13 Reasons You Can't Trust Perfume Influencers Fragrance YouTubers Affiliate Links Spilling The Tea
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- Опубликовано: 11 июл 2024
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🌟 About this video
About a year ago, I made a video about what I'd tell myself if I were starting my perfume collection from scratch; basically what I've learnt about perfume, perfume social media and even the idea of perfume addiction. It seemed to resonate with viewers, so if you've not seen it: • Top 10 Starting My Per...
This video is more about me seeing fragrance RUclips from the other side. I've now had more contact with perfume brands and stores and this video is me spilling the tea on that and how perfume social media can become less about love and more about money and free bottles of perfume. The amount of money people can earn from this is truly astonishing. I'm making this video because I'm just a scientist who just enjoys making perfume content for fun, not for money, and I can't see that changing. This video has some serious messages but I try not to call anyone out directly.
I love the community here, but it worries me how most subscribers aren't aware of the huge amounts of money some perfume content creators earn and the inherent bias that inevitably brings.
If you like this video, you might like this interview with @scentedsnowdrops part one is here: • The Secrets Behind @dr...
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🌟 Timestamps and perfumes mentioned
0:00 Intro: reasons you should take perfume social media with a pinch of salt
1:28 Different tastes
2:47 Anyone, anywhere...
4:02 Did you smell it?
6:17 Positive for the people
7:50 Collabs daarling!
11:55 Cash for clicks
16:44 Stores that just don't care
20:24 So gifted!
25:10 More, more, more
27:47 Hits differently?
29:38 Changing opinions
31:10 Influencer fragrances are wow
34:44 Just what's real?
#perfume #fragrance #perfumes #fragrances #perfumecollection #perfumereview #perfumeaddiction #perfumeaddict #socialmedia #longlastingperfumes #longlastingfragrances #pr #fragrancereview #perfumereviews #fragrancereviews #womensperfume #womensfragrance #affordablefragrances #affordableperfumes #unisexfragrances #mensfragrance #fragrance #perfumehaul #branddeals #influencermarketing #influencerfragrances #brandcollaboration #howmuch #spillingthetea #spillingtea #youtubesecrets #affiliatemarketing 
Хобби
We’ve become obsessed with skipping ads/commercials just to watch an ad/commercial.
⬆️ exactly 💯 thanks for watching 🥰
Well said.
RUclips 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.
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
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 🥰
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 🥰
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. 🥰
You hit the nail on the head. I go to RUclipsrs 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 🥰
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 👏
Watching this video made me feel as if I was reading an academic paper in which perfume influencing on RUclips 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 🥰
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!
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
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!
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 RUclips 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 RUclipsr since 2006 so my perspective may be different.😂
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 🥰
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.
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 ❤️
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 🥰
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 RUclips, 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 RUclips 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...”
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 🥰
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 🥰
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 RUclipsrs 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.
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 🥰
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 🥰
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 RUclips. 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...
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.
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! 🥰
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! 🥰
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 🥰
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 🤣
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 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 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. 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume Maybe the best person to review the service is someone that's never used it...
@@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.
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! 🥰
There is a fairly prominent frag RUclipsr 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, RUclipsr 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.
You are one of my absolute favorite perfume you tubers btw !! I love that you present science-y stuff in in great detail but also make it very approachable and understandable. I hate when others want to reference a scientific point but just basically dilute it to practically meaningless or just have a yada yada moment
Thank you ❤️
Haha 😂 this is what people do when they haven't read enough and don't understand what they are saying or simply can't be bothered to explain a concept. It's very annoying! I see it in students a lot! They don't do it for long normally though, they learn! 🥰
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! 🥰
Take it from me. Navitus perfumes are no good. They’re quick money for the brand. They focus on influencer marketing rather than the quality. Their stuff smells synthetic. Think about it, why wouldn’t they invest in quality? It’s all marketing. You’re paying for a “celebrity” product. The loyal subscriber-ships of these influencers have been done dirty!
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.
@@mandyh86 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
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 RUclips reviews). Now, I know which notes I like, sort of which RUclipsrs 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 🥰
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. 🧐
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 🥰
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 🥰
Hi Claire! I run a relatively small indie fragrance brand and I appreciate your honesty. I price things based on the fact that I make these by hand.
I think that as a small influencer myself, people not being honest about the product or fragrance is getting worse and worse.
Also,some influencers want $500-$2k to review one product. As a smaller business,I just don’t have it….and I can’t guarantee that said influencer will send me sales. It’s a toss up.
Thank you for your honesty.
Interesting, thank you for your contribution.
That's horrendous! I've seen people try to shill indie brands on insta and it's horrid. Brands need exposure, but you should let them approach you or just buy a sample yourself if you want to try something...
I've realised how much I appreciate indie over the last year, that's where the invention is. If you want to see someone passionate about indie, please check out @ScentedSnowdrops he's on insta too and is fab. If you want to send him a sample, he will review it fairly. Thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you Claire! I appreciate the effort in all your videos and the time spent to gather this information to share with us. Well done! 🤝 ❤
Thank you ❤️ I do try to gather facts so people can make up their own minds ☺️
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 🥰
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 🥰
Yet another informative, fascinating video. You have the most unique perspective on YT. I hope you never change the style of your videos. Thanks, Claire for what you do! ❤
Thank you ❤️ I really appreciate that. 🥰
You are one of the most level-headed and down-to-earth RUclipsr. This is why I love watching your videos! Thank you for videos like this! ❤❤❤
Thank you! That's so lovely to read ❤️ thank you so much for all of your support, I appreciate it 🥰
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 ruclips.net/video/hj-dULOUonU/видео.html
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 🥰
Your honest and direct conversation on this topic shows how much you respect your audience! 👏 I think some of the audience figured out the RUclipsrs’ game so what you’re talking about is not a huge surprise but it’s still so refreshing to have this level of honesty.
Thank you ❤️ I'm really shocked by the amount of money people are paid by brands and I think people need to know. It's not pennies, it loads and that can dictate motivation for the content produced... I know I could just play the game here but that's not me, I don't want to, so I thought I'd just get it all off my chest in a video 😂 thanks for watching 🥰
great video & approach, Claire! it's good to put things into perspective, to understand more of what goes behind the scenes. Honestly I am tired of seeing so many creators losing their sense of self, being inauthentic and becoming yet another sales person, I genuinely feel like I'm always being sold something. Lately I've been heavily curating who I follow and why I follow them. I appreciate and enjoy your content so much, you are a breath of fresh air! ❤
Thank you ❤️ yes, I agree, I have stopped following a lot of people because I've felt the same way. All I want to see is some chat about their genuine experiences or tell me something interesting, without an affiliate links in sight, it's not a lot to ask... Thanks for watching 🥰
This has been an eye opener. I''m so confused about who is genuine and who isn't. Who do you consider genuine? Need to rethink my subscriptions clearly.
I am not naming names, I don't want a witch hunt. It's so difficult, because there is so much wrong with how fragrance is talked about on YT but there are some absolute gems to find too, people who clearly love and feel passionately about fragrance and who aren't in it for the £££.
Hi Claire!
I really love your channel. It's always so informative. I've been watching fragrance videos since 2020 and I can understand a lot of the things you are talking about.
I admire your honesty. Keep it up!
Thank you! ❤️ I think 2020 got a lot of people watching perfume YT... And yes, if you've been watching for that long, you know 😉 Thanks for watching 🥰
Hi Dr. Claire. I’ve missed watching but work has been a bear so I’ve had to scale back a little. Thank you continuing to be such a joy to watch. This same thing happened in other RUclips communities and it’s sad to see it occurring again. But their are still and handful that haven’t sold their souls that I watch, you included, and that helps. I hope people will listen and take heed. Hope to see you again soon.
Hello Faith! ❤️ Thank you! Yes, I know I'm picking a battle I will lose 😂 but this all has annoyed me all so much that I felt I had to make a video to show people how this works because I'm not sure everyone is aware, most especially newer viewers of fragrance content. I agree with you, I've seen this in the makeup community too, it's all a bit sad.
My laptop broke last Friday (I lost all my video plans, editor, images and completed videos 🤦♀️) so no video this week but maybe the next. Thank you so much for supporting me for so long, I really appreciate it. Have a fab week, I hope work improves. 🥰
It’s good to see people with integrity. What a rare gem you are. This is the first video I have seen of yours but will certainly watch more.
Thank you ❤️ I hope you find something worthwhile 🥰
Thank you so much Claire for helping us to select what kind of video we should look at ! I'm so sad and angry when I see RUclipsrs telling us : "that's the BEST fragrance of all time" and declutter it the week after ! But some are so magnetic witches they speak so well and are so convincing that they could be drastic lawyers. Love your videos and analysis, please go on ! Best regards from Belgium.
Hi Françoise! Thank you! ❤️ Yes, it seems whatever pays well or is new is pushed sometimes. It's hard for people new to YT to see through it. I will try to continue but I lost my laptop hard drive yesterday along with my current video plans. I have bought a new one today but there may be a delay in new videos whilst I acquire new editing software and set everything up again. Thanks for watching 🥰
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 🥰
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 RUclipsrs 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 🥰
This is such a great video with very valid points. I love that you asked the brand to donate to charity, it’s sad that they didn’t take you up on it. In some cases it seems like brands don’t have faith in their fragrances. I’m so glad you done this video ❤️
Thanks Chantel ❤️ I was actually really worried about the reaction that this was going to get... But honestly that company disappointed me so much in their approach that I have decided that I just want to lay my cards on the table and show just how ridiculous some of this is... Thanks for watching 🥰
Another great video Claire! 💕Every point you made is perfectly spot on and exactly why I can’t watch most fragrance RUclipsrs.
I think another reason most of them seem to change their minds so frequently about perfumes is most of them are still fairly new to the hobby. Many started their channels during (or after) covid and they were just getting into exploring perfume around the same time. Most of them didn’t have any fragrance knowledge or experience before starting their channels so they are still figuring out what they like.
That’s another reason I can’t take most of them seriously.
Thank you ❤️
Well I started my channel in 2020 and I really hadn't smelt a lot of fragrances in the grand scheme of things. I really do think I spent 2021 sorting out my taste and teaching myself how to try fragrance thoroughly. I do worry that some people literally try something once and review it 🤦♀️
I do think though that people don't always watch me for reviews. Of course, I do them, because I enjoy talking about my experiences and likes and dislikes, but I think I really am better at talking about the issues around fragrance, the history or the societal aspects, but because I work and don't have lots of time, I can't always do those videos because they take a crazy amount of planning and editing. 😂 I lost my laptop this weekend, the hard drive broke, so I lost everything and I doubt there will be a video for a few weeks... Just warning you! Thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume You are completely different from the other fragrance RUclipsrs in every way. It is refreshing watching you enjoy the hobby, without constantly doing massive hauls & massive declutters, raving about the same perfumes that everybody received in PR (ad nauseam), and/or the same brands that offer the highest kickbacks. Your honesty, approach & style is very relatable.
I’m sorry you lost everything on your hard-drive. That is the worst feeling! Hopefully it can be recovered. Not sure if you have “Best Buy” in the UK, but anyplace like that usually has a department that can help recover lost files. If you purchase an external hard drive from them, they will usually recover & transfer everything from your crashed computer for free. Might be worth a shot!
Thank you ❤️ someone at work offer to remove the disk and try to get the data for me but couldn't read it. I now have the hard drive itself so I can take it and try somewhere. It's certainly worth a shot and I need an external harddrive any way. Thanks for your kind advice. 🥰
theres a couple fragrance reviewers on here i watch just to see how low they are gonna stoop but there are reviewers like you who i genuinely like listening to. ♡ thanks for the transparency
Thank you ❤️ that's so lovely! 🥰
We all know who you’re referring to.
@@mandyh86 ;)
I thoroughly enjoyed this ❤ even as a smaller RUclipsr myself, I am also a consumer who falls prey still to those same influences. You touched on a lot of good points. I try to always be maintain transparency with my viewers for this very reason. You will definitely find your more honest and likely most relatable RUclipsrs are the ones under a certain number of subscribers.. unfortunately. Even if they start out genuine. Money can make ppl do and say things they may have never imagined they would. It’s good to hear these types of videos! Thanks you for sharing ❤
Thank you ❤️ You are bang on with this, people change as they grow and smaller YTs are the most free and unfiltered.
I think I've done the opposite thought process to normal, I think when I was smaller I thought affiliate links were just the thing to do, but as I grew, I realised it doesn't have to be like that and that I can be different.
Thanks for watching 🥰
Keep up the straight talk, Claire! Really enjoyed this. Wonderful idea about having the brand donate to your charity, that seems like a no-brainer to me. I have to admit I have used youtubers' discount codes because why not save a few bucks on a fragrance I was going to buy anyway? 😁 Cheers!
Hi Jim! I had a lot of stuff to get off my chest 🤣 I feel like an over-sharer 🤣 it did really upset me that the brand didn't even reply when I suggested a charitable donation. I guess that's not what they wanted. 🤷♀️ And yes, I understand using affiliate links completely if the deal is as good or better than any other. I just know in some cases, especially with multi-brand fragrance online retailers or Ama$on links, the price is often nowhere near the best deal. Have a fab Sunday 🥰
Wow so much though provoking honest information. And the topics you mentioned I had noticed or questioned myself. So thank you. ❤
I think we were all thinking some of this 🤣 it just needed someone who doesn't use affiliate links to point it all out 😉 thanks for watching 🥰
Wow that was such an eye-opener, I was not aware of the amount of different things going on in reviewing perfumes. Totally enjoyed the video and am now subscribed
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy that you found this informative 🥰
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 🥰
One of the most eloquent and well-researched videos I've ever seen on RUclips. Instant subscriber!
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy you found it informative! 🥰
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 🥰
I can absolutely see what you are saying. It feels like we are watching infomercials!
Thanks for your honesty and integrity Claire, always a pleasure watching.
Thank you ❤️ Absolutely! This ⬆️ infomercial is spot on! Have a fab Sunday, thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you for making this!!!! I’m so delighted to watch
Oh thank you! ❤️ I'm happy you enjoyed this! 🥰
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 🥰
This video should be YT fragrance 101 😂 thank you Claire for putting it out there❤
Thank you! 🥰
New subscriber here! I would like to say that it is so refreshing to see an honest person with integrity doing fragrance videos. I am so glad I discovered your channel! I enjoy discovering fragrances that are not the mainstream but many times it is so hard to find reviews because just like you mentioned regular RUclipsrs do not get any monetization from it therefore they don't do any reviews. A line that I have been enjoying so much is Le Couvent Maison and all the wonderful gems by Jean Claude Elena. Not easily available in the USA but upon research I see that they are available all over Europe for a very good price.
Thank you ❤️ I felt a bit scared to post this but it seems to have gone ok. I just don't think I ever want to sell people stuff. It feels quite soulless. I will take PR without conditions if offered, but that's it. ☺️
Ooh I only really know Jean Claude Ellena from his work for Frederic Malle and Hermes, I didn't know about le Couvent Maison, other than the really famous one that went viral back in 2020, Cologne of Missions. Thank you for making me aware of them 🥰
This is such a nuanced topic and I commend you for being bold enough to broach the elephant in the room. I think the motivating factor behind each channel will always influence the direction when it comes to the perfumes and how they are reviewed. The commercialization of perfume influencing is a topic that would honestly make a great research study. Middle Eastern perfumes are the new target and I see the trend playing out here too, where people now get free samples and give reviews that are at variance with what I know those perfumes to be. This is causing such a frenzy and taking up the prices of perfumes that only last year, were affordable and the lower income earner's avenue to also experience luxury scents. I'm really interested in seeing how perfume influencing plays out in the long run. Great topic!
Thank you ❤️ I almost didn't post this, I felt a bit scared to say what I think because let's face it, this isnt what most other channels want to see and hear is it? 😉 I think this video really says support your favourite smaller channels because those are more likely not to be an advert and to tell you the truth.
I agree about the less expensive Middle Eastern fragrance brands... The prices have shot up and they are becoming much more mainstream because of this shift to influencer marketing. People who would never have tried these fragrances are now reviewing them and yes, simply reading the brand blurb and regurgitating it. Thanks for watching 🥰
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 always trust your recommendations eventhough we don't have the same taste because you seem such a nice, honest person. Plus I really appreciate the fact that you do RUclips for fun, not for money.
Thank you! Yes, you don't have to have the same taste to get something from someone's reviews for sure! I often watch people I have completely opposite taste too, that can be really useful too! Have a fab Sunday 🥰
Thank you, Claire. Youre so soothing to watch.
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy to be relaxing 😂
Love love the honesty!!! Keep it coming I’m here for it thanks for all the info….
Thank you ❤️ I am always described by people who know me in real life as being "brutally honest" not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing 🤣 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. 🥰
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 💓
Great vid, Claire!
And the charity idea was fantastic!
Thank you ❤️ and yes, that company could have had some really lovely and meaningful PR really, they totally missed out! 🥰
Brilliant video Claire, I knew there was a reason I found your reviews the most honest and trustworthy! Thankyou! 🙂
Hi Bridget! Thank you ❤️ I'm sure many other people are equally trustworthy, you just need to find them! Thanks for watching 🥰
Thankyou and that is very humble of you 😀 🙂
I can't be the only one! 🤣
😁
Well to me you are, and now my newbie status has been revealed (exit the room) ahaha 😂
Hi Dr. Claire, I always love your topics. Great video.
Thank you ❤️ I was a bit worried about this one, but it's had a positive reaction thankfully 🥰
New subscriber here and this video popped up when I logged in this morning and I have to say it was very informative and spot on about fragcom. I've been watching fragrance reviewers for a few years now and I've learned a lot from them from the big time to the lesser known and by no means am I a shill to any of them and have seen where my comments don't get the hearts or replies anymore but I'm not worried about all that I do have a 200+ bottle collection but I don't go out and grab a new release just because so and so says that it's a must have and I will use an affiliate link now and then off the community page if it's for something that I've been interested in or in most cases a discontinued gem but I have a select number of discounters that I use and knowing what I know now I really get a kick out of reading someone's dislike of a fragrance after they ran out to get for the dreaded FOMO that being said I'm interested in checking out more of your content so have a safe blessed wonderful smelling day
Thank you ❤️ yes, I agree, I have learnt to be wary of hype and to sample. I am trying to reduce my collection at the moment. So far this year, the number has been relatively static. I absolutely love finding a discontinued gem too, I love designer fragrances from around 10 years ago, the golden age of designer perfumery seems to have passed from what I've smelt more recently. Thanks for watching and I think you may have to visit some of my older content for a bit as my hard drive broke on Friday, so I lost all of my video plans. 😥 I am currently waiting for my new laptop! Thanks for watching 🥰
Thankyou for this ethical and informative content Claire. You have a new subscriber now.😀
I started watching fragrances reviews since the pandemic and at first was influenced, but i became aware of the scent profile i like, and then no mater how hyped a perfume is, if its not matching what i like, i dont buy it, no matter what youtubers say.
I have always bought perfume through my own trusted websites too where i can get a better deal than some big brand perfume websites. (Especially middle eastern perfumes).
Thank you ❤️ I'm happy that you enjoyed this! And thanks for subscribing too!
Yes! It's always best to search for the best deal with each fragrance, you can save so much money that way. You will nearly always find a better deal than what is being pushed by the YTber. Thanks for watching 🥰
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. 🤷♀️
Excellent!! Truth teller. Keeping it 💯. Honesty and integrity trumps all!! Thank you!!
Thank you 🥰
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 👍
What a great and well thought out presentation. Extremely eye opening and honest. Subscribed.
Thank you ❤️ I appreciate that! 🥰
Such a breath of fresh air. Great video, looking forward to seeing a honest channel grow and thrive
Thank you ❤️ I feel better with all of this off my chest! This had been brewing for a while! 🤣
Wow..!this was totally different.loved it.telling it as it is🤔👍.. thank you.iv subscribed
Thank you ❤️ I appreciate that! 🥰
Brilliant video Claire - and all so true! I also literally roll my eyes and count how many times a certain influencer mentions their own fragrance in their videos. It’s sometimes ‘take a shot everytime they say…’ 😂😂😂 it’s made me stop watching them tbh. You can tell when someone loves their fragrances because they’re actually used. I actually miss the days where I had one bottle, used it up and then had a new one.
Haha, I know who you mean 😉
Oh me too! The satisfaction in finishing something and moving on is 👍 I tend to finish fragrances that I have bought used bottles of or just smaller decants, it's rare that I finish something from start to finish these days as I have too many 🤦♀️ but it does occasionally still happen and satisfyingly, I have just finished something I bought 4/5 years ago 😊 thanks for watching 🥰
@@dr.claire.perfume it’s a pleasure - I enjoy your videos.
@@RD-trixiedixie ☺️
I really like your channel and your scientific approach to your content! Thank you so much for making this video! Truely appreciate your honesty and integrity.👍👏
Thank you ❤️ that's really lovely of you to write! I try to be completely open and honest about my feelings and this was bothering me, so it was good to vent finally! Thanks for watching 🥰
Love this!! How I often approach this. I always have to take my personal taste and experiences with a brand and notes. Love listening to other people's takes on perfumes.
Absolutely! Other people's opinions are always welcome, no one can really tell you 100% what you will love or hate, we all have very different tastes and that's amazing 🥰
RUclips 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 🥰
Great content! Thanks for sharing!👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Thanks for watching 🥰
Thank you for speaking out on this topic. Great video.
Thank you ❤️ I appreciate you saying that, it means a lot. 🥰
Dear Claire,
I loved this video. I watch all your videos and I really like them.
But I really liked this one, especially because it confirms something I've observed for a long time.
And I say that it's not difficult to understand which people make videos just with the interest of selling perfumes or making money in some way.
I end up giving preference to only watching videos from people who I consider authentic and whose opinions I can trust. Thank you for your sincerity.
A hug from Brazil.
Thank you ❤️ that's really kind of you to write that! I'm happy that you enjoyed this! I was very worried about posting it... I think that is fab advice really, you need to decide which creators you feel speak to you in the way that you appreciate about fragrance. It's personal choice.
Thanks for watching 🥰 hugs back from the UK!
Love this video. You made some great points! I’m so “ perfumed out” lately 😂.
Thanks Erica! I'm always happy to see you! 😊
Always interesting topics here! I watch too much RUclips, and a lot of reviews for various things in particular. I am familiar with all of this largely due to the transparency of creators like you, and Ash, and Ross from TLTG Reviews.
I'm cool with affiliate links as long as your opinions are genuine, you're transparent, you have a track record of like telling us sometimes to not buy stuff. They are an easy way for us to support creators with our normal Amazon shopping. I'd totally click your link and give you a 3% kickback on this cat food I'm about to order!
PS I saw your name mentioned (positively!) in a reddit thread the other. day. I also smelled a body spray of a fragrance called Cloud that I've heard mentioned here - not bad at all.
Phew! 😂 Happy that the mention was positive! And yes affiliate links can be a nice way to be able to support someone I guess!
It's nice to know that there are others talking about the issues around this topic. Thanks for watching as always 🥰
I wish I could click the like button ten times over. No single lie detected in this video. Thanks for your classy yet truthful presentation. I did not realise how much money these influencers across the influencing spectrum are making. It definitely explains a lot. You've gained a permanent subscriber. Well done.
Thank you! ❤️ I think everything makes a lot of sense when you realise the amount of money people are clearly making through links even, and that's before brand specific collabs... I was a bit scared to make this video because of the potential reaction but I think it's been mainly positive so far, perhaps not from some channels that did support me, which is a shame. Thanks for watching 🥰
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 🥰