lot of effort to produce anyway. I think people are intelligent enough to not take word for word everything said by influencers and do your own research, but that's just my opinion
I think the problem with using links is that that cost is built into fragrance pricing, so overall we are all paying more because of those links. I'm not going to change this but I think it's important for people to see this and also to recognise the huge amounts of money involved which inevitably will colour how people present their views on fragrances. Many people don't realise that it's not pennies here, it's several £££. I do this as a hobby but I do spend hours making videos but I don't expect to earn anything more than ad revenue from it. It's fun and I don't want to sell things to people I am part of a community with. Friends would always want someone to get the best deal for something and these links are often not the best deal, except for the influencer that is. Thanks for watching 🥰
I don't know a single YT community based off consumer goods that isn't clearly full of people who actually do regularly fall for influencer marketing. It's not about intelligence but experience and learning to recognise when someone sells or is genuine, to recognise the issues w consumerism to start with etc it's a learning process for people and it can take a while. Last time I checked kids in school don't take courses on how not to get manipulated by consumerism
@@dr.claire.perfumeSocial media has not invented the wheel of consumerism or advertising. They have always used people who have bases, followings, or were popular. And yes the cost of advertising is built into the cost. However I wouldn't penalize a person who grew their base and suspect them of lying because they have a large channel. I've always bought and loved perfumes the old school way through magazine samples, and trips to the mall. Then it was samples from my makeup purchases at Ulta and Sephora. Things change. But the consumer can change what's going on even now. As I add to my collection I can tell who knows what they are talking about versus the trend pusher. I do my own research, it's just what I do with all things. But I'm older and a UA-camr since 2006 so my perspective may be different.😂
Watching this video made me feel as if I was reading an academic paper in which perfume influencing on UA-cam was critically reviewed. Thank you, Claire, for this highly educative piece. I learnt a lot.
I used to follow a content creator, who makes at least 3 videos per week. Last year, she made a video about fragrances she wears the most. I was stunned by two things: 1) none of those mentioned were ones about which she had waxed poetically and had promoted in her numerous videos; 2) the ones she actually wears are ones on which she had spent her own money. That was an eyeopening moment for me, and quickly unfollowed.
Yes, I can imagine she was actually being true to what she enjoys for that one video... I think it's probably hard for influencers, because their preferences are essentially available to purchase by brands and they have to aware their every opinion might have knock on effects in future. It must be really a minefield for them not to tie themselves in knots if they aren't always expressing their true feelings and it must take a lot of thinking about. Thanks for watching ❤️
There can be non-malignant reasons for this. An expert in a subjective field such as perfumes or music can appreciate or rank highly things they wouldn't wear or listen to very often. Just as a random example, I think Sgt. Pepper is a better album than the White Album according to certain standards but I much prefer listening to the White Album and rarely listen to Sgt. Pepper. I can appreciate the quality of something while not preferring it to something else. Also if a person has dozens or even hundreds of perfumes that's way more than a human being needs and they are inevitably going to reach for only a small amount of them routinely.
@@smolderingtitan How interesting that every single one she claims she wears the most are the ones on which she had spent her money. How interesting that never once had she ever mentioned any of those fragrances in the hundreds of videos she has made. Also, she is not an "expert" in this field, so your analogy doesn't quite work.
@@sherwood9917 my analogy works. I don't know anything about the specific case you're mentioning and am, therefore, not defending them. I'm making a general statement about things to consider when judging someone on something like this and that would include what they paid for and what they didn't pay for or their incentives. You could be 100% right and what I am saying would remain valid. I don't take anyone's word for anything even if they have no overt incentive to lie unless I'm familiar with them as a reliable source. And they may be reliable on some things and not on others. In the specific case you're mentioning I would want to know if she gave glowing reviews of every fragrance (or the percentage) she received.
3:49 I like this point . I’ve found you cannot judge a persons knowledge on their appearance nor collection . I own about 25 fragrances, and am usually rocking pajamas because of my disability… however I know more about fashion history , designers and now through great research, more about perfume than one might guess . Sometimes for hobbyists and collectors, it’s the accumulation of knowledge that is just as satisfying and exciting as accumulating physical goods. It’s quite hilarious when sales associates make these judgements though , fun times.
Yes! Exactly! I don't want a huge collection of fragrances or to own full bottles of things that cost £350+, I may not own lots but I've tried lots and I know a lot of history, chemistry and social science around fragrance, to me that's the joy of this, not owning everything under the Sun and having £10000s sitting on my shelves unused. To me, that's pointless. Equally if I bought something 4 years ago and still use it, I'm not going to declutter it because it's no longer trending. My collection is for me! People do judge sadly and yes sales assistants are quite bad for that. I think science has taught me though that appearance is nothing and words are everything. Have a fab Sunday 🥰
Once a month I go through who I am subscribed too, to check in with myself on if they are adding to my life. Because in truth I’m giving my time and hours to watching and liking and commenting. So you’re hitting all the points I agree with and can appreciate. Thank you for being you ❤
Thank you ❤️ and yes, I think there's a degree of giving people a chance but if they are just salespeople and their content doesn't interest you then it's the thing to do. YT does take a crazy amount of time, both for the audience and creators. Thanks for watching 🥰
This video was pure gold. I appreciate your honesty and it’s something I’ve seen. It’s such a dilemma because if you’re only making content for the money, it can quickly become fake. There’s definitely a fine line between shelling out and making content you love for the community you love while making a little bit of money to support it. Cheers to your channel growth! ❤
Thank you ❤️ I think that is really what monetisation is for. It's not a lot but really it adds up... I completely agree, content shouldn't constantly chase views or affiliate income, both lead to very samey videos from everyone. Thanks for watching 🥰
Thanks Claire. That was very educational to me. With only a year of fragrance obsession under my belt, it didn't take long to narrow down who is trustworthy on UA-cam. And I honestly never thought about their income & I rarely use affiliate links. I'm just interested in a honest review. And I love declutters explaining why you're not in love anymore. The system does promote excess consumption. But I feel it's our own personal responsibility to not go there. Really enjoyed your video.
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy that you enjoyed it. I think the more you watch, the more you figure that out. The amount of affiliate income people earn must be astounding. And yes, I love seeing people explain why they didn't love something, I find it fascinating and I do try to be a considerate consumer, but I know my collection is still too big for me. I am trying to reduce it. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab weekend! ☺️
What a wonderful video. You have verbalized so many of my own thoughts. I would like to say these Middle Eastern Fragrances come before they have matured. I have received perfumes that have absolutely no smell. After two or three months, the perfume blossomed and I could realize the true fragrance. Some were wonderful, some went in the garbage, unwearable for anyone. Many reviewers open the packages of these perfumes in front of you and review these perfumes. It is obvious to me they are reading ingredients and carrying on about the layers and reading promos. I wonder how they can review these scents. I receive some of those bottles and they have not at all developed. They are really faking the whole video on these new releases. I have bought into some of the hype and some of these perfumes are really bad after they mature; just a jumble of combined scents with this new Middle Eastern rave to sell product. Yes, you never hear about these bottles again because it was all fake and they had no reality about the true scent.
Yes I agree, I don't review fragrances for several months after buying them. When I sample, I do so multiple times. It's usually 3 or more unless it's absolute instant hatred. I think with Middle Eastern fragrances, especially the cheaper end of the market, those videos get so many views, that people who aren't even interested in those fragrances review them. I agree, you need to let them sit for a good while before you can judge. I left mine for two months before initial review and they changed a bit even after that!
I did not fall for any of these ME fragrances- I haven’t even bother to test them yet. I’m just waiting to see the ones that real people mention on Reddit groups or see if these influencers that made a video saying awesome things about that particular fragrance will end up put it for sale on Mercari a month later.
I’m shocked at how much influencers can make per bottle sale. I never thought about that. But given the absolutely ridiculous rise in perfume costs (especially regular designer fragrances) it makes sense. I’m grateful for your video for drawing attention to how influencers operate.
It's loads isn't it? It's not just a few pennies... Social media works though doesn't it? So I'm sure brands will just carry on 🤦♀️ thanks for watching 🥰
Yes to everything you said today, Claire! I did not know the percentages of money influencers were making on each affiliate link purchase that followers make. On another topic: I had my first experience of getting tricked into buying a fake fragrance on an online second-hand store. After buying a travel size spray of Diptyque Fleur de Peau, I bought what appeared to be a slightly used bottle at a nice price. When I received the item, to my surprise it was still in the original plastic wrapping. The packaging and the bottle looked very convincing, but the juice smelled nothing like the real thing. I went to a local department store to get a genuine spray, and it smelled like my original travel spray, but not the fake bottle. My partner surprised me by buying a real new bottle from NOSE. So now I can see all the minor ways the two versions of packaging and bottle differ. These fake perfume distributors clearly have companies, factories, and smart designers. Ugh. Thank you, as always, for your thoughtful and ethical content. Have a lovely day. 🦋🧡🦋
Thank you ❤️ Oh gosh, I'm so sorry, that's so awful! I love Fleur de Peau, I can see why you were buying a bottle after a travel spray. The fakes are pretty spot on sometimes, it's hard to tell until you spray them. I hope you can get the money back 🤞 it was so lovely of your husband to buy you a bottle. I have had it happen to me twice now and I felt really silly but it's almost impossible to tell until you actually have it in your hands... Thank you for always watching and supporting me, I really appreciate it 🥰
I guess it was more complicated than just paying someone. 🤷♀️ I don't feel comfortable taking money for this though and I felt that was the best solution. 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume They have a very specific marketing strategy that's been likely confirmed through market research to be maximally effective at convincing potential customers to buy. They don't want an independent review--they want an *advertisement*, but done in that friendly, organic, down to earth way. These companies realize now that traditional advertising makes people do the squinty face the fish guy did in that episode of Spongebob where the latter faked dying at the beach. They're trying to fake authenticity to bypass people's obvious fatigue with constant advertising. You offered actual, genuine authenticity and a goal to make the world a bit of a better place. For the snakes in marketing that's like garlic for vampires, sadly.
Last year I was interested in Althaïr by PDM. Everyone and their grandmother was talking about it. Not just fragrance reviewers, but in a fragrance group I used to be in on FB. I was watching Demi Rawling unbox the fragrance on Instagram and UA-cam, and was blown away by the gorgeous presentation. I had never ordered from PDM, and couldn’t wait to have the same experience. It’s a $365 fragrance, currently, and it seemed more than worth it. The package came. And guess what was inside? The fragrance in a small box. And some crinkle paper. That was it. Yes, I ordered directly through PDM. I reached out to PDM, as I assumed there was some mistake. I thought they would be mortified. I asked where the gorgeous packaging with the bow was. I asked where the collector’s booklet on the fragrance was, as shown in the video. And I couldn’t believe it, when they told me that the reason Demi had received that presentation was because they have “a professional relationship” with her. “So wait. She got all of that for free…and when I pay $365, I get less??? You’re a luxury brand-how does that make sense??? And if all of that isn’t available to everyone, why was she showing it on camera???” After pushing like a Karen, they asked for my address. And sent me a discovery set in the nice packaging. It was nice of them. But the experience really changed my perception of both their brand, and fragrance influencers. I also sell jewelry. And over a year ago, I put a ton of effort into making a jewelry collection inspired by iconic fragrance bottles. I reached out to soooo many of these reviewers who I watch, hoping to collaborate. And not *one* would give me the time of day. I couldn’t believe it. I was like, “jeez…how many hours of watch time have I given your channel over the last few years???” It makes me sort of think that many of them are getting paid a LOT of money, to the point where they can turn their noses up at small/indy collabs. I dunno. I can’t really tell who to trust. Maybe the only UA-cam fragrance reviewer I realllllly trust is Sebastian. I used to watch Monika all the time. But I get beyond irritated on her men’s channel that she refers to everything as “cologne”, when she’s talking about an EDP or EDT or Parfum, probably because that’s what dudes who are uneducated about fragrances call them (how about educating them, instead…they aren’t “colognes”). And on both of her channels, she always talks about smelling good for the opposite sex. I’ve left so many comments saying that not everyone dates the opposite sex…and the comments are completely ignored. To me, that means that she is targeting one audience and one audience only, and will do whatever she has to do to sell on behalf of the brands, rather than caring about the emotions of her audience. Anyway. Rant over. Thanks for the very honest and helpful video.
Your point about colognes is something I have also thought about. I assume because that is the general word used for male marketed fragrance in the US, but yes, it's factually inaccurate, and I believe she is living in the UK, so that again makes zero sense. And yes, I know, I made a video about the fragrance notes scientifically studied and said (cos those studies are middling at best in their proof levels 😂) to be attractive to men on women and vice versa. I said in those videos, either in the video or the description box that I am sorry to exclude people but the science really isn't there for studies for other preferences. I felt awful. When I made a video about floral meanings, I specifically talked about the importance of carnations to the gay community as that was so interesting! I want to be inclusive but often I see people making tags that specifically focus on hetero relationship constructs. It's hard to try to turn the tide, but I'm trying, trust me. I never gender fragrance now, and I haven't done for at least two years, I think people need to make their own minds up based on their personal taste. Not be dictated to. And yes, Demi will have got the media kit, which basically tells them the messages that the brand wants to convey. The customer won't get that unfortunately. I am sorry that people weren't interested in showing your jewellery. For me, it's when I'm offered a product that is nothing to do with what I talk about that I refuse, but that does seem to be to do with fragrance, so I don't understand why one person didn't say yes. Thanks for watching and for your interesting comment. Have a fab week 🥰
Demi Rawling’s boyfriend Pierre-Louis Berrier. “Demi Rawling is dating a typical "fils a papa" french kid from Dubai who she met on a yacht in Cannes, France. The kid is the son of one of the two managers of Sprecher Berrier Group of Companies (Dubai). One of the two managers is Jean-Francois Sprecher (not the kid's father). Some of the brands owned or/and distributed by SBGC: Initio, PDM, BDK Parfums, etc...”
So many scented mercenaries out there, I rather stay small but honest ! I'm happy you are healthy now ! That company was not interested in charity, big shame on them 😡🤮😡 The Extragentsscents is a genuine one like you💖😍
Yes absolutely! ☺️ I did feel really sad about that. I don't really want to take money though, however temporarily... I'd rather not handle it, so I don't feel bad for asking that they pay them directly. I guess it wasn't to be! Thanks for watching, have a lovely weekend 🥰
Hello Dr. Claire, another interesting video! It's so odd that company wouldn't agree to the donation, I think it's a great idea and would even save them money 🤷♀️ I am all for women making money and using affiliate links for things they already love. I can see how it can become a problem when they are pushing products just to make money. I guess it's our job as a consumer to do our due diligence and to follow genuine people. I try to be genuine and I try to be careful with the content I consume.
Hi Carmen! I think it's understandable from a business point of view, I was complicated and they couldn't just pay me to say something positive. They didn't even bother to reply... I'm sure they are paying someone who just said yes and took the money. 🤷♀️ It's personal choice with links isn't it? I do think they need better regulation though as to how they are presented on social media. This is just a hobby for me, so I just don't want to have to think about money at all, this is just an escape... Thanks for watching 🥰
People who know nothing about fragrances are reviewing fragrances for thousands of people and all they're doing is replaying the same thing as the last UA-camr. It's beyond frustrating. I can't stand it.
Thank you ! I have taken people off of my subscribe list because I feel their promotions made their reviews not real!!! I followed this woman from beginning and she was down to earth and I love that she brought up perfumes that were NOT hyped but then she collaborated with a niche perfume store and all she mentioned was those perfume!!! I decided not to watch those because I feel it’s fake! Believe me I get the collaborations but add some others fragrances!!!! Thank you again and thanks for letting me vent 😂
Yeah it's a real shame isn't it? I've seen it a few times with people I've followed when they've got bigger. I get it because people want money and want to grow and getting a tonne of free stuff or income helps you to achieve that but I think sometimes being true to where you started is also important. I do think collaborations can mean stuff is perhaps not exactly your own unfiltered opinion. Thanks for watching 🥰
You are a breath of fresh air Claire and I think you're going to ruffle a few feathers 😂 I was nodding along with everything you said. I didn't realise how much is earned through affiliate links. I've never used them. I totally understand everyone has to make a living but I always wonder if someone is really being honest when they have affiliate links. I take some reviewers with not so much a pinch of salt, more a heaped tablespoon 😂
Heaped teaspoon 🤣 thanks Fiona! Yes, I was a little worried about posting this. People can of course do what they want and some people want to support channels by purchasing through links, I get that too, but I would like people to be transparent that it isn't pence, it's many, many pounds that they get from each purchase. And I think that amount of money really can change what people say. Thanks for watching and supporting me! I really appreciate it and look forward to hearing from you! 🥰
I mostly just enjoy listening to people talk about perfume. I do appreciate the folks that disclose PR gifts, feature bottles of well loved (large dents) fragrances, describe fragrances according to their noses instead of regurgitating notes from Fragrantica, and just genuinely seem to LOVE fragrance in general. Social media is so weird, and I could never make content a full time job. I couldn’t handle the constant negativity from strangers. What is it with humanity and the urge to be so negative, mean, & hateful ALL THE TIME anyway? High five to everyone committed to doing what they truly enjoy and being able to slug through the ugly side of that stuff. Influencers definitely play a role in mass consumerism, but it’s ultimately on the consumer to be responsible with their money and not blame influencers for impulse buying. I appreciate your content because it’s different, fun, well thought out, and I can tell you enjoy discussing the content you put out every week. The science content is my favorite. 😊 I also appreciate the transparency. Hope you are having a good weekend.
Thank you! Yes I agree with all of that! I think big influencers do get a lot of people who think they are funny or are just downright mean... On the whole I've not had to deal with that thankfully. I do love talking about my content and the issues around every aspect of fragrance. I think there's much more to perfumery and to discuss than simply recommendations. 😊 I've had a tricky weekend, so Friday, I was uploading this video and it just finished and my hard drive on my laptop just stopped working... So today I chose and bought a new laptop, but that was s £1150 🤯 and also all my current video plans were lost, along with my editing software... So next week who knows, but probably no video whilst I sort everything out 🤦♀️ Thanks for watching and for your support! I appreciate it 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume oh no, that sucks about your laptop. That’s another driver for UA-camrs I guess. The bigger they get, the more reliable in posting they need to be, their production quality has to get better and all that costs money. I’ve seen people comment and complain when they think the quality isn’t good enough 😮. A bit of a vicious circle.
@@nellukeyes! I get these comments... I make videos in my living room and don't have a budget for equipment, especially with my new laptop now 🤣 so I'm afraid there does need to be a little bit of tolerance with video and audio quality. Hopefully content is enough to carry this through 🙈
I agree with you on everything! But you see those DENTS you talked about? Even you could walk around your house/apartment intentionally spraying out a good amount so that it looks like you actually like it so much that you're putting that much dent in it. So even the dents are questionable to me.
Disheartening, but also not surprising that the subscription co. wasn’t moved by your charity idea. Even when UA-camrs disclose things like affiliate links, PR, etc., I follow some on selling platforms like Mercari and have seen them sell off fragrances that were raved about in Mother’s Day videos, top 10 spring videos or something of the like. So it does come off as disingenuous to me no matter what.
I felt really sad about it. My only hope is that the person who failed to reply was with a PR agency and not with the brand itself perhaps? Either way, I think someone talking about such a service who isn't being paid is probably a better "advert" for it. Absolutely, you can see it here on eBay too. I have found lots of people's accounts. I have seen people quietly off loading PR, I guess that's tempting as it's pure profit. Thanks for watching 🥰
Voicing their own opinion on fragrances has nothing to do with you. If you don’t like what they say then don’t watch them. So what if they have sponsorships. In the end the UA-camrs are entertainment. The opinion doesn’t really matter but are they entertaining.
I think I watch UA-cam for recommendations, so these kinds of affiliate link-biased opinions are really not helpful for me. I mainly watch small channels who I have a more personal relationship with as a result. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume I understand but in the end it’s just entertainment. Just like people who do financial videos. They say a disclaimer that what they say is entertainment purposes not financial advice.
@@benedicttorre3401 that's because they don't want to be sued 🤣 no one in their right mind takes financial advice from a YTber. You need someone who knows your particular situation.
@@dr.claire.perfume exactly! That’s why it doesn’t matter what other fragrances reviewers say. It’s about the person who buys it. Believe me I have bought tons of fragrances that I ended up not using at all. I bought them. It’s not about what other reviewers say.
If people are genuine I have no problem with affiliate links etc. Let them eat while others save its mutually beneficial. Even if they aren't being genuine and don't like a fragrance they're promoting its up to the customer to sample before buying
I am an old frag lady and just began my YT fragrance journey January 1, 2024. Making YT frag videos is fun and I do it for fun. I currently have 3 affiliate links that I post in my description. But, I always emphasize that the fragrance prices fluctuate like the stock market. I encourage my viewers to check multiple online sites (that are not affiliates that I also include) to be sure they are not overpaying. I tell them that when they save more, they can buy more. My goal on my YT channel is to bring viewers along on my fragrance journey and learn to appreciate fragrances and hopefully identify with me and my untrained nose as we rediscover our gift of scent. I watched your entire video and agree with most of what you presented. I took notes and want to be sure that I do not fall into any of the 13 categories of YT frag influencers you highlighted. I am a caregiver spouse for my chronically ill and disabled Sweetheart. My fragrance obsession is an outlet for the stress of being a caregiver over the last 20 years. I am 77 years old and have no idea how to be less than honest about any fragrance I review. Thank you for pulling back the curtain surrounding some perfume influencers and others with affiliate links. I have found several really genuine fragrance influencers and truly enjoy their candid reviews and their revelations about their paid or gifted endorsements and honest reviews. I want to grow my channel to be like them and your.❤❤
Oh good luck, yes I agree, fragrance is fun and for me that's all I want... I think there are many genuine people out there for sure. And I think links are personal choice, but I do think that social media in general needs to make rules very much clearer and actually enforce them... That would help create a level playing field for everyone. For me, I just see this as an outlet and relaxation. Earning money from making particular videos for brands or retailers with sales would take all of that fun away. Thanks for watching and I will check out what you have to say, I love finding new people! 🥰
About Navitus: I'm not interested in this brand at all, I don't follow the influencers who "created" (lol) perfumes with them and I don't watch videos of other people reviewing their fragrances... It's not a brand I respect, because it's not about perfume at all, it's all about business and making easy money. Everyone's raving about Navitus because they don't want to be cancelled in the perfume community. And one word about PR - I also don't like when youtubers (and people on insta) don't mention that a perfume was gifted to them... There is an "influencer" in here who puts a disclaimer under her every video: "Any items marked with a (*) were received in PR but with no obligation to post" and there are no * at all when most of the stuff was sent to her for free! 🤣 sometimes she will mention in a video that she received something in PR but why does she forget to declare it in the description...? 🤔
Yes I can't comment on Navitus, I've not tried any of their fragrances, but I've been reliably informed by a trusted friend who I share some overlapping taste with that they aren't the greatest from what they have tried. I will try some though before making my own mind up. 😊 And yes 🤣 people seem to just forget PR don't they? 🤣 The rules are clear, they actually even say you should mention it throughout the video in case people don't watch all of it. And you should put it in the description box in a way so people don't have to hunt for the information. Disclosure is key! 🥰
I tried and own some of them and I enjoyed most of what I tried. And that’s without even being a fan of that particular influencer. I think people are just as quick to hate as they are to love.
I am also not interested in NAVITUS or PARFUMS DE MARLY, because the whole concept is not cool or even sympathic. I call this Instagram brands and detest such things! I like classic houses or REAL niche like Etat Libre d'Orange, Rogue Perfumery, Olympic Orchid or Histoires de Parfums 😉
Claire, one of the many things I appreciate about you is that you reply to every single comment on your channel.When I first watched the video on saturday, I was like oh, this will go viral! And then I thought to myself well, this time she won't be able to reply to them all! Well, it did go viral but yes, she is!😃 Love to see your channel growing. That's what I call organic growth! Greetings from Romania!❤
I actually don’t watch many big YTuber s , if I want to hear a true review on something I will go to a smaller channel that I know and respect Wow 😮 it blows me away they wanted you to recommend a website you can’t even review from Paid promotion is way to compromising for me I’m so SO happy you did this video ,I can always rely on you Claire to bring us amazing content
Yes smaller channels are gold, I love seeing someone's channel succeed and grow, it's fab to support people. It's weird isn't it?! I really thought they'd want someone actually in the US or the other place(s) they sell to, but seemingly they don't care 🤣 I was a bit scared about posting this actually but I am happy that I did ☺️ thank you for always supporting me from the beginning Frances! It means so much, you are so so kind. 🥰
I love the ones who give a first sniff off a sample like the rest of us and IF they light it they buy it. Many times they might not like a single review of a sample. It does tickle me when they don’t like something I love but the hate comments when they do is sad.
I don’t normally comment on videos like these, because I usually find them to be very negative. Although I don’t agree with every single thing, you said, I do agree with a lot of it and I appreciate you sharing your opinions in a balanced manner! It was quite interesting to listen to, thank you!
I didn't want to call anyone out but yeah after 4 years, I guess you see some things and have some experiences that aren't so cool. 🤣 I'm happy to have voiced these, but I was worried about posting this too! Thanks for watching 🥰
I can tell as a fact that if fragrantica didn’t exist 95%of perfume gurus here on UA-cam would not exist because what is mostly done is reading the reviews and use them as an script to record your own here in UA-cam
Yes I agree! To be honest, it's helpful in many ways and I do think it's helped me to learn what certain seemingly abstract things smell like, like vetiver, benzoin, frankincense, myrrh, also some of the exotic fruits. But yes, it's abused.
I think you have to very carefully consider how people review fragrances and think about the brands they are ever negative about... think... are those brands ever likely to engage in paid promotion? E.g. Dior, Chanel...then think about the brands they never say anything against and ask the same question... Also ask yourself, do they ever talk about any notes outside of Fragrantica listings and do they use affiliate links?
There is a fairly prominent frag UA-camr who did a video surveying his collection by saying a few things describing each one. He did not say one single bad thing about any. Then he bragged that he did not pay for a single one of them. They were all given to him free. Then.....he literally had the gall to say, in the video, "...if you are jealous, remember that you can do this too...". Brazen. Also Ash at Gent Scents did a review video of a Dua fragrance (a clone house). He did not mention that he received a free bottle, but a link to Dua with a discount was written in the video's notes. And Dua is known to be shady. Try to submit a negative review of one of their fragrances on their website. It will never see the light of day. No notice to you. That's blatant. And on another note, UA-camr Sebastian of The Perfume Guy, did a negative review on a Bond No. 9 fragrance years ago, and was given a cease and desist letter by the brand! How can that happen? He should be able to say what he wants. He has never done a Bond No. 9 review since.
Sheesh! That's pretty bad! I tried my first Bond No9 the other day in store (I'd never been anywhere here that carries them before...) it wasn't great 😬 I have heard similar things about Dua. And I think a lot of people on social media are completely unaware of how their entire collection being free makes them look completely passionless... But whatever 🤣 thanks for watching 🥰
Wow I didn't know that about Sebastian, I really like him, he knows his stuff and seems really genuine, the same thing happened to aaron terence hughes, he said that a brand didn't have real oud in it (which he was right) and they tried to sue him and he had to make an apology video, disgrace
@ncpmadhead Companies will disingenuously use the threat of a lawsuit to bully and dominate people they don't like or want to silence/cancel. It's corruption. They themselves should be punished for doing that but the victims usually don't have the resources to resist.
I’ve watched the video in its entirety and have a few thoughts. As someone who has been doing this for years, I don’t see the issue with having affiliate links especially with brands that one has always supported. This is a full time job for a lot of people and if they are doing the work, they should be compensated. That being said, I completely agree that people should disclose if their fragrances were gifted or if the video is sponsored (which are hard to come by these days). I receive PR and never feel I must be leave a positive review. I believe in highlighting strengths and weakness of any fragrance. I started off buying my own fragrance and have no problem doing so. Being an influencer is a choice and the people who follow choose to support their favorite content creator. You made some very valid points because sadly there are people who aren’t genuine with subscriber counts, likes and the lists goes on. I appreciate your transparency. Thanks for sharing.
Yes for sure it's an influencer's job if they don't have other employment and they do need an income, I see that, but I just think it feels like manipulation of the audience with some influencers as they conceal just where that income comes from to the general public. I've seen some influencers specifically ignore comments about fragrances that their affiliate store of choice doesn't stock... That's awful. And I'm yet to see anyone say how much money they get from each affiliate linked sale, that's information people need to frame any review being given. I only output one video a week, so not much, but I still spend hours making videos, coming up with ideas, filming, researching and editing each week, just like a professional influencer. I do not expect to be paid for that time or through affiliate links. I just do it because I want to talk about fragrance. I have a job and this is my hobby. The outlay is mine and I only buy fragrances that interest me, nothing else... But could I come up with more content that I do? No and I wouldn't want to. I have to say the fake sub counts and views etc with some people has really got to me in the past 😂 it's just so blatant sometimes, I'm sure you've seen it too! I try to let it wash over me now 😂 thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeHmmm honestly we both know if they start mentioning money that they are getting from these frags Affiliates people will feel as though they want to control that situation more and support less yes thats messed up but it's people.
Sadly I realise nothing will change from my tiny video 🤣 but I hope that at least this makes people see the choices they can make and provides them with information that they might not have had. 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeI do think your video will lead some people to be more discerning and I appreciate your take on the whole thing perfumes....you are a breath of fresh air in this congested and sometimes "stinky" world of scents...thank you 🙏
I like the way you're using the word taste. Lately I've found it so off-putting when hearing perfume snobs using it in the Hyacinth Bucket way as if someone else's opinion is lesser for liking something different. We all smell things differently as well as experience a scent in a multitude of ways on skin❤
Absolutely! One person may love something and another hate it, I have my own opinions and express them, but I hope not to offend anyone and if I think it's quirky but I hate it, I hope I do say that it's striking or different and that someone else may well love it, because it is only personal taste at the end of the day. 🥰
Black opium is lovely . The hair mist omg !! I miss that the most . I remember actually being very sad when it came out because my best friend at the time had really fallen in love with it, and I bought her the full line of products for her birthday, and I actually really quite liked it too, but I felt like it wasn’t my place now to wear ysl black opium after it became her thing (thanks to meee lol )😂 8 years later I may have found MY signature . Don’t let anyone tell you a fragrance you like is not the one … it’s like food , music , hair styles, anything else … we all have our own preferences. What an utterly boring world if we all wanted to smell the same
Yes ⬆️ exactly 💯 we are all different! That is the joy 😊 I did a similar thing actually, but with a different fragrance! Years later, I bought it for myself and didn't enjoy it any longer, it was a "blind buy" as I'd not smelt it for ~9 years. Tastes move on and I should have been more cautious I guess 🤷♀️
It's hard to really judge I think! Smaller channels often are better for more honest opinions, but yes, you also have to know about their tastes overall.
I think it's just a thing generally isn't it? I do declutter but twice a year and I don't advertise my declutters for sale here because I don't want people to know my address! 🤣 It sounds incredibly unsafe as an idea to me! Thanks for watching 🥰
Hmm. Well, I agree with most of what you said in this video I don’t believe any of this is different relative to how any business operates and shouldn’t be surprising and it really is up to the consumer to be discerning. I enjoy watching perfume videos as entertainment, but I do realize all the recommendations are based on different circumstances. I think people consuming this kind of content can find either a perfume UA-camr that’s entertaining and you just enjoy listening or watching, and or someone who shares your taste, and preferences and has proven to be good full recommendations for you and your preferences. This isn’t rocket scientist science it is business and consumer beware. I just don’t think it’s specific to this industry at all.
Probably not, but there should be more transparency I think. I think many people seem reviewers as independent and as sharing their genuine opinions... That's mostly not the case. I do think the regulations need to be updated to mark affiliate links as a type of paid promotion, that would make things clearer. Thanks for watching 🥰
I prefer to watch videos of you tubers who do it for the love of fragrance only. Smaller channels who do vintage, older fragrances with sizeable dents that prove they have used and loved that fragrance😊. I cant watch those influencers who have wall to wall fragrances, get gifted fragrances, review them and never wear them. They are just disingenuous sale people.
I absolutely agree! I get so much joy from seeing people talk about something they absolutely love, I don't care if it's 15 years old or unavailable. I just want to hear about it! 🥰
While I can appreciate what you are saying I think as adults we make our own choices to buy or pass. I think you have to be a smart consumer and do your research, test and grab samples if possible rather than going solely on what “the community” is saying. As we all know fragrance a SO SUBJECTIVE. I also thinks it’s wise as an “influencer” to be forthcoming about what they receive in PR. I don’t mind affiliate links at all. It saves me quite a bit of money “if” I decide to purchase. At the end of the day we luv what we luv and we hate what we hate as we are all individuals with different tastes. It’s easy to say “ oh she’s only saying good things about the brand or the fragrance because she’s making a commission or she is sent the fragrance for free”. Fragrance is for FUN and I for one am not here to make judgements about anyone I don’t know personally. Like I said take what you want from a review and move on.
Yes fragrance is subjective. For example a review using mass spec and AI to assess a fragrance would eliminate the feelings and imagery prompted by wearing fragrance and that really would show just how much fragrance reviewing is all about how it is perceived by the person wearing it. I think affiliate marketing for me can be ok, I'm not saying it should be banned, particular businesses only exist because of it e.g. Kayali, but I just can't understand why it's not marked as paid promotion on videos, as those videos show fragrances with positive opinions and the links mean that someone makes money when that advertising is successful. I agree that some links in general can save someone money, but the same deals are often but not always available to the consumer elsewhere. Also if those links hadn't ever existed, would fragrance be cheaper? Has use of affiliate links increased fragrancd pricing in the longer term? I have seen one creator promoting links to purchase from places that are far from the cheapest for particular fragrances (I have seen a fragrance 5x the price via a link, it was a discontinued celebrity perfume priced under £10 elsewhere at the time), again, caveat emptor I guess... Fragrance is for sure so much fun, I love it, which is why I don't really understand why people who say this is simply their fun hobby and who have jobs already, need to monetarily benefit through affiliate marketing from sharing their positive opinions with others. Thanks for watching 🥰
Relatively new subscriber here. I love your perfume science videos- I find them very interesting and educational. One thing that I've noticed about some fragrance reviewers is the fact that some of them straigth up repeat reviews from fragrantica from other people when describing a fragrance. At the very least - I would expect a fragrance reviewer to make the effort to give their OWN impression of a fragrance on their content- Usually people who consume this kind of content are also on fragrantica. Is absurd to think it will go unnoticed
Thank you ❤️ they are some of my favourite videos! Yes! I write reviews on Fragrantica so I'm for sure there 🤣 it's just something a lot of people use and love isn't it? Thanks for watching 🥰
When I'm buying a perfume if I can't find the perfume cheaper I'll find one of my favorite UA-camrs affiliate link so they can make some money. It costs a lot to put out this content and I don't mind helping.
It certainly costs a lot of time to make content 🤣 I do spend ages editing and planning videos! I'm sure the creators appreciate your purchases 😊 have a lovely weekend 🥰
You mention Ashton, but unfortunetly he's part of a problem. Had to unsibscribe his channel couldn't stand 15 useless videos a week being excuse to promote coupon codes. My youtube feed was spammed.
Yes, I understand. I am not subbed. I only mentioned him because he was the only person I had seen talk about being removed from PR lists and I thought it was interesting as to the reasons! Thanks for watching 🥰
Hi Claire, very thorough video as always. As a consumer of YT videos with no channel etc, I definitely see the videos I watch as being by two different types of YT-er, those who are more hobbyists e.g. they don't rely on YT for an income, and those who do, and it's more the latter I see as influencers as such (even though obviously anyone can influence, however it's more about the intention and motivation specifically). Most of the channels I watch fall into the former category (Noura from MyWay, Emy from EmysWorldOfFragrance, RoseAndJones, SmurfyGurly, SimplyAyesha) I believe and I think that's partly why I'm drawn to them - their videos feel more genuine, personal and about their own interests in perfume and what they like/fits into their lifestyle. I do watch other channels too, but the style of content is less varied and to me, less like a perfume lover and more like someone who wants to promote things to sell. I don't mind this, as I don't begrudge YB-ers making money at all (in particular I'm very happy to use an affiliate link if I was planning on buying an item any way, as this is a way I can specifically support channels) as long as they are declaring gifted items etc, but I will say it's definitely slightly different in the way I receive the information. I think both types of content have their place on YT, and I don't have a problem with it, but equally I think it's key that consumers are aware of all the points you make here so they can make informed decisions on any purchases they make etc.
Hi Emma ❤️ yes for sure, awareness is key! I made this after talking to a few people who didn't seem to understand the amount of money that people earn from links, it made me realise how no one sees the other side if they aren't involved in content creation. Without this knowledge of the money involved people are in the dark as to the competing interests and motivations for making content. I agree with you, smaller UA-camrs in general make more diverse content because they are less dependent on the need to have big impactful videos that flog a lot of fragrances for affiliate income. The biggest thing for me is the lack of transparency in so many areas across perfume social media. If someone is being paid to make a video or make a reel I want to know what I'm watching! Thanks for watching as always! I really love hearing from you 🥰
Hi Claire! So interesting topic. I appreciate you for explaining this to us mere fragrance videos watchers 😃 I think in the end it all goes down to personal ethics, and that varies tremendously, doesnt'it? 💙💙💙
Hi Carolina! Yes, it sure does 😂 I was actually really shocked when I realised how much money was involved in this, I think that can alter people's outlook. Thanks for watching 🥰
I disagree. The guys I follow haven’t stirred me wrong yet. They’re completely honest and always suggest never to blind buy. Sample first and the suggest the sites tht sale samples.
Lawd have mercy. I've gotten so many questions about your video. I love this for you. This was a brilliant idea. It's true for A LOT of reviewers for sure.
Thank you! ❤️ I was worried about posting this because I had no idea what response this would get but I can't see me ever wanting to earn money in this way, so I just think this is me laying my cards on the table. I felt so upset that that company wouldn't make a charitable donation instead of paying me... It made me realise that I don't want to be associated with such companies anyway. Thanks for watching 🥰
A UA-camr saying not to trust UA-camrs. The irony. I agree. If someone is trying to manipulate your opinion by influencing you with public validation run for the hills. Always verify things for yourself.
Yes, I think you can see for yourself from my videos that I don't have an agenda. I know it's unusual 🤣 but I have a full time job... This is a hobby and will stay that way. My hard drive broke on Friday so I can't make videos for a while anyway. 🤣 Thanks for watching 🥰
A couple of weeks ago I commented on a major UA-camr video sharing my bad experience (niche expensive giving anosmia to me in 30 minutes, bad performance - and I said it in a nice way) with a fragrance he was endorsing. My comment got deleted in no time. I guess he was promoting the brand/fragrance but it was not disclosed as far as I recall.
I've seen these issues. Re point 3 I've seen a guy review a middle eastern fragrance based on the notes of a completely different scent profile where the brand had copy pasted an earlier fragrance and forgot to change the blurb before advertising. Lots of third party retailers then copied the same wrong information. They hate being called out for it, the guy just doubled down that I was arguing about what HIS nose smells. Nope, i was just making it clear for the people who hang on his every word that it's odd that he smells the notes for a rose oud fragrance in a white floral.
Yes, the first lady had been called out a lot and she took it for a bit and then just deleted all the comments. It was towards the end of the video, so probably a lot of people wouldn't get that far. The second lady was quite rude to me when I politely told her she had Divine Decadence not Decadence. I just didn't reply, I wasn't going to argue. You're right, people don't like being called out. Fragrantica is so often wrong, I remember sniffing Orphéon the first time and thinking mmm, I love the rose, and then I checked Fragrantica and it doesn't list rose 🤣 I'm sure it's there! Thanks for watching 🥰
I have 40+ frags in my collection, so consider myself an amateur enthusiast. I stopped watching the frag channels a while ago. They’re fun and can offer some valid insights, but 90% of the channel’s become production lines for pushing the same products.
Yes!!! I remember! Fellow scientist 🥼 I think I just have the same outlook as when I publish something. I would always act ethically in my day job working for public benefit in a university, so why not here too? 😊 Thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you ❤️ You can watch it in real time sometimes as channels grow. You see all the unfiltered opinions disappear and a bias towards certain brands develop. Thanks for watching 🥰
I don’t blindly follow influencers, nor do I click on their affiliate links, even though they have every right to make a living through UA-cam. I simply prefer to do my own research before committing to a fragrance; however, most perfume UA-camrs provide excellent information, such as *truly affordable* fragrances- unlike your idea of affordability costing over £100.
Well that sounds good! And of course they have a right to make a living if that is their chosen profession but what I am saying in this video is that affiliate marketing really needs to be better flagged on social media. For example, is affiliate marketing really something that is actually paid promotion as the person benefits monetarily if someone buys the fragrance through the link? Should video with links be marked as paid promotion? I think this is a debate to be had. I've actually never paid over £45 including delivery for any fragrance as I buy secondhand, so to me, everything I discuss and have a bottle of is very affordable. My Dior Privée fragrances were all £35-45 each for example. Affordable doesn't just have to be RRP, secondhand is a really good option. Thanks for watching 🥰
eBay, I got a partial 250ml bottle, a really I have three right now. I have a video discussing tips and tricks for buying secondhand and I have detailed those buys there. I hope that helps ☺️
Majority of the fragrance influencers feel very fake. As a fragrance enjoyer and collector, I watch some of the fragrance youtubers to discover what's new. If I find any of the perfumes they talk about interest me, I will go and try it in my local beauty shops to test and sample. Whether I end up buying a particular fragrance or not completely depends on my taste. Unfortunately a lot of young people who are addicted to social media blindly trusts their favorite influencers' recommendations.
You are right that some groups seem to be more receptive to consumeristic video messaging than others. I think it can take a while for some viewers to separate an entertaining presentation and how someone's taste relates to the watcher. I agree, if a product is interesting to you, watch with a pinch of salt and go try it. Making your own mind up informed by sampling is the way to avoid disappointment. Thanks for watching 🥰
So true. More than a few times I've gotten the feeling, many of these influencers are little more than actors repeating what they've already read or seen on videos.
I feel like not every influencer are gifted the fragrances (Some are) but rather they just have the means to buy it. I see nothing wrong with affiliate links either and a lot of UA-camrs do make it clear that they can earn commission from the affiliate links at the bottom of their description. Usually you'll know if they are getting paid to hype up a fragrance for example Sboy by Draco I saw that everywhere
For sure, not every influencer are being gifted fragrances. It will depend on their size and geographic location (there is clearly bias towards people making videos in countries with a larger audience or to people with audiences in countries that the brand is sold in, hence the US and UK ones tending to get more opportunities, making this an unequal platform) and whether they choose to accept the items from the brands. I guess what I'd ask in relation to links is: Do you think affiliate links should be something that you have to scroll to the end of the description box to find the disclaimer for? Should it instead be above the links so everyone sees it? If the video is using links, do you think that their promotion of the fragrance in the video is not being monetarily compensated through payments via the links? If so should the video itself be marked as paid promotion? Is the video effectively an advert? Does it show you the product and say how good it is? Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume For me it doesn't matter where they add the disclaimer as long as they have it on there. The viewer will be checking out the links in the description and will most likely come across the disclaimer anyway. The links obviously are making them money but I see nothing wrong with it because you are supporting a content creator that puts many hours into their videos and if the viewer is going to purchase the product anyway then why not? it's a win-win. The links they use, help the viewer save money on a fragrance while the youtuber gets paid too. So when a fragrance reviewer talks about their choices of fragrances I don't consider it paid promotion or advertising they just love sharing their experience with their fragrances while giving you the best deal on it. You won't really know if a product is good or not until you try that product for yourself which is why you should always sample first before buying because your experience and taste can differ from what the review says. This was really well informed video too with many valid points so keep it up 😊
That would make things easier and some do actually provide links for decant sites. What I will say is because they have a worldwide audience I would be happy if they added links to discounters for their European viewers. In the UK we have many good discounter websites too
I find it so irresponsible when influencers keep pushing $500 fragrances in the current financial climate. This is $660 Australian & who in their right mind spends that much on a fragrance. They obviously get them free as they have shelves full. I try the clone version 1st & i think the most i have spent is $250. I never click on links as I shop for best price.
I agree, no one has this kind of money... The most I've ever paid for a fragrance has been £45 (!), because I buy samples or secondhand. 🤷♀️ I don't have the money to spend a lot on fragrance and I have a collection big enough to last a lifetime, so I only really sample most of the time. Thanks for watching 🥰
I refuse to ever spend over $200. My big splurge is Blanche Bete since I really love it. Everything else I try to get for under $150 and have definitely been deep diving into the Middle Eastern Fragrances. I just want a handful of signatures scents to rotate and maybe smell something new once in awhile.
Number 9 is the reason why I stopped doing videos in English and never show my collection because most people is afraid to talk about perfumes because they don’t have a huge shelf full of bottles I did that mistake myself purchasing to feel I belong
Yes! I think there is this typical YT set up of you must have a huge shelf with a load of fragrances on it... There are other ways to make videos and to discuss fragrance for sure. 😊 Thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you ❤️ sadly my laptop broke last week so there might be a delay for new content but I would recommend my clone fragrance video if you enjoyed this. Thanks for watching 🥰
Hey Claire - well you got this up which I hope means good news for your IT issues? 🙏 Excellent video, it takes *courage* to shed light on all of these issues. So much to unpack….I agree that negative reviews are helpful and needed, but as you adeptly pointed out *diplomacy* is key, just as it is in every facet of our lives. I don’t like hearing content creators just trash fragrances 🤬. PR is difficult. Even when they mention it, I have noticed even creators I like starting to be swayed by overpriced brands and hype things that don’t deserve it. We’re all simply not going to blind buy $200+ bottles several times a month. Just no. Also, I hate when everyone seems to receive the same PR at the same time. We’ve all seen it. Everybody seems to be reviewing the same stuff. It’s disappointing 🤬 We all know who those brands are. YTers need to realize we’re not stupid and we notice when everyone is getting the same PR, and perhaps be more transparent about that. Agree on Affiliate links, I rarely use them. Yes - disenchanted with all the “sale” videos lately; creators creating specific content to get subscribers to shop a sale. All they do is run thru bottles they have repeatedly reviewed to get us to spend money 💵💵💵 and you are right: they only talk about narrow brands. Ha ha I bet I can guess who that online retailer collaboration was! 🤔 Ethics are such a slippery slope. My dad told me a long time ago: our ability to rationalize our dubious (or outright bad) behavior is what separates us from the monkeys 🐒😟. Navitus/Vivamor are brands I will never patronize - and the drama surrounding those releases and YTers is distasteful IMO. Lastly YES overconsumption is making me weary 😵💫 I mostly buy samples decants or partials.
Omg Jill this was immense luck! I uploaded this video literally seconds before my hard drive failed 🤣 this was almost lost! Clearly some higher being wanted this shown 😉 I just bought a new laptop £1150 🤦♀️ Yes, I've been told that I can sound angry even when I'm not so I think me talking about things I don't love is a really difficult thing for me to moderate. 🤣 I agree with PR, I was offered Sirene, and I was too late replying cos the email went to my junk, but I was kinda glad in the end because there have been so many videos 🤣 The sale videos irk me and yes, I can't imagine me doing that and that was also part of the reason I was happy to turn a certain retailer down 😉 Your dad is right, the standard we walk past is the standard we accept, I'm not happy with the state of perfume tube so I felt compelled to lay my feelings out. I was a bit worried about the reaction to this but so far, I think people see what I see! And same with the amount of fragrance I buy, it's been a lot of sample sets so far this year 😊 Thanks for watching, it's always lovely to hear from you, you always have insightful comments.
Well is ad revenue monetisation an issue? Do you mind adverts in videos? UA-cam puts adverts in for people who aren't monetised anyway so you probably won't notice the difference between channels who warn nothing Vs those with ad revenue. I think the bigger thing to discuss is affiliate links, because those indirectly put up the price of everything up for all consumers. Thanks for watching 🥰
This was a lot of common sense advice, but it doesn't mean it's not good for the people who need to hear it. That being said, there are people that I watch because I trust their nose. We have similar tastes, so I like the vast majority of their wrecks. If I hate something, they tend to not be super impressed. So I watch their channels as a short cut to SAMPLE new fragrances. There are other people I watch simply because I enjoy their videos, but I know 95% of the things they recommend will not be good for my nose. I said all of that to say, it's all entertainment. No one's word should be taken as the Gospel, unless they are literally reading from the Bible ...and even then take out your Bible and read the verse before it and after it for context. Don't blindly trust ppl on the internet...or if u do know it is what it is.
The title of this video caught my eye and I decided to watch a bit to see what you were like. I didn't know if you would just rant or waffle or be informative, but I wasn't prepared for such an intelligent, coherent, and educational piece. I'm a fan of Ash Kirkland, so some of what you said didn't surprise me but I was shocked by the amounts that people get from affiliate links. You've got a new subscriber.
Thank you ❤️ I think you will struggle to find other fragrance YTbers my size that don't use affiliate links so no one is going tell you how much they get from them! It's not in their interests is it? if you liked this video, you might enjoy my discussion of clone fragrances and the legalities and moral issues surrounding them ua-cam.com/video/hj-dULOUonU/v-deo.html Thanks for watching 🥰
Hi Claire! I agree about so many of the points you made in the video. I love the term "ethical minefield." I used to watch many reviewers who started their channels by reviewing what they truly loved. However, they completely lost their integrity and credibility as their channels grew and sponsorships started rolling in. They began featuring five out of ten fragrances per video from brands they had discount codes for. This is where I draw the line. Would they choose the same fragrances if they weren’t getting paid? I don’t think so. Personally, I’m not against discount codes or affiliate links as long as they’re accompanied by full disclosure, both stated and written. As a small channel, I haven’t received any PR gifts yet, but if I ever do, I’ll make sure to be 100% transparent about it.
Yes I agree, if it doesn't fit with what you are interested in or if it entirely biases your channel in one direction or towards one brand then that's a big no for me too. People talk best about what interests them and people make more interesting videos when they are free from monetary benefit. I think you are on the right track, you are building a loyal following and have unique content. That's what people want. 🥰
Clare you are way more observant than me 🤔I like to hear when people declutter perfumes and why they do and not just let them go and we hear nothing about them again 🤷♀️ So much fake reviews out there and I realize I’m not going to go anywhere with morals and integrity LOL I’m ok with that ( people who pay for subscribers and views are indeed hollow inside ) I will continue to have fun LOL HUGS ❤
Yes me too! I love to hear why something doesn't work for someone as much as why someone loves something, it's fascinating! And yes, there are incredibly quick ways to become monetised or to get big on Instagram but ultimately what keeps me warm and fuzzy inside is the interaction with subscribers, I love hearing what people think 😊 and it's fun, you are right 🥰 many many hugs! 🥰
It's true, if your aim is for subs and money then new is the way to get there. I don't mind growing slowly and only getting Adrevenue, I feel I make more interesting videos when I'm not concentrating on potential views and subs. And sometimes, like with this video, it can really take you by surprise how popular something can be.
Tall tale signs they're illegitimate are having 6 or more of a brand and they love them all with every brand they own, there are no unique opinions, they just read the fragrantica, they are talking while pretending to smell a scent strip playing it like a cello bow under their nose while talking, they look like they have a big production setup is a good indicator
Thank you for your honesty. There are certain notes I cannot abide, like blackberry, strong jasmine, black currant, and gourmands in general. I have bought fragrances based on the recommendations of certain influencers and absolutely hated. After looking on line for all the notes, they had the very ones I could not stand. I now order samples, but read all about them first. I'm still looking for that signature scent that will make my heart sing.
That's really interesting, I think reviewer's definitely have biases towards what they enjoy in fragrance and that can mean they fail to mention something that's prominent but that they don't feel positively or negatively towards. It can be difficult to gauge their enthusiasm levels too sometimes. Some people are ejist naturally more bouncy and enthusiastic sounding than others. Sampling and research is definitely the way to a more successful perfume wardrobe ☺️ thanks for watching 🥰
8:01 the highest level of collaboration would probably be... not disclosing that you are related to the owners of the niche house you are always shilling lol....
When I first got into Fragrance many years ago I was influenced by Katie Puckrik and Luca Turin. When I got back into fragrance 3 years ago I didn’t realize how much had changed at first. Took me a while to get my bearings in this new climate… a learning curve for sure.
Kate Puckrik was absolutely fab! ❤️ I love it when I stumble across one of her videos simply by accident! Her reviews are super fun! Yes, for sure, the whole arena has changed and it's pivoted towards what earns money and that doesn't make for distinctive or interesting content at all. 🤷♀️
I’m shocked by English UA-cam issues. Tons of presents an PR 😱 l’m Ukrainian UA-cam blogger in the Ukrainian language and none of global brаnds knows about me or is interested in collaborating. And all my opinions are honest. Get the recipe how to get rid of PR issues😉
Thank you! ❤️ Well we all know fragrance is incredibly overpriced for larger brands so there's always going to be wiggle room, but being able to offer blanket 30%+ discounts begs questions. Have a fab weekend 🥰
Good Afternoon lovely Claire ❤️ so many interesting valid points discussed, I’ve always just used my instinct and I know what I love and what I look for when it comes down to fragrances , I can’t be influenced because I grew up in a city where “things” were being sold in every corner 🤣😉 I think I learned from an early age who’s trying to pull me in for their benefit and how to stay true and be my own person, no one can sell me something, if I buy it’s because I genuinely want to, this video is extremely helpful to so many, I have seen such a shift in the fragrance community and I sometimes get annoyed but my common sense kicks in and I understand people want to make money and it’s up to us individually to choose wisely or maybe do as I do support those I believe in or watch to educate myself in fragrance and continue my journey of being a fragrance collector ❤️ ( I’ve always trusted your positive vibes!)
Hi Sunny! Yes! Being selective is the way to go I think. 😊 We know from watching for a long time who we want to support and who we maybe don't watch after more experience. The bottom line is right, that we are responsible for the decisions that we make and what we choose to buy. I think I am similar to you, it's pretty hard to sell me something now... I've been burnt so many times 🤣 thanks for watching and have a lovely Sunday 🥰
I’ve noticed even outside of the fragrance community that affiliate links are getting completely out of hand. With creators throwing together an image of things they’ve been loving followed by a bunch of affiliate links. Then they are doing this weekly and I find it very pushy but I guess it just another avenue for them to make money. I suppose it works for them but I don’t care for it.
Hi Claire! I’m having big trust issues with youtubers right now. I always did but it got worst recently when I bought many Middle Eastern perfumes people rave about… I was very underwhelmed and it made me question many youtubers that talk about them like the biggest invention on earth… taste is a reality but when I don’t even get half the notes they talk about, I get suspicious! 😅😂 Amazing informative video! 🙌🏻🙌🏻
Hi Julie, thank you ❤️ Yes me too! I got so burnt with Lattafa and Afnan that I gave up for a bit. Those fragrances are cheap but they collectively add up and resale can be pointless or just a pain. Thanks for watching 🥰
This is sooo true. I finally stopped blind buying bc of raving reviews - I've done that so many times and have ended up with many bottles that wasn't anywhere near what I expected (even after checking fragrantica and other UA-cam reviews). Now, I know which notes I like, sort of which UA-camrs I trust, started buying more samples, and hopefully will not make the mistakes I have over the last two years. Thank you for your integrity 😊
And yet, Gents Scents has a video called "50 MUST OWN Fragrances For Beginners To Build An AMAZING Collection" all with affiliate links. This isn't perfume appreciation, it's consumerism.
Yes! 😂 I solely linked his video as an exemplar of the brand-creator relationship breakdown. I know he does a lot of what I'm calling out here sadly. That is unfortunately most large, if not just most overall, YTs. It's sadly seen as a money maker even by people claiming this is a "hobby". Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume People should be warned about the perfume rabbit hole. I speak from experience. I have about 150 bottles of perfume which I regret today. I was in the second wave of the WordPress-based perfume blogosphere (my first post was June 1, 2010). I gave perfume history and classification talks in libraries and universities back in the day. The quality of perfume criticism today is dismal (I have only seen one of your videos and so present company excepted). The worst of them all was Jeremy fragrance. Gents scents is a close second and The Perfume Guy. These people have no sense of perfume history or anything outside of the perfume world. All men's perfumes are compared to Aventus or Sauvage. They list notes like recipe ingredients... no knowledge of the science behind perfume. Oh well... time marches on.
Well look what is being released... Both in designer and main brand niche... If you love iso E super and ambroxan, you're sorted 😂 I think I'd agree with you actually, when I first started, I was buying loads and without much thought. I still make loads of mistakes but I really don't want my collection to grow from where it's at, which is about 115 bottles. I would prefer it shrank...
It took me MONTHS to realize that Fragrantica very often DELETES negative reviews.. which had the unfortunate effect of me naively buying some very trumped up scents only to be disappointed and somewhat confused as to why I wasn’t experiencing the same thing..I really detest that feature and find it hard to then trust ratings & reviews. I genuinely love the platform BUT have seen many people bullied or simply downvoted for having a negative opinion of their favorite fragrance. It was (and is) why I’m always very careful how I word any reviews I write; and even so I’ve had mine “disappeared” even though it was not offensive other than not giving a glowing review. I’ve also, since starting my fragrance journey, become aware of the absolute fragrance “snobs” that will default to hatred of any and all “designer” or mainstream fragrances that are absolutely beautiful & popular for a reason! I absolutely applaud your honesty and it definitely pulls back the veil a bit so we, the consumer, can have some clarity.
You are right! Fragrantica is quite a brutal place sometimes, I think I'd also use the word bullying. I think it's awful that people can't express negative opinions politely without those opinions being downvoted and removed. I agree, there is snobbiness around fragrance. When I first started, I had a relatively cheap collection, I still do, I don't really buy many pricey ones as I can't afford them, and I don't want 1000s sitting on my dresser, going off. But I felt really so alienated by the platform and some of the creators here at the beginning. Thanks for watching, I really was just reaching a point where I couldn't not make this video. The charity donation thing was about the last straw. Have a fab Friday 😊
@@dr.claire.perfume thanks so much for taking the time to respond! And you summed it up perfectly. Basically my experience as well, unfortunately. Thanks again!
We’ve become obsessed with skipping ads/commercials just to watch an ad/commercial.
⬆️ exactly 💯 thanks for watching 🥰
Well said.
UA-cam made me buy it.
True!😄😄😄😄😄 Btw Claire, great video!
Thank you 🥰
Im just so fed up with influencers posting "perfumes im obsessed with right now" only to find out all their recommendations are gifted perfumes...🤦🏻♀️
⬆️ this! Absolutely 💯 the disappointment of finding out they were all free and they might not have bought or known about a single one of them if they had not been sent them...🤦♀️ Thanks for watching 🥰
I have a lot of gifted fragrances that I got in PR. The only pr I accept are from fragrances I’ve been wanting anyways, and I know that’s the same situation for alot of creators. I don’t accept or ask for pr if I don’t think I’ll like the fragrance.
Not exactly the same, but a list of their favorite affordable ones only to see it in a decluttering video right after I buy it.
Just last week, one influencer got a promo code. Suddenly, all her "most complimented" fragrances were only the ones sold on the site that had given her the code.
@marisamountaki 100% agree. I unsubbed from an influencer because he tried to hide this.
Overconsumption is something I’m facing now. I want to minimize blind buying in the future.
Thanks for this video, Claire. Balance is important in this space 💛😊
Yes, I agree with you, I've slipped up a few times already this year thinking that I'd love something that it turned out that I didn't. It's still a thing for me too so I understand that it's a hard cycle to break. Thanks for watching 🥰
Same, I never blind buy full bottles I’m too picky, but I do go nuts with over-buying sample vials/small decants…always driven by so many influencer reviews!
@@writejules those add up too 😂 I know from personal experience 🤦♀️ samples are great though! It's lovely to try new things affordably. 🥰
As someone who has been doing the YT fragrance bit for 10 years, I agree with the majority of your points. I've seen a massive change in this community and the influencer culture has made me remove myself from most of this community. I was very good friends with a number of these big name influencers but I just got tired of the business side and lack of genuine friendships which turned out to be more about the business in the end.
Yes that's sad, I think of the people I started with and made connections with, most have stopped making videos. A few are much more successful than me and have many more subs with affiliate links and brand deals, but I really quite like being part of a small community and having a chat with people, that's all.... The response to this video feels like a lot for me. I am not sure I understand it really. 🙃 Thanks for watching 🥰
These days most of the bigger perfume channels (over 20k subs) are salespeople pretending to be reviewers. You can usually spot them because whenever a "niche" brand puts out a new fragrance, they all suddenly get a full bottle and post an overwhelmingly positive review, and never mention that fragrance again... and of course, they never discuss price (they got sent it for free) or value for money (because it isn't).
Niche? How about the sudden popularity of previously unheard of middle eastern clone houses out of Dubai?
@@shave-a-thon3415funny that lots of fragrance channels are based in Dubai….
😂 facts
@@shave-a-thon3415 I'm laughing out loud at this, it made me immediately think of the Instagram influencers in their 20s with a wall of $600 perfumes behind them. For all the issues of You tube Perfume land, I do love the community of true perfume nerds we have.
So annoys me when they never try any cheaper alternatives & become quite a perfume snob when you say you like an older designer perfume
You hit the nail on the head. I go to UA-camrs to learn about new releases or popular fragrances, but I always go to Fragrantica to see what real people are actually saying about the fragrance and it is often completely different.
😂 yes! It's always good to check multiple points of view! Thanks for watching 🥰
Nailed it!!! I have unsubscribed from all the influencers that only focus on niche brands with affiliate links. It’s gotten ridiculously out of hand!
It's a bit too much sometimes isn't it? Thanks for watching 🥰
Your charity idea was such a good one. I wish they had taken you up on the offer. Also on that note, heart surgery is lot for anyone to go through but especially a child. I’m really glad you’re on this earth ❤️
I thought it was! They didn't even reply though 🤷♀️ I found that extremely rude.
Yes! I can vividly remember suddenly being able to lay on my stomach, walk for more than 3 mins, ride my cycle after the operation, it was like a rebirth. ☺️ I think it must be harder to deal with when you're older. You would be more scared I think.
@@dr.claire.perfume oh yes, that rebirth feeling makes so much sense ❤️ I am wishing you continued health for many decades to come!
Thank you! I am officially normal now, the only niggle is my left shoulder isn't in the correct place as the surgeon accessed my heart from the left side of my body. It looks odd and spasms sometimes but I'm happy that's my only side effect 😊
❤ that so would have been appropriate and you have to go with what is right as well
Social Media is a marketers dream. Ads are cheap and you have a captive pre-selected audience of subscribers. 🤩 Greed can be a good thing if it motivates you to develop something useful. But when it motivates you to give up your integrity or purpose, it will crush your soul.
⬆️ this! Spot on! Thanks for watching 🥰
Absolutely Correct, straight up 👍💟
This right here 👏
Thank for this! I used to make perfume. My brand was Sebastiane. I had a really popular gourmand perfume called Espresso Royale. I have since stopped making perfume for the reasons you mention. I was shocked at how cut throat the perfume community is. Those FB perfume groups where a nightmare for me.
That's really sad isn't it, this is the problem, smaller brands just get pushed out. Social media and its creators should be supporting and featuring smaller brands much more. It's where all the creativity is. Thanks for watching 🥰
Oh my god, you made Espresso Royale? I've recommended that to so many people over the years!
Claire, you are a breath of fresh air. If only more people were like you. Thanks for “spilling the tea”.
Thank you 🥰 I'm never going to be an influencer so I'm ok with saying this but I get that many others want the extra income and PR so this kind of video would be a complete no for them!
What a great video again, Claire! Thank you!
I was thinking about the point you 've made about Navitus for a long time now! I was watching an influencer promoting another influencer's new fragrance, thinking: ...how could I believe anything that she's saying? Clearly, they are promoting each other alternatingly, regardless of what the perfume smells like.
It's weird isn't it? I've never seen anyone say anything about it either... But then I don't watch many influencer videos so I might have missed it. Thanks for watching 🥰
Honestly, as a viewer I am fully aware about PR and affiliate links and such. Whenever I listen to recommendations I take these things in mind and make sure I investigate further through other sources before I decide to buy something. And if I decide to buy after this, and it was because of someone's UA-cam video, why shouldn't I click on the affiliate link and help them out in turn, just as they did? People spend hours filming, editing and planning videos that they should be compensated for. I understand if for some doing this is just a hobby, but it doesn't take away from the fact that it takes a lot of effort to produce anyway. I think people are intelligent enough to not take word for word everything said by influencers and do your own research, but that's just my opinion
I think the problem with using links is that that cost is built into fragrance pricing, so overall we are all paying more because of those links. I'm not going to change this but I think it's important for people to see this and also to recognise the huge amounts of money involved which inevitably will colour how people present their views on fragrances. Many people don't realise that it's not pennies here, it's several £££. I do this as a hobby but I do spend hours making videos but I don't expect to earn anything more than ad revenue from it. It's fun and I don't want to sell things to people I am part of a community with. Friends would always want someone to get the best deal for something and these links are often not the best deal, except for the influencer that is. Thanks for watching 🥰
I don't know a single YT community based off consumer goods that isn't clearly full of people who actually do regularly fall for influencer marketing. It's not about intelligence but experience and learning to recognise when someone sells or is genuine, to recognise the issues w consumerism to start with etc it's a learning process for people and it can take a while. Last time I checked kids in school don't take courses on how not to get manipulated by consumerism
@@exomake_mehorololo I agree.
@@dr.claire.perfumeSocial media has not invented the wheel of consumerism or advertising. They have always used people who have bases, followings, or were popular. And yes the cost of advertising is built into the cost. However I wouldn't penalize a person who grew their base and suspect them of lying because they have a large channel. I've always bought and loved perfumes the old school way through magazine samples, and trips to the mall. Then it was samples from my makeup purchases at Ulta and Sephora. Things change. But the consumer can change what's going on even now. As I add to my collection I can tell who knows what they are talking about versus the trend pusher. I do my own research, it's just what I do with all things. But I'm older and a UA-camr since 2006 so my perspective may be different.😂
Watching this video made me feel as if I was reading an academic paper in which perfume influencing on UA-cam was critically reviewed. Thank you, Claire, for this highly educative piece. I learnt a lot.
Oh wow! 😊 That's the best loveliest comment yet ❤️ thank you! I'm happy that you enjoyed it, have a lovely weekend 🥰
It's actually hilarious to see some of the people who I consider to be unethical in these comments praising this video. Unreal.
🙊🙈 I'm saying nothing 🤣
I used to follow a content creator, who makes at least 3 videos per week. Last year, she made a video about fragrances she wears the most. I was stunned by two things: 1) none of those mentioned were ones about which she had waxed poetically and had promoted in her numerous videos; 2) the ones she actually wears are ones on which she had spent her own money. That was an eyeopening moment for me, and quickly unfollowed.
Yes, I can imagine she was actually being true to what she enjoys for that one video... I think it's probably hard for influencers, because their preferences are essentially available to purchase by brands and they have to aware their every opinion might have knock on effects in future. It must be really a minefield for them not to tie themselves in knots if they aren't always expressing their true feelings and it must take a lot of thinking about. Thanks for watching ❤️
There can be non-malignant reasons for this. An expert in a subjective field such as perfumes or music can appreciate or rank highly things they wouldn't wear or listen to very often. Just as a random example, I think Sgt. Pepper is a better album than the White Album according to certain standards but I much prefer listening to the White Album and rarely listen to Sgt. Pepper. I can appreciate the quality of something while not preferring it to something else. Also if a person has dozens or even hundreds of perfumes that's way more than a human being needs and they are inevitably going to reach for only a small amount of them routinely.
@@smolderingtitan How interesting that every single one she claims she wears the most are the ones on which she had spent her money. How interesting that never once had she ever mentioned any of those fragrances in the hundreds of videos she has made. Also, she is not an "expert" in this field, so your analogy doesn't quite work.
@@sherwood9917 my analogy works. I don't know anything about the specific case you're mentioning and am, therefore, not defending them. I'm making a general statement about things to consider when judging someone on something like this and that would include what they paid for and what they didn't pay for or their incentives.
You could be 100% right and what I am saying would remain valid. I don't take anyone's word for anything even if they have no overt incentive to lie unless I'm familiar with them as a reliable source. And they may be reliable on some things and not on others.
In the specific case you're mentioning I would want to know if she gave glowing reviews of every fragrance (or the percentage) she received.
@@smolderingtitan Sounds good to me.
3:49 I like this point . I’ve found you cannot judge a persons knowledge on their appearance nor collection . I own about 25 fragrances, and am usually rocking pajamas because of my disability… however I know more about fashion history , designers and now through great research, more about perfume than one might guess . Sometimes for hobbyists and collectors, it’s the accumulation of knowledge that is just as satisfying and exciting as accumulating physical goods. It’s quite hilarious when sales associates make these judgements though , fun times.
Yes! Exactly! I don't want a huge collection of fragrances or to own full bottles of things that cost £350+, I may not own lots but I've tried lots and I know a lot of history, chemistry and social science around fragrance, to me that's the joy of this, not owning everything under the Sun and having £10000s sitting on my shelves unused. To me, that's pointless. Equally if I bought something 4 years ago and still use it, I'm not going to declutter it because it's no longer trending. My collection is for me!
People do judge sadly and yes sales assistants are quite bad for that. I think science has taught me though that appearance is nothing and words are everything.
Have a fab Sunday 🥰
Once a month I go through who I am subscribed too, to check in with myself on if they are adding to my life. Because in truth I’m giving my time and hours to watching and liking and commenting. So you’re hitting all the points I agree with and can appreciate. Thank you for being you ❤
❤ thats great advice. I do the same thing
Thank you ❤️ and yes, I think there's a degree of giving people a chance but if they are just salespeople and their content doesn't interest you then it's the thing to do. YT does take a crazy amount of time, both for the audience and creators. Thanks for watching 🥰
I just deleted about fifty subscriptions two days ago. Good call.
This video was pure gold. I appreciate your honesty and it’s something I’ve seen. It’s such a dilemma because if you’re only making content for the money, it can quickly become fake. There’s definitely a fine line between shelling out and making content you love for the community you love while making a little bit of money to support it. Cheers to your channel growth! ❤
Thank you ❤️ I think that is really what monetisation is for. It's not a lot but really it adds up... I completely agree, content shouldn't constantly chase views or affiliate income, both lead to very samey videos from everyone. Thanks for watching 🥰
When making purchases, I try to go directly to the actual fragrance house…..
Yes, that's the best way, especially for supporting smaller brands. Thanks for watching 🥰
Thanks Claire. That was very educational to me. With only a year of fragrance obsession under my belt, it didn't take long to narrow down who is trustworthy on UA-cam. And I honestly never thought about their income & I rarely use affiliate links. I'm just interested in a honest review. And I love declutters explaining why you're not in love anymore. The system does promote excess consumption. But I feel it's our own personal responsibility to not go there. Really enjoyed your video.
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy that you enjoyed it. I think the more you watch, the more you figure that out. The amount of affiliate income people earn must be astounding. And yes, I love seeing people explain why they didn't love something, I find it fascinating and I do try to be a considerate consumer, but I know my collection is still too big for me. I am trying to reduce it. Thanks for watching 🥰 have a fab weekend! ☺️
Who are the trustworthy ones? I'm new to this...
What a wonderful video. You have verbalized so many of my own thoughts. I would like to say these Middle Eastern Fragrances come before they have matured. I have received perfumes that have absolutely no smell. After two or three months, the perfume blossomed and I could realize the true fragrance. Some were wonderful, some went in the garbage, unwearable for anyone. Many reviewers open the packages of these perfumes in front of you and review these perfumes. It is obvious to me they are reading ingredients and carrying on about the layers and reading promos. I wonder how they can review these scents. I receive some of those bottles and they have not at all developed. They are really faking the whole video on these new releases. I have bought into some of the hype and some of these perfumes are really bad after they mature; just a jumble of combined scents with this new Middle Eastern rave to sell product. Yes, you never hear about these bottles again because it was all fake and they had no reality about the true scent.
Yes I agree, I don't review fragrances for several months after buying them. When I sample, I do so multiple times. It's usually 3 or more unless it's absolute instant hatred.
I think with Middle Eastern fragrances, especially the cheaper end of the market, those videos get so many views, that people who aren't even interested in those fragrances review them. I agree, you need to let them sit for a good while before you can judge. I left mine for two months before initial review and they changed a bit even after that!
I did not fall for any of these ME fragrances- I haven’t even bother to test them yet. I’m just waiting to see the ones that real people mention on Reddit groups or see if these influencers that made a video saying awesome things about that particular fragrance will end up put it for sale on Mercari a month later.
@marib9907 Me neither... Videos ranking the best ME fragrances and ME declutterings have already started to appear 😂😂.
They certainly seem to have a quick turnover on most channels. 🧐
I’m shocked at how much influencers can make per bottle sale. I never thought about that. But given the absolutely ridiculous rise in perfume costs (especially regular designer fragrances) it makes sense. I’m grateful for your video for drawing attention to how influencers operate.
It's loads isn't it? It's not just a few pennies... Social media works though doesn't it? So I'm sure brands will just carry on 🤦♀️ thanks for watching 🥰
Yes to everything you said today, Claire! I did not know the percentages of money influencers were making on each affiliate link purchase that followers make.
On another topic: I had my first experience of getting tricked into buying a fake fragrance on an online second-hand store. After buying a travel size spray of Diptyque Fleur de Peau, I bought what appeared to be a slightly used bottle at a nice price. When I received the item, to my surprise it was still in the original plastic wrapping. The packaging and the bottle looked very convincing, but the juice smelled nothing like the real thing. I went to a local department store to get a genuine spray, and it smelled like my original travel spray, but not the fake bottle. My partner surprised me by buying a real new bottle from NOSE. So now I can see all the minor ways the two versions of packaging and bottle differ. These fake perfume distributors clearly have companies, factories, and smart designers. Ugh.
Thank you, as always, for your thoughtful and ethical content. Have a lovely day. 🦋🧡🦋
Thank you ❤️
Oh gosh, I'm so sorry, that's so awful! I love Fleur de Peau, I can see why you were buying a bottle after a travel spray. The fakes are pretty spot on sometimes, it's hard to tell until you spray them. I hope you can get the money back 🤞 it was so lovely of your husband to buy you a bottle. I have had it happen to me twice now and I felt really silly but it's almost impossible to tell until you actually have it in your hands...
Thank you for always watching and supporting me, I really appreciate it 🥰
So kind of you to offer the brand making the donation. They really missed out on not taking you up on it.
I guess it was more complicated than just paying someone. 🤷♀️ I don't feel comfortable taking money for this though and I felt that was the best solution. 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume They have a very specific marketing strategy that's been likely confirmed through market research to be maximally effective at convincing potential customers to buy. They don't want an independent review--they want an *advertisement*, but done in that friendly, organic, down to earth way. These companies realize now that traditional advertising makes people do the squinty face the fish guy did in that episode of Spongebob where the latter faked dying at the beach. They're trying to fake authenticity to bypass people's obvious fatigue with constant advertising.
You offered actual, genuine authenticity and a goal to make the world a bit of a better place. For the snakes in marketing that's like garlic for vampires, sadly.
Last year I was interested in Althaïr by PDM. Everyone and their grandmother was talking about it. Not just fragrance reviewers, but in a fragrance group I used to be in on FB.
I was watching Demi Rawling unbox the fragrance on Instagram and UA-cam, and was blown away by the gorgeous presentation.
I had never ordered from PDM, and couldn’t wait to have the same experience. It’s a $365 fragrance, currently, and it seemed more than worth it.
The package came.
And guess what was inside?
The fragrance in a small box. And some crinkle paper.
That was it.
Yes, I ordered directly through PDM.
I reached out to PDM, as I assumed there was some mistake. I thought they would be mortified.
I asked where the gorgeous packaging with the bow was. I asked where the collector’s booklet on the fragrance was, as shown in the video.
And I couldn’t believe it, when they told me that the reason Demi had received that presentation was because they have “a professional relationship” with her.
“So wait. She got all of that for free…and when I pay $365, I get less??? You’re a luxury brand-how does that make sense??? And if all of that isn’t available to everyone, why was she showing it on camera???”
After pushing like a Karen, they asked for my address. And sent me a discovery set in the nice packaging.
It was nice of them. But the experience really changed my perception of both their brand, and fragrance influencers.
I also sell jewelry. And over a year ago, I put a ton of effort into making a jewelry collection inspired by iconic fragrance bottles. I reached out to soooo many of these reviewers who I watch, hoping to collaborate. And not *one* would give me the time of day. I couldn’t believe it. I was like, “jeez…how many hours of watch time have I given your channel over the last few years???”
It makes me sort of think that many of them are getting paid a LOT of money, to the point where they can turn their noses up at small/indy collabs.
I dunno. I can’t really tell who to trust. Maybe the only UA-cam fragrance reviewer I realllllly trust is Sebastian.
I used to watch Monika all the time. But I get beyond irritated on her men’s channel that she refers to everything as “cologne”, when she’s talking about an EDP or EDT or Parfum, probably because that’s what dudes who are uneducated about fragrances call them (how about educating them, instead…they aren’t “colognes”). And on both of her channels, she always talks about smelling good for the opposite sex. I’ve left so many comments saying that not everyone dates the opposite sex…and the comments are completely ignored.
To me, that means that she is targeting one audience and one audience only, and will do whatever she has to do to sell on behalf of the brands, rather than caring about the emotions of her audience.
Anyway. Rant over.
Thanks for the very honest and helpful video.
Your point about colognes is something I have also thought about. I assume because that is the general word used for male marketed fragrance in the US, but yes, it's factually inaccurate, and I believe she is living in the UK, so that again makes zero sense.
And yes, I know, I made a video about the fragrance notes scientifically studied and said (cos those studies are middling at best in their proof levels 😂) to be attractive to men on women and vice versa. I said in those videos, either in the video or the description box that I am sorry to exclude people but the science really isn't there for studies for other preferences. I felt awful. When I made a video about floral meanings, I specifically talked about the importance of carnations to the gay community as that was so interesting! I want to be inclusive but often I see people making tags that specifically focus on hetero relationship constructs. It's hard to try to turn the tide, but I'm trying, trust me. I never gender fragrance now, and I haven't done for at least two years, I think people need to make their own minds up based on their personal taste. Not be dictated to.
And yes, Demi will have got the media kit, which basically tells them the messages that the brand wants to convey. The customer won't get that unfortunately.
I am sorry that people weren't interested in showing your jewellery. For me, it's when I'm offered a product that is nothing to do with what I talk about that I refuse, but that does seem to be to do with fragrance, so I don't understand why one person didn't say yes.
Thanks for watching and for your interesting comment. Have a fab week 🥰
Demi Rawling’s boyfriend Pierre-Louis Berrier.
“Demi Rawling is dating a typical "fils a papa" french kid from Dubai who she met on a yacht in Cannes, France. The kid is the son of one of the two managers of Sprecher Berrier Group of Companies (Dubai). One of the two managers is Jean-Francois Sprecher (not the kid's father). Some of the brands owned or/and distributed by SBGC: Initio, PDM, BDK Parfums, etc...”
Great video, really appreciate you sharing your insights
Thank you ❤️
So many scented mercenaries out there, I rather stay small but honest !
I'm happy you are healthy now ! That company was not interested in charity, big shame on them 😡🤮😡
The Extragentsscents is a genuine one like you💖😍
Yes absolutely! ☺️
I did feel really sad about that. I don't really want to take money though, however temporarily... I'd rather not handle it, so I don't feel bad for asking that they pay them directly. I guess it wasn't to be!
Thanks for watching, have a lovely weekend 🥰
Hello Dr. Claire, another interesting video!
It's so odd that company wouldn't agree to the donation, I think it's a great idea and would even save them money 🤷♀️
I am all for women making money and using affiliate links for things they already love. I can see how it can become a problem when they are pushing products just to make money. I guess it's our job as a consumer to do our due diligence and to follow genuine people. I try to be genuine and I try to be careful with the content I consume.
Hi Carmen! I think it's understandable from a business point of view, I was complicated and they couldn't just pay me to say something positive. They didn't even bother to reply... I'm sure they are paying someone who just said yes and took the money. 🤷♀️
It's personal choice with links isn't it? I do think they need better regulation though as to how they are presented on social media.
This is just a hobby for me, so I just don't want to have to think about money at all, this is just an escape... Thanks for watching 🥰
People who know nothing about fragrances are reviewing fragrances for thousands of people and all they're doing is replaying the same thing as the last UA-camr. It's beyond frustrating. I can't stand it.
Seeing the same opinion is a little puzzling isn't it? Fragrance is really something that should prompt a diverse set of views. 🤔
Thank you ! I have taken people off of my subscribe list because I feel their promotions made their reviews not real!!! I followed this woman from beginning and she was down to earth and I love that she brought up perfumes that were NOT hyped but then she collaborated with a niche perfume store and all she mentioned was those perfume!!! I decided not to watch those because I feel it’s fake! Believe me I get the collaborations but add some others fragrances!!!! Thank you again and thanks for letting me vent 😂
Yeah it's a real shame isn't it? I've seen it a few times with people I've followed when they've got bigger. I get it because people want money and want to grow and getting a tonne of free stuff or income helps you to achieve that but I think sometimes being true to where you started is also important. I do think collaborations can mean stuff is perhaps not exactly your own unfiltered opinion. Thanks for watching 🥰
You are a breath of fresh air Claire and I think you're going to ruffle a few feathers 😂 I was nodding along with everything you said.
I didn't realise how much is earned through affiliate links. I've never used them. I totally understand everyone has to make a living but I always wonder if someone is really being honest when they have affiliate links. I take some reviewers with not so much a pinch of salt, more a heaped tablespoon 😂
Heaped teaspoon 🤣 thanks Fiona! Yes, I was a little worried about posting this. People can of course do what they want and some people want to support channels by purchasing through links, I get that too, but I would like people to be transparent that it isn't pence, it's many, many pounds that they get from each purchase. And I think that amount of money really can change what people say. Thanks for watching and supporting me! I really appreciate it and look forward to hearing from you! 🥰
I mostly just enjoy listening to people talk about perfume. I do appreciate the folks that disclose PR gifts, feature bottles of well loved (large dents) fragrances, describe fragrances according to their noses instead of regurgitating notes from Fragrantica, and just genuinely seem to LOVE fragrance in general.
Social media is so weird, and I could never make content a full time job. I couldn’t handle the constant negativity from strangers. What is it with humanity and the urge to be so negative, mean, & hateful ALL THE TIME anyway? High five to everyone committed to doing what they truly enjoy and being able to slug through the ugly side of that stuff.
Influencers definitely play a role in mass consumerism, but it’s ultimately on the consumer to be responsible with their money and not blame influencers for impulse buying. I appreciate your content because it’s different, fun, well thought out, and I can tell you enjoy discussing the content you put out every week. The science content is my favorite. 😊 I also appreciate the transparency.
Hope you are having a good weekend.
Thank you! Yes I agree with all of that! I think big influencers do get a lot of people who think they are funny or are just downright mean... On the whole I've not had to deal with that thankfully.
I do love talking about my content and the issues around every aspect of fragrance. I think there's much more to perfumery and to discuss than simply recommendations. 😊
I've had a tricky weekend, so Friday, I was uploading this video and it just finished and my hard drive on my laptop just stopped working... So today I chose and bought a new laptop, but that was s £1150 🤯 and also all my current video plans were lost, along with my editing software... So next week who knows, but probably no video whilst I sort everything out 🤦♀️
Thanks for watching and for your support! I appreciate it 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume oh no, that sucks about your laptop. That’s another driver for UA-camrs I guess. The bigger they get, the more reliable in posting they need to be, their production quality has to get better and all that costs money. I’ve seen people comment and complain when they think the quality isn’t good enough 😮. A bit of a vicious circle.
@@nellukeyes! I get these comments... I make videos in my living room and don't have a budget for equipment, especially with my new laptop now 🤣 so I'm afraid there does need to be a little bit of tolerance with video and audio quality. Hopefully content is enough to carry this through 🙈
I think you do an excellent job Claire.
I agree with you on everything! But you see those DENTS you talked about? Even you could walk around your house/apartment intentionally spraying out a good amount so that it looks like you actually like it so much that you're putting that much dent in it. So even the dents are questionable to me.
Disheartening, but also not surprising that the subscription co. wasn’t moved by your charity idea.
Even when UA-camrs disclose things like affiliate links, PR, etc., I follow some on selling platforms like Mercari and have seen them sell off fragrances that were raved about in Mother’s Day videos, top 10 spring videos or something of the like. So it does come off as disingenuous to me no matter what.
I felt really sad about it. My only hope is that the person who failed to reply was with a PR agency and not with the brand itself perhaps? Either way, I think someone talking about such a service who isn't being paid is probably a better "advert" for it.
Absolutely, you can see it here on eBay too. I have found lots of people's accounts. I have seen people quietly off loading PR, I guess that's tempting as it's pure profit. Thanks for watching 🥰
Voicing their own opinion on fragrances has nothing to do with you. If you don’t like what they say then don’t watch them. So what if they have sponsorships. In the end the UA-camrs are entertainment. The opinion doesn’t really matter but are they entertaining.
I think I watch UA-cam for recommendations, so these kinds of affiliate link-biased opinions are really not helpful for me. I mainly watch small channels who I have a more personal relationship with as a result. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume I understand but in the end it’s just entertainment. Just like people who do financial videos. They say a disclaimer that what they say is entertainment purposes not financial advice.
@@benedicttorre3401 that's because they don't want to be sued 🤣 no one in their right mind takes financial advice from a YTber. You need someone who knows your particular situation.
@@dr.claire.perfume exactly! That’s why it doesn’t matter what other fragrances reviewers say. It’s about the person who buys it. Believe me I have bought tons of fragrances that I ended up not using at all. I bought them. It’s not about what other reviewers say.
If people are genuine I have no problem with affiliate links etc. Let them eat while others save its mutually beneficial. Even if they aren't being genuine and don't like a fragrance they're promoting its up to the customer to sample before buying
I am an old frag lady and just began my YT fragrance journey January 1, 2024. Making YT frag videos is fun and I do it for fun. I currently have 3 affiliate links that I post in my description. But, I always emphasize that the fragrance prices fluctuate like the stock market. I encourage my viewers to check multiple online sites (that are not affiliates that I also include) to be sure they are not overpaying. I tell them that when they save more, they can buy more. My goal on my YT channel is to bring viewers along on my fragrance journey and learn to appreciate fragrances and hopefully identify with me and my untrained nose as we rediscover our gift of scent. I watched your entire video and agree with most of what you presented. I took notes and want to be sure that I do not fall into any of the 13 categories of YT frag influencers you highlighted. I am a caregiver spouse for my chronically ill and disabled Sweetheart. My fragrance obsession is an outlet for the stress of being a caregiver over the last 20 years. I am 77 years old and have no idea how to be less than honest about any fragrance I review. Thank you for pulling back the curtain surrounding some perfume influencers and others with affiliate links. I have found several really genuine fragrance influencers and truly enjoy their candid reviews and their revelations about their paid or gifted endorsements and honest reviews. I want to grow my channel to be like them and your.❤❤
Oh good luck, yes I agree, fragrance is fun and for me that's all I want... I think there are many genuine people out there for sure. And I think links are personal choice, but I do think that social media in general needs to make rules very much clearer and actually enforce them... That would help create a level playing field for everyone. For me, I just see this as an outlet and relaxation. Earning money from making particular videos for brands or retailers with sales would take all of that fun away. Thanks for watching and I will check out what you have to say, I love finding new people! 🥰
About Navitus: I'm not interested in this brand at all, I don't follow the influencers who "created" (lol) perfumes with them and I don't watch videos of other people reviewing their fragrances... It's not a brand I respect, because it's not about perfume at all, it's all about business and making easy money. Everyone's raving about Navitus because they don't want to be cancelled in the perfume community.
And one word about PR - I also don't like when youtubers (and people on insta) don't mention that a perfume was gifted to them... There is an "influencer" in here who puts a disclaimer under her every video: "Any items marked with a (*) were received in PR but with no obligation to post" and there are no * at all when most of the stuff was sent to her for free! 🤣 sometimes she will mention in a video that she received something in PR but why does she forget to declare it in the description...? 🤔
Yes I can't comment on Navitus, I've not tried any of their fragrances, but I've been reliably informed by a trusted friend who I share some overlapping taste with that they aren't the greatest from what they have tried. I will try some though before making my own mind up. 😊
And yes 🤣 people seem to just forget PR don't they? 🤣 The rules are clear, they actually even say you should mention it throughout the video in case people don't watch all of it. And you should put it in the description box in a way so people don't have to hunt for the information. Disclosure is key! 🥰
I tried and own some of them and I enjoyed most of what I tried.
And that’s without even being a fan of that particular influencer.
I think people are just as quick to hate as they are to love.
@a.b.2826 my thoughts exactly! To me those youtubers are just celebrities...
any business is about money. It's not like those luxury brands put out perfume because they just love perfume
I am also not interested in NAVITUS or PARFUMS DE MARLY, because the whole concept is not cool or even sympathic. I call this Instagram brands and detest such things!
I like classic houses or REAL niche like Etat Libre d'Orange, Rogue Perfumery, Olympic Orchid or Histoires de Parfums 😉
Claire, one of the many things I appreciate about you is that you reply to every single comment on your channel.When I first watched the video on saturday, I was like oh, this will go viral! And then I thought to myself well, this time she won't be able to reply to them all! Well, it did go viral but yes, she is!😃
Love to see your channel growing. That's what I call organic growth! Greetings from Romania!❤
Thank you ❤️ gosh there have been sooo many comments 🤣 it's taken me hours but yes! And thank you for supporting me! Hugs back from the UK 🇬🇧
I actually don’t watch many big YTuber s , if I want to hear a true review on something I will go to a smaller channel that I know and respect
Wow 😮 it blows me away they wanted you to recommend a website you can’t even review from
Paid promotion is way to compromising for me
I’m so SO happy you did this video ,I can always rely on you Claire to bring us amazing content
Yes smaller channels are gold, I love seeing someone's channel succeed and grow, it's fab to support people.
It's weird isn't it?! I really thought they'd want someone actually in the US or the other place(s) they sell to, but seemingly they don't care 🤣
I was a bit scared about posting this actually but I am happy that I did ☺️ thank you for always supporting me from the beginning Frances! It means so much, you are so so kind. 🥰
@@interloper8029🤣 clearly...
I love the ones who give a first sniff off a sample like the rest of us and IF they light it they buy it. Many times they might not like a single review of a sample. It does tickle me when they don’t like something I love but the hate comments when they do is sad.
I don’t normally comment on videos like these, because I usually find them to be very negative. Although I don’t agree with every single thing, you said, I do agree with a lot of it and I appreciate you sharing your opinions in a balanced manner! It was quite interesting to listen to, thank you!
I didn't want to call anyone out but yeah after 4 years, I guess you see some things and have some experiences that aren't so cool. 🤣 I'm happy to have voiced these, but I was worried about posting this too! Thanks for watching 🥰
I can tell as a fact that if fragrantica didn’t exist 95%of perfume gurus here on UA-cam would not exist because what is mostly done is reading the reviews and use them as an script to record your own here in UA-cam
Yes I agree! To be honest, it's helpful in many ways and I do think it's helped me to learn what certain seemingly abstract things smell like, like vetiver, benzoin, frankincense, myrrh, also some of the exotic fruits. But yes, it's abused.
I cannot agree more. There are only couple of perfume reviewers that I trust with reviews. Fragrance Guy, Soki London and couple others.
I think you have to very carefully consider how people review fragrances and think about the brands they are ever negative about... think... are those brands ever likely to engage in paid promotion? E.g. Dior, Chanel...then think about the brands they never say anything against and ask the same question... Also ask yourself, do they ever talk about any notes outside of Fragrantica listings and do they use affiliate links?
Yeah... Soki deserves a rethink darling. Oop.
There is a fairly prominent frag UA-camr who did a video surveying his collection by saying a few things describing each one. He did not say one single bad thing about any. Then he bragged that he did not pay for a single one of them. They were all given to him free. Then.....he literally had the gall to say, in the video, "...if you are jealous, remember that you can do this too...". Brazen.
Also Ash at Gent Scents did a review video of a Dua fragrance (a clone house). He did not mention that he received a free bottle, but a link to Dua with a discount was written in the video's notes. And Dua is known to be shady. Try to submit a negative review of one of their fragrances on their website. It will never see the light of day. No notice to you. That's blatant.
And on another note, UA-camr Sebastian of The Perfume Guy, did a negative review on a Bond No. 9 fragrance years ago, and was given a cease and desist letter by the brand! How can that happen? He should be able to say what he wants. He has never done a Bond No. 9 review since.
Sheesh! That's pretty bad! I tried my first Bond No9 the other day in store (I'd never been anywhere here that carries them before...) it wasn't great 😬
I have heard similar things about Dua. And I think a lot of people on social media are completely unaware of how their entire collection being free makes them look completely passionless... But whatever 🤣 thanks for watching 🥰
Wow I didn't know that about Sebastian, I really like him, he knows his stuff and seems really genuine, the same thing happened to aaron terence hughes, he said that a brand didn't have real oud in it (which he was right) and they tried to sue him and he had to make an apology video, disgrace
@@ncpmadhead When Sebastian likes a release from a major designer, that's a rarity and it becomes a fragrance that I'll sometimes blind buy.
If these houses can silence a reviewer with a cease and desist letter, how can any of them feel safe in issuing a negative review?
@ncpmadhead Companies will disingenuously use the threat of a lawsuit to bully and dominate people they don't like or want to silence/cancel. It's corruption. They themselves should be punished for doing that but the victims usually don't have the resources to resist.
I’ve watched the video in its entirety and have a few thoughts. As someone who has been doing this for years, I don’t see the issue with having affiliate links especially with brands that one has always supported. This is a full time job for a lot of people and if they are doing the work, they should be compensated. That being said, I completely agree that people should disclose if their fragrances were gifted or if the video is sponsored (which are hard to come by these days). I receive PR and never feel I must be leave a positive review. I believe in highlighting strengths and weakness of any fragrance. I started off buying my own fragrance and have no problem doing so. Being an influencer is a choice and the people who follow choose to support their favorite content creator. You made some very valid points because sadly there are people who aren’t genuine with subscriber counts, likes and the lists goes on. I appreciate your transparency. Thanks for sharing.
Yes for sure it's an influencer's job if they don't have other employment and they do need an income, I see that, but I just think it feels like manipulation of the audience with some influencers as they conceal just where that income comes from to the general public. I've seen some influencers specifically ignore comments about fragrances that their affiliate store of choice doesn't stock... That's awful. And I'm yet to see anyone say how much money they get from each affiliate linked sale, that's information people need to frame any review being given.
I only output one video a week, so not much, but I still spend hours making videos, coming up with ideas, filming, researching and editing each week, just like a professional influencer. I do not expect to be paid for that time or through affiliate links. I just do it because I want to talk about fragrance. I have a job and this is my hobby. The outlay is mine and I only buy fragrances that interest me, nothing else... But could I come up with more content that I do? No and I wouldn't want to.
I have to say the fake sub counts and views etc with some people has really got to me in the past 😂 it's just so blatant sometimes, I'm sure you've seen it too! I try to let it wash over me now 😂 thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeHmmm honestly we both know if they start mentioning money that they are getting from these frags Affiliates people will feel as though they want to control that situation more and support less yes thats messed up but it's people.
Sadly I realise nothing will change from my tiny video 🤣 but I hope that at least this makes people see the choices they can make and provides them with information that they might not have had. 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeI do think your video will lead some people to be more discerning and I appreciate your take on the whole thing perfumes....you are a breath of fresh air in this congested and sometimes "stinky" world of scents...thank you 🙏
Thank you 🥰
I like the way you're using the word taste. Lately I've found it so off-putting when hearing perfume snobs using it in the Hyacinth Bucket way as if someone else's opinion is lesser for liking something different. We all smell things differently as well as experience a scent in a multitude of ways on skin❤
Commenting 5 minutes in already 😄 Will enjoy the video❤
Absolutely! One person may love something and another hate it, I have my own opinions and express them, but I hope not to offend anyone and if I think it's quirky but I hate it, I hope I do say that it's striking or different and that someone else may well love it, because it is only personal taste at the end of the day. 🥰
It's quite a long one 🙈
@@dr.claire.perfume Loved it!❤
Thank you 🥰
Black opium is lovely . The hair mist omg !! I miss that the most . I remember actually being very sad when it came out because my best friend at the time had really fallen in love with it, and I bought her the full line of products for her birthday, and I actually really quite liked it too, but I felt like it wasn’t my place now to wear ysl black opium after it became her thing (thanks to meee lol )😂 8 years later I may have found MY signature .
Don’t let anyone tell you a fragrance you like is not the one … it’s like food , music , hair styles, anything else … we all have our own preferences.
What an utterly boring world if we all wanted to smell the same
Yes ⬆️ exactly 💯 we are all different! That is the joy 😊
I did a similar thing actually, but with a different fragrance! Years later, I bought it for myself and didn't enjoy it any longer, it was a "blind buy" as I'd not smelt it for ~9 years. Tastes move on and I should have been more cautious I guess 🤷♀️
@@dr.claire.perfume ah tastes move on , the memories don’t always 💓
I have bought four perfumes based on influencers reviews, and they were an utter disappointment.
It's hard to really judge I think! Smaller channels often are better for more honest opinions, but yes, you also have to know about their tastes overall.
Excellent!! Truth teller. Keeping it 💯. Honesty and integrity trumps all!! Thank you!!
Thank you 🥰
I always appreciate your thoughtfulness, intention and how genuine you are. So, thank you for a peek behind the curtain!
Hi Sarah! Thank you ❤️ I'm happy to finally get all of this off my chest 🥰
I try not to subscribe to a fragrance youtuber who has a mecari and always decluttering
I think it's just a thing generally isn't it? I do declutter but twice a year and I don't advertise my declutters for sale here because I don't want people to know my address! 🤣 It sounds incredibly unsafe as an idea to me! Thanks for watching 🥰
Hmm. Well, I agree with most of what you said in this video I don’t believe any of this is different relative to how any business operates and shouldn’t be surprising and it really is up to the consumer to be discerning. I enjoy watching perfume videos as entertainment, but I do realize all the recommendations are based on different circumstances. I think people consuming this kind of content can find either a perfume UA-camr that’s entertaining and you just enjoy listening or watching, and or someone who shares your taste, and preferences and has proven to be good full recommendations for you and your preferences. This isn’t rocket scientist science it is business and consumer beware. I just don’t think it’s specific to this industry at all.
Probably not, but there should be more transparency I think. I think many people seem reviewers as independent and as sharing their genuine opinions... That's mostly not the case. I do think the regulations need to be updated to mark affiliate links as a type of paid promotion, that would make things clearer. Thanks for watching 🥰
I prefer to watch videos of you tubers who do it for the love of fragrance only. Smaller channels who do vintage, older fragrances with sizeable dents that prove they have used and loved that fragrance😊. I cant watch those influencers who have wall to wall fragrances, get gifted fragrances, review them and never wear them. They are just disingenuous sale people.
I absolutely agree! I get so much joy from seeing people talk about something they absolutely love, I don't care if it's 15 years old or unavailable. I just want to hear about it! 🥰
While I can appreciate what you are saying I think as adults we make our own choices to buy or pass. I think you have to be a smart consumer and do your research, test and grab samples if possible rather than going solely on what “the community” is saying. As we all know fragrance a SO SUBJECTIVE. I also thinks it’s wise as an “influencer” to be forthcoming about what they receive in PR. I don’t mind affiliate links at all. It saves me quite a bit of money “if” I decide to purchase. At the end of the day we luv what we luv and we hate what we hate as we are all individuals with different tastes. It’s easy to say “ oh she’s only saying good things about the brand or the fragrance because she’s making a commission or she is sent the fragrance for free”. Fragrance is for FUN and I for one am not here to make judgements about anyone I don’t know personally. Like I said take what you want from a review and move on.
Yes fragrance is subjective. For example a review using mass spec and AI to assess a fragrance would eliminate the feelings and imagery prompted by wearing fragrance and that really would show just how much fragrance reviewing is all about how it is perceived by the person wearing it.
I think affiliate marketing for me can be ok, I'm not saying it should be banned, particular businesses only exist because of it e.g. Kayali, but I just can't understand why it's not marked as paid promotion on videos, as those videos show fragrances with positive opinions and the links mean that someone makes money when that advertising is successful.
I agree that some links in general can save someone money, but the same deals are often but not always available to the consumer elsewhere. Also if those links hadn't ever existed, would fragrance be cheaper? Has use of affiliate links increased fragrancd pricing in the longer term? I have seen one creator promoting links to purchase from places that are far from the cheapest for particular fragrances (I have seen a fragrance 5x the price via a link, it was a discontinued celebrity perfume priced under £10 elsewhere at the time), again, caveat emptor I guess...
Fragrance is for sure so much fun, I love it, which is why I don't really understand why people who say this is simply their fun hobby and who have jobs already, need to monetarily benefit through affiliate marketing from sharing their positive opinions with others. Thanks for watching 🥰
Shout out to curly and her friends
🙊 🤣
Relatively new subscriber here. I love your perfume science videos- I find them very interesting and educational. One thing that I've noticed about some fragrance reviewers is the fact that some of them straigth up repeat reviews from fragrantica from other people when describing a fragrance. At the very least - I would expect a fragrance reviewer to make the effort to give their OWN impression of a fragrance on their content- Usually people who consume this kind of content are also on fragrantica. Is absurd to think it will go unnoticed
Thank you ❤️ they are some of my favourite videos!
Yes! I write reviews on Fragrantica so I'm for sure there 🤣 it's just something a lot of people use and love isn't it? Thanks for watching 🥰
When I'm buying a perfume if I can't find the perfume cheaper I'll find one of my favorite UA-camrs affiliate link so they can make some money. It costs a lot to put out this content and I don't mind helping.
It certainly costs a lot of time to make content 🤣 I do spend ages editing and planning videos! I'm sure the creators appreciate your purchases 😊 have a lovely weekend 🥰
You mention Ashton, but unfortunetly he's part of a problem. Had to unsibscribe his channel couldn't stand 15 useless videos a week being excuse to promote coupon codes. My youtube feed was spammed.
Yes, I understand. I am not subbed. I only mentioned him because he was the only person I had seen talk about being removed from PR lists and I thought it was interesting as to the reasons! Thanks for watching 🥰
Hi Claire, very thorough video as always. As a consumer of YT videos with no channel etc, I definitely see the videos I watch as being by two different types of YT-er, those who are more hobbyists e.g. they don't rely on YT for an income, and those who do, and it's more the latter I see as influencers as such (even though obviously anyone can influence, however it's more about the intention and motivation specifically). Most of the channels I watch fall into the former category (Noura from MyWay, Emy from EmysWorldOfFragrance, RoseAndJones, SmurfyGurly, SimplyAyesha) I believe and I think that's partly why I'm drawn to them - their videos feel more genuine, personal and about their own interests in perfume and what they like/fits into their lifestyle. I do watch other channels too, but the style of content is less varied and to me, less like a perfume lover and more like someone who wants to promote things to sell. I don't mind this, as I don't begrudge YB-ers making money at all (in particular I'm very happy to use an affiliate link if I was planning on buying an item any way, as this is a way I can specifically support channels) as long as they are declaring gifted items etc, but I will say it's definitely slightly different in the way I receive the information. I think both types of content have their place on YT, and I don't have a problem with it, but equally I think it's key that consumers are aware of all the points you make here so they can make informed decisions on any purchases they make etc.
Hi Emma ❤️ yes for sure, awareness is key! I made this after talking to a few people who didn't seem to understand the amount of money that people earn from links, it made me realise how no one sees the other side if they aren't involved in content creation. Without this knowledge of the money involved people are in the dark as to the competing interests and motivations for making content.
I agree with you, smaller UA-camrs in general make more diverse content because they are less dependent on the need to have big impactful videos that flog a lot of fragrances for affiliate income.
The biggest thing for me is the lack of transparency in so many areas across perfume social media. If someone is being paid to make a video or make a reel I want to know what I'm watching! Thanks for watching as always! I really love hearing from you 🥰
Hi Claire! So interesting topic. I appreciate you for explaining this to us mere fragrance videos watchers 😃 I think in the end it all goes down to personal ethics, and that varies tremendously, doesnt'it? 💙💙💙
Hi Carolina! Yes, it sure does 😂 I was actually really shocked when I realised how much money was involved in this, I think that can alter people's outlook. Thanks for watching 🥰
I disagree. The guys I follow haven’t stirred me wrong yet. They’re completely honest and always suggest never to blind buy. Sample first and the suggest the sites tht sale samples.
Well that's good. Who do you follow? I'm curious 🤔
Lawd have mercy. I've gotten so many questions about your video. I love this for you. This was a brilliant idea. It's true for A LOT of reviewers for sure.
Thank you! ❤️ I was worried about posting this because I had no idea what response this would get but I can't see me ever wanting to earn money in this way, so I just think this is me laying my cards on the table.
I felt so upset that that company wouldn't make a charitable donation instead of paying me... It made me realise that I don't want to be associated with such companies anyway. Thanks for watching 🥰
A UA-camr saying not to trust UA-camrs. The irony. I agree. If someone is trying to manipulate your opinion by influencing you with public validation run for the hills. Always verify things for yourself.
Yes, I think you can see for yourself from my videos that I don't have an agenda. I know it's unusual 🤣 but I have a full time job... This is a hobby and will stay that way. My hard drive broke on Friday so I can't make videos for a while anyway. 🤣 Thanks for watching 🥰
A couple of weeks ago I commented on a major UA-camr video sharing my bad experience (niche expensive giving anosmia to me in 30 minutes, bad performance - and I said it in a nice way) with a fragrance he was endorsing. My comment got deleted in no time. I guess he was promoting the brand/fragrance but it was not disclosed as far as I recall.
youtube deletes even innocent comments
That's interesting 🧐 YT does delete stuff randomly as well but it does seem a coincidence! 🥰
I've seen these issues.
Re point 3 I've seen a guy review a middle eastern fragrance based on the notes of a completely different scent profile where the brand had copy pasted an earlier fragrance and forgot to change the blurb before advertising. Lots of third party retailers then copied the same wrong information.
They hate being called out for it, the guy just doubled down that I was arguing about what HIS nose smells. Nope, i was just making it clear for the people who hang on his every word that it's odd that he smells the notes for a rose oud fragrance in a white floral.
Yes, the first lady had been called out a lot and she took it for a bit and then just deleted all the comments. It was towards the end of the video, so probably a lot of people wouldn't get that far.
The second lady was quite rude to me when I politely told her she had Divine Decadence not Decadence. I just didn't reply, I wasn't going to argue. You're right, people don't like being called out.
Fragrantica is so often wrong, I remember sniffing Orphéon the first time and thinking mmm, I love the rose, and then I checked Fragrantica and it doesn't list rose 🤣 I'm sure it's there!
Thanks for watching 🥰
I have 40+ frags in my collection, so consider myself an amateur enthusiast. I stopped watching the frag channels a while ago. They’re fun and can offer some valid insights, but 90% of the channel’s become production lines for pushing the same products.
Yes, the best videos are the ones that aren't a sales pitch. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume 100% 👍🏻
This was really eye opening.
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy that you enjoyed it 🥰
This channel resonates with me as scientist and perfume enthusiast. Thank you so much.
Yes!!! I remember! Fellow scientist 🥼 I think I just have the same outlook as when I publish something. I would always act ethically in my day job working for public benefit in a university, so why not here too? 😊 Thanks for watching 🥰
An excellent video. It’s disheartening when I start to see fragrance reviewers begin to trade their honesty and integrity for cash.
Thank you ❤️ You can watch it in real time sometimes as channels grow. You see all the unfiltered opinions disappear and a bias towards certain brands develop. Thanks for watching 🥰
Its on everything, not just perfumes, all of social media is one big add scheme.
@@amateur_football9751 yep, you're right 👍
Wow!! Each video of yours I click on is better than the last. What a great channel! 🤩
🙈 thank you! 🥰
I don’t blindly follow influencers, nor do I click on their affiliate links, even though they have every right to make a living through UA-cam. I simply prefer to do my own research before committing to a fragrance; however, most perfume UA-camrs provide excellent information, such as *truly affordable* fragrances- unlike your idea of affordability costing over £100.
Well that sounds good! And of course they have a right to make a living if that is their chosen profession but what I am saying in this video is that affiliate marketing really needs to be better flagged on social media. For example, is affiliate marketing really something that is actually paid promotion as the person benefits monetarily if someone buys the fragrance through the link? Should video with links be marked as paid promotion? I think this is a debate to be had.
I've actually never paid over £45 including delivery for any fragrance as I buy secondhand, so to me, everything I discuss and have a bottle of is very affordable. My Dior Privée fragrances were all £35-45 each for example. Affordable doesn't just have to be RRP, secondhand is a really good option. Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfumeplease tell me *exactly where* you find Dior Privée fragrances for £45 !!!
eBay, I got a partial 250ml bottle, a really I have three right now. I have a video discussing tips and tricks for buying secondhand and I have detailed those buys there. I hope that helps ☺️
UA-cam suggested your channel to me a few days ago and I must say I quite like it! Amazing video, btw! 👏👏👏
Thank you! ❤️ I'm happy that you are enjoying it 🥰
Majority of the fragrance influencers feel very fake. As a fragrance enjoyer and collector, I watch some of the fragrance youtubers to discover what's new. If I find any of the perfumes they talk about interest me, I will go and try it in my local beauty shops to test and sample. Whether I end up buying a particular fragrance or not completely depends on my taste. Unfortunately a lot of young people who are addicted to social media blindly trusts their favorite influencers' recommendations.
You are right that some groups seem to be more receptive to consumeristic video messaging than others. I think it can take a while for some viewers to separate an entertaining presentation and how someone's taste relates to the watcher. I agree, if a product is interesting to you, watch with a pinch of salt and go try it. Making your own mind up informed by sampling is the way to avoid disappointment. Thanks for watching 🥰
So true. More than a few times I've gotten the feeling, many of these influencers are little more than actors repeating what they've already read or seen on videos.
You do start to notice repeats after a while with some topics. It can be hard for newbies to spot it though! It took me a while! 🥰
I feel like not every influencer are gifted the fragrances (Some are) but rather they just have the means to buy it.
I see nothing wrong with affiliate links either and a lot of UA-camrs do make it clear that they can earn commission from the affiliate links at the bottom of their description.
Usually you'll know if they are getting paid to hype up a fragrance for example Sboy by Draco I saw that everywhere
For sure, not every influencer are being gifted fragrances. It will depend on their size and geographic location (there is clearly bias towards people making videos in countries with a larger audience or to people with audiences in countries that the brand is sold in, hence the US and UK ones tending to get more opportunities, making this an unequal platform) and whether they choose to accept the items from the brands.
I guess what I'd ask in relation to links is: Do you think affiliate links should be something that you have to scroll to the end of the description box to find the disclaimer for? Should it instead be above the links so everyone sees it? If the video is using links, do you think that their promotion of the fragrance in the video is not being monetarily compensated through payments via the links? If so should the video itself be marked as paid promotion? Is the video effectively an advert? Does it show you the product and say how good it is? Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume For me it doesn't matter where they add the disclaimer as long as they have it on there. The viewer will be checking out the links in the description and will most likely come across the disclaimer anyway.
The links obviously are making them money but I see nothing wrong with it because you are supporting a content creator that puts many hours into their videos and if the viewer is going to purchase the product anyway then why not? it's a win-win. The links they use, help the viewer save money on a fragrance while the youtuber gets paid too. So when a fragrance reviewer talks about their choices of fragrances I don't consider it paid promotion or advertising they just love sharing their experience with their fragrances while giving you the best deal on it.
You won't really know if a product is good or not until you try that product for yourself which is why you should always sample first before buying because your experience and taste can differ from what the review says.
This was really well informed video too with many valid points so keep it up
😊
I love that you pointed this out!! 💯
I guess the affiliate marketing might do better to link samples perhaps?
That would make things easier and some do actually provide links for decant sites. What I will say is because they have a worldwide audience I would be happy if they added links to discounters for their European viewers. In the UK we have many good discounter websites too
I find it so irresponsible when influencers keep pushing $500 fragrances in the current financial climate. This is $660 Australian & who in their right mind spends that much on a fragrance. They obviously get them free as they have shelves full. I try the clone version 1st & i think the most i have spent is $250. I never click on links as I shop for best price.
I agree, no one has this kind of money... The most I've ever paid for a fragrance has been £45 (!), because I buy samples or secondhand. 🤷♀️ I don't have the money to spend a lot on fragrance and I have a collection big enough to last a lifetime, so I only really sample most of the time. Thanks for watching 🥰
I refuse to ever spend over $200. My big splurge is Blanche Bete since I really love it. Everything else I try to get for under $150 and have definitely been deep diving into the Middle Eastern Fragrances. I just want a handful of signatures scents to rotate and maybe smell something new once in awhile.
Number 9 is the reason why I stopped doing videos in English and never show my collection because most people is afraid to talk about perfumes because they don’t have a huge shelf full of bottles I did that mistake myself purchasing to feel I belong
Yes! I think there is this typical YT set up of you must have a huge shelf with a load of fragrances on it... There are other ways to make videos and to discuss fragrance for sure. 😊 Thanks for watching 🥰
Subscribed right after ur intro. Never seen u before but ur channel sounds FASCINATING and I’m excited to watch more of ur videos
Thank you ❤️ sadly my laptop broke last week so there might be a delay for new content but I would recommend my clone fragrance video if you enjoyed this. Thanks for watching 🥰
Hey Claire - well you got this up which I hope means good news for your IT issues? 🙏 Excellent video, it takes *courage* to shed light on all of these issues. So much to unpack….I agree that negative reviews are helpful and needed, but as you adeptly pointed out *diplomacy* is key, just as it is in every facet of our lives. I don’t like hearing content creators just trash fragrances 🤬. PR is difficult. Even when they mention it, I have noticed even creators I like starting to be swayed by overpriced brands and hype things that don’t deserve it. We’re all simply not going to blind buy $200+ bottles several times a month. Just no. Also, I hate when everyone seems to receive the same PR at the same time. We’ve all seen it. Everybody seems to be reviewing the same stuff. It’s disappointing 🤬 We all know who those brands are. YTers need to realize we’re not stupid and we notice when everyone is getting the same PR, and perhaps be more transparent about that. Agree on Affiliate links, I rarely use them. Yes - disenchanted with all the “sale” videos lately; creators creating specific content to get subscribers to shop a sale. All they do is run thru bottles they have repeatedly reviewed to get us to spend money 💵💵💵 and you are right: they only talk about narrow brands. Ha ha I bet I can guess who that online retailer collaboration was! 🤔 Ethics are such a slippery slope. My dad told me a long time ago: our ability to rationalize our dubious (or outright bad) behavior is what separates us from the monkeys 🐒😟. Navitus/Vivamor are brands I will never patronize - and the drama surrounding those releases and YTers is distasteful IMO. Lastly YES overconsumption is making me weary 😵💫 I mostly buy samples decants or partials.
Omg Jill this was immense luck! I uploaded this video literally seconds before my hard drive failed 🤣 this was almost lost! Clearly some higher being wanted this shown 😉 I just bought a new laptop £1150 🤦♀️
Yes, I've been told that I can sound angry even when I'm not so I think me talking about things I don't love is a really difficult thing for me to moderate. 🤣
I agree with PR, I was offered Sirene, and I was too late replying cos the email went to my junk, but I was kinda glad in the end because there have been so many videos 🤣
The sale videos irk me and yes, I can't imagine me doing that and that was also part of the reason I was happy to turn a certain retailer down 😉
Your dad is right, the standard we walk past is the standard we accept, I'm not happy with the state of perfume tube so I felt compelled to lay my feelings out. I was a bit worried about the reaction to this but so far, I think people see what I see! And same with the amount of fragrance I buy, it's been a lot of sample sets so far this year 😊
Thanks for watching, it's always lovely to hear from you, you always have insightful comments.
What were the dramas? I missed something interesting I think 😂
Anything reviewed on UA-cam is SUSPECT at best. Didn't use to be that way... back in my day before EVERYTHING and EVERYONE on UA-cam was monetized.
Well is ad revenue monetisation an issue? Do you mind adverts in videos? UA-cam puts adverts in for people who aren't monetised anyway so you probably won't notice the difference between channels who warn nothing Vs those with ad revenue. I think the bigger thing to discuss is affiliate links, because those indirectly put up the price of everything up for all consumers. Thanks for watching 🥰
This was a lot of common sense advice, but it doesn't mean it's not good for the people who need to hear it.
That being said, there are people that I watch because I trust their nose. We have similar tastes, so I like the vast majority of their wrecks. If I hate something, they tend to not be super impressed. So I watch their channels as a short cut to SAMPLE new fragrances. There are other people I watch simply because I enjoy their videos, but I know 95% of the things they recommend will not be good for my nose.
I said all of that to say, it's all entertainment. No one's word should be taken as the Gospel, unless they are literally reading from the Bible ...and even then take out your Bible and read the verse before it and after it for context. Don't blindly trust ppl on the internet...or if u do know it is what it is.
Yes absolutely, you don't know anyone's motivations for sure or even sometimes whether what they are saying is valid. Thanks for watching 🥰
Wow..!this was totally different.loved it.telling it as it is🤔👍.. thank you.iv subscribed
Thank you ❤️ I appreciate that! 🥰
The title of this video caught my eye and I decided to watch a bit to see what you were like. I didn't know if you would just rant or waffle or be informative, but I wasn't prepared for such an intelligent, coherent, and educational piece. I'm a fan of Ash Kirkland, so some of what you said didn't surprise me but I was shocked by the amounts that people get from affiliate links. You've got a new subscriber.
Thank you ❤️ I think you will struggle to find other fragrance YTbers my size that don't use affiliate links so no one is going tell you how much they get from them! It's not in their interests is it?
if you liked this video, you might enjoy my discussion of clone fragrances and the legalities and moral issues surrounding them ua-cam.com/video/hj-dULOUonU/v-deo.html
Thanks for watching 🥰
Hi Claire! I agree about so many of the points you made in the video. I love the term "ethical minefield." I used to watch many reviewers who started their channels by reviewing what they truly loved. However, they completely lost their integrity and credibility as their channels grew and sponsorships started rolling in. They began featuring five out of ten fragrances per video from brands they had discount codes for. This is where I draw the line. Would they choose the same fragrances if they weren’t getting paid? I don’t think so. Personally, I’m not against discount codes or affiliate links as long as they’re accompanied by full disclosure, both stated and written. As a small channel, I haven’t received any PR gifts yet, but if I ever do, I’ll make sure to be 100% transparent about it.
Yes I agree, if it doesn't fit with what you are interested in or if it entirely biases your channel in one direction or towards one brand then that's a big no for me too. People talk best about what interests them and people make more interesting videos when they are free from monetary benefit. I think you are on the right track, you are building a loyal following and have unique content. That's what people want. 🥰
Clare you are way more observant than me 🤔I like to hear when people declutter perfumes and why they do and not just let them go and we hear nothing about them again 🤷♀️
So much fake reviews out there and I realize I’m not going to go anywhere with morals and integrity LOL I’m ok with that ( people who pay for subscribers and views are indeed hollow inside )
I will continue to have fun LOL
HUGS ❤
Yes me too! I love to hear why something doesn't work for someone as much as why someone loves something, it's fascinating!
And yes, there are incredibly quick ways to become monetised or to get big on Instagram but ultimately what keeps me warm and fuzzy inside is the interaction with subscribers, I love hearing what people think 😊 and it's fun, you are right 🥰 many many hugs! 🥰
It’s the perceived pressure talking about new fragrances! People respond more to NEW NEW NEW! Thats a fact!
It's true, if your aim is for subs and money then new is the way to get there. I don't mind growing slowly and only getting Adrevenue, I feel I make more interesting videos when I'm not concentrating on potential views and subs. And sometimes, like with this video, it can really take you by surprise how popular something can be.
Tall tale signs they're illegitimate are having 6 or more of a brand and they love them all with every brand they own, there are no unique opinions, they just read the fragrantica, they are talking while pretending to smell a scent strip playing it like a cello bow under their nose while talking, they look like they have a big production setup is a good indicator
Cello bow 🤣 that's hilarious but I know exactly what you mean! Thanks for watching 🥰
This is what makes you an invaluable resource. Thanks Claire Smith. 😅
Thank you 🥰
Thank you for your honesty. There are certain notes I cannot abide, like blackberry,
strong jasmine, black currant, and gourmands in general. I have bought fragrances based
on the recommendations of certain influencers and absolutely hated. After looking on line
for all the notes, they had the very ones I could not stand. I now order samples, but read
all about them first. I'm still looking for that signature scent that will make my heart sing.
That's really interesting, I think reviewer's definitely have biases towards what they enjoy in fragrance and that can mean they fail to mention something that's prominent but that they don't feel positively or negatively towards. It can be difficult to gauge their enthusiasm levels too sometimes. Some people are ejist naturally more bouncy and enthusiastic sounding than others. Sampling and research is definitely the way to a more successful perfume wardrobe ☺️ thanks for watching 🥰
8:01 the highest level of collaboration would probably be... not disclosing that you are related to the owners of the niche house you are always shilling lol....
That's hilarious 🤣 I wonder who that is 🤣
When I first got into Fragrance many years ago I was influenced by Katie Puckrik and Luca Turin. When I got back into fragrance 3 years ago I didn’t realize how much had changed at first. Took me a while to get my bearings in this new climate… a learning curve for sure.
Kate Puckrik was absolutely fab! ❤️ I love it when I stumble across one of her videos simply by accident! Her reviews are super fun! Yes, for sure, the whole arena has changed and it's pivoted towards what earns money and that doesn't make for distinctive or interesting content at all. 🤷♀️
I’m shocked by English UA-cam issues. Tons of presents an PR 😱 l’m Ukrainian UA-cam blogger in the Ukrainian language and none of global brаnds knows about me or is interested in collaborating. And all my opinions are honest. Get the recipe how to get rid of PR issues😉
There is massive bias with PR, this is another issue. The focus is only on the larger markets. You are right. Thanks for watching 🥰
Interesting and for those who don’t understand that YouTubing is a business, hopefully they will consider the truth of the money trail
Yes I think a lot of people just don't think about it in that way but people need to see the sheer amounts of money involved in all of this! 🥰
Brilliant vid Claire! Great point about the overpricing. Brands do show their cards once in a while if we're paying attention. Valuable info!
Thank you! ❤️ Well we all know fragrance is incredibly overpriced for larger brands so there's always going to be wiggle room, but being able to offer blanket 30%+ discounts begs questions. Have a fab weekend 🥰
Good Afternoon lovely Claire ❤️ so many interesting valid points discussed, I’ve always just used my instinct and I know what I love and what I look for when it comes down to fragrances , I can’t be influenced because I grew up in a city where “things” were being sold in every corner 🤣😉 I think I learned from an early age who’s trying to pull me in for their benefit and how to stay true and be my own person, no one can sell me something, if I buy it’s because I genuinely want to, this video is extremely helpful to so many, I have seen such a shift in the fragrance community and I sometimes get annoyed but my common sense kicks in and I understand people want to make money and it’s up to us individually to choose wisely or maybe do as I do support those I believe in or watch to educate myself in fragrance and continue my journey of being a fragrance collector ❤️ ( I’ve always trusted your positive vibes!)
Hi Sunny! Yes! Being selective is the way to go I think. 😊 We know from watching for a long time who we want to support and who we maybe don't watch after more experience. The bottom line is right, that we are responsible for the decisions that we make and what we choose to buy. I think I am similar to you, it's pretty hard to sell me something now... I've been burnt so many times 🤣 thanks for watching and have a lovely Sunday 🥰
I’ve noticed even outside of the fragrance community that affiliate links are getting completely out of hand. With creators throwing together an image of things they’ve been loving followed by a bunch of affiliate links. Then they are doing this weekly and I find it very pushy but I guess it just another avenue for them to make money. I suppose it works for them but I don’t care for it.
Absolutely! If things look purposeful it's not content, it's advertising. Thanks for watching 🥰
Hi Claire! I’m having big trust issues with youtubers right now. I always did but it got worst recently when I bought many Middle Eastern perfumes people rave about… I was very underwhelmed and it made me question many youtubers that talk about them like the biggest invention on earth… taste is a reality but when I don’t even get half the notes they talk about, I get suspicious! 😅😂 Amazing informative video! 🙌🏻🙌🏻
@@ingridfitz5677 Good for you! 🙂 I made a few mistakes but I’m staying away now!
Hi Julie, thank you ❤️ Yes me too! I got so burnt with Lattafa and Afnan that I gave up for a bit. Those fragrances are cheap but they collectively add up and resale can be pointless or just a pain. Thanks for watching 🥰
This is sooo true. I finally stopped blind buying bc of raving reviews - I've done that so many times and have ended up with many bottles that wasn't anywhere near what I expected (even after checking fragrantica and other UA-cam reviews). Now, I know which notes I like, sort of which UA-camrs I trust, started buying more samples, and hopefully will not make the mistakes I have over the last two years. Thank you for your integrity 😊
Thank you ❤️ Absolutely! Sampling is the way to go for a collection that you love. Thanks for watching 🥰
And yet, Gents Scents has a video called "50 MUST OWN Fragrances For Beginners To Build An AMAZING Collection" all with affiliate links. This isn't perfume appreciation, it's consumerism.
Yes! 😂 I solely linked his video as an exemplar of the brand-creator relationship breakdown. I know he does a lot of what I'm calling out here sadly. That is unfortunately most large, if not just most overall, YTs. It's sadly seen as a money maker even by people claiming this is a "hobby". Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume People should be warned about the perfume rabbit hole. I speak from experience. I have about 150 bottles of perfume which I regret today. I was in the second wave of the WordPress-based perfume blogosphere (my first post was June 1, 2010). I gave perfume history and classification talks in libraries and universities back in the day. The quality of perfume criticism today is dismal (I have only seen one of your videos and so present company excepted). The worst of them all was Jeremy fragrance. Gents scents is a close second and The Perfume Guy. These people have no sense of perfume history or anything outside of the perfume world. All men's perfumes are compared to Aventus or Sauvage. They list notes like recipe ingredients... no knowledge of the science behind perfume. Oh well... time marches on.
Well look what is being released... Both in designer and main brand niche... If you love iso E super and ambroxan, you're sorted 😂
I think I'd agree with you actually, when I first started, I was buying loads and without much thought. I still make loads of mistakes but I really don't want my collection to grow from where it's at, which is about 115 bottles. I would prefer it shrank...
This video should be YT fragrance 101 😂 thank you Claire for putting it out there❤
Thank you! 🥰
It took me MONTHS to realize that Fragrantica very often DELETES negative reviews.. which had the unfortunate effect of me naively buying some very trumped up scents only to be disappointed and somewhat confused as to why I wasn’t experiencing the same thing..I really detest that feature and find it hard to then trust ratings & reviews.
I genuinely love the platform BUT have seen many people bullied or simply downvoted for having a negative opinion of their favorite fragrance. It was (and is) why I’m always very careful how I word any reviews I write; and even so I’ve had mine “disappeared” even though it was not offensive other than not giving a glowing review.
I’ve also, since starting my fragrance journey, become aware of the absolute fragrance “snobs” that will default to hatred of any and all “designer” or mainstream fragrances that are absolutely beautiful & popular for a reason!
I absolutely applaud your honesty and it definitely pulls back the veil a bit so we, the consumer, can have some clarity.
You are right! Fragrantica is quite a brutal place sometimes, I think I'd also use the word bullying. I think it's awful that people can't express negative opinions politely without those opinions being downvoted and removed.
I agree, there is snobbiness around fragrance. When I first started, I had a relatively cheap collection, I still do, I don't really buy many pricey ones as I can't afford them, and I don't want 1000s sitting on my dresser, going off. But I felt really so alienated by the platform and some of the creators here at the beginning.
Thanks for watching, I really was just reaching a point where I couldn't not make this video. The charity donation thing was about the last straw.
Have a fab Friday 😊
@@dr.claire.perfume thanks so much for taking the time to respond! And you summed it up perfectly. Basically my experience as well, unfortunately. Thanks again!
No problem! 🥰