The French philosopher Mr Henri Bergson said that sex appeal is the keynote of our civilisation, which might go some way to explaining why the fragrance industry is worth $40bn. Think about it – our olfactory senses dictate what we do in such a subconsciously powerful way. They can induce nostalgia, elicit emotion and even turn us on. Smell is the original aphrodisiac, picking up pheromones to get us, er, in the mood.

“Throughout history, our sense of smell was employed to fulfil three functions: find food, escape danger and get a mate,” explains perfumer Mr Roja Dove. “That is why fragrance can become one of the most fundamental parts of intimacy; when someone smells desirable, the hormone balance in your body is stimulated and you subconsciously become attracted to them. It is the most intimate accessory and key in the art of seduction.”

If your intimate life has seen better days, maybe it is time to switch up your scent and enhance your olfactory alchemy. A fresh fragrance can make people look at you differently and even increase your own confidence, both of which won’t hurt your chances.

To get you started, we spoke to Mr Dove on what notes will help you pull, and found the freshest scents of the summer. Here’s hoping a spritz leads to something more.

If it’s fresh you’re after, look no further than Diptyque’s new scent. The crisp fragrance has more underlying depth than anything else from the line, framing the aromatic mint with base notes of patchouli. It is surprisingly masculine for such a green smell, making it both seductive and sprightly at the same time.

“It is no grand statement to say that mint is the universal olfactive symbol of cleanliness,” says Mr Dove. “What’s not to like about a person who promises to be clean? A fresh scent is one more reason to lean in a little closer…”

Mr Ben Gorham’s latest smell for Byredo is summer encapsulated; warm, optimistic and slightly nostalgic. The citrus-based uplifting notes of lemon and mandarin are instantly refreshing while neroli, jasmine and a hint of musk provide a needed touch of escapism – think sunsets in Sardinia or sipping Corona by the coast. Probably the lightest scent of the lot, Sundazed lingers on the skin in a way that isn’t overpowering; sometimes the musk can wear the man, so that’s not a bad thing. If you want something sensual but also subtle, this is it.

Mr Tom Ford himself says this is a “fresher expression” of the classic Costa Azzurra, that it “merges cool air and refreshing water as one.” There is also surprising warmth to this smell as a result of the amber notes, which lends an almost carnal aroma to the otherwise light fragrance.

“Amber is a soft material, with an earthy and sweet sensibility,” explains Mr Dove. “It grounds any scent with a deep, rich base; a hint of the exotic. It also is a great fixature, so your perfume lasts longer – you can dance all night and the amber will ensure it doesn’t fade.”

“Tonka bean has a sweet, often almond or caramel-like odour with tobacco undertones,” says Mr Dove. “It is a rich and complex material which is somewhat enigmatic – it keeps people guessing. If you want to be a man of mystery, this is the note you go for.”

Despite its name, Le Labo’s first new fragrance in three years is actually centred around the Atlas cedar, a dark wood that blends well with the soft tones of the tonka bean. You’ve got to smell it to understand the duality of the scent – light and dark, feminine and masculine, strong and gentle. It is, as the good perfumer said, a totally pleasing enigma.

Jo Malone London describes this as “the essence of evening”, which is not far off – the scent is simultaneously calming and invigorating, thanks to the fusion of Japanese incense and jasmine with leather and ginger. Ginger is well-known for being a very stimulating ingredient, kickstarting circulation and pushing out pheromones – ideal for a spot of subtle seduction.

“It goes without saying that ginger adds spiciness to a scent,” explains Mr Dove. “This warm, strong material is sure to turn up the heat.” Feeling hot and bothered yet?

A niche British brand, Laboratory Perfumes has gained quite a cult following lately with its considered scents and ethical practises. Named after the Moroccan mountain range, Atlas is an exotic mix of cinnamon, ginger and black pepper mellowed with vanilla, hay and even rum. You’d think smelling like alcohol would be a bad thing but, in this case, the subtle note is best thing about the fragrance; sexy, warm and a touch mysterious.

“A boozy note is sure to add a suave and sophisticated undertone to a scent,” explains Mr Dove. “It conjures up images of the luxury and class of private members’ clubs.” Want to smell expensive? This is the one.