On networks, adolescents and young adults swear by their “Spray deodorants” And “scented mists“. An obsession with the” smell “that worries experts, denouncing a new form of olfactory anxiety. Amélie Boukhobza, clinical psychologist, deciphers this phenomenon for doctissimo.
What is the “clean girl” phenomenon?
Apply an anti-transpirant then a fragrant deodorant or to combine a “intimate” deodorant and a “classic” deodorant: so many different routines but which are part of a single phenomenon: the boom of bodies … devoid of odors. According to an article from France Info, this “fashion” would be much more than just “passade” for young followers. It would be a global movement, even going so far as to enrich companies that have perceived the potential of these new mists.
“In the United States, Unilever speaks of an” innovation of the year “, and the Lume brand exceeded 300 million dollars in sales in 2023”, says the magazine.
On the composition side, the “Whole Body Deodrants” combine several types of ingredients to ensure both freshness, comfort and protection. They generally contain absorbent powders, which help regulate humidity and limit the sensation of dampness. To this are added perfumes, which bring this little “more” attractive thing. Finally, these deodorants also incorporate antibacterial agents, such as mandelic acid or magnesium hydroxide, which help reduce the proliferation of bacteria responsible for bad odors.
Disodrants or scented mists supposed to allow us to smell good “everywhere” … while only armpits and groin – an intermediate region between the abdomen and the thigh – (sometimes) produce disturbing odors. So many products that therefore surf the enthusiasm of the youngest … without providing real health and/or beauty benefits.
What does this obsession with us say?
Asked about it, psychologist Amélie Boukhobza says she is worried.
“Pulverizing from head to toe, stacking the layers of products without even knowing the consequences, all in the name of a” clean girl “routine … Another phenomenon specific to our time. Everything must be controlled, sanitized, instagrammable. The smell, however deeply human, becomes suspect. We no longer want to sweat, no longer leave the slightest trace of oneself. The body must be neutral. Et quid of body chemistry, pheromones, meeting odors? The smell of which psychoanalysis says is an object of the body … “, reveals the practitioner.
Obviously, this phenomenon reflects a new form of anxiety.
“The anxiety of embarrassment, to be judged, to displease. The perfume becomes a social shield. As if erasing any bodily odor made it possible to avoid rejection. But in reality, this gesture even avoids the meeting. With, as a bonus, very real risks“warns the expert.
Risks for the skin, of course, attacked by an accumulation of irritating products. For health too, with endocrine disruptors of certain sprays.
“And especially for psychic construction: if you learn to disgust its natural smell, how to live your body serenely? The smell is a part of identity. It tells something about us, it anchors memories, it creates bond. Erase it at all costs, it is denying an essential dimension of the human”, Recalls Amélie Boukhobza. “”So remember that feeling is not synonymous with dirt. It’s just a way of living“, She concludes.