Anna Van Burnen, a senior at Stanford University, shared online that she saved up to purchase the $225 Tom Ford fragrance Lost Cherry, only to later learn that it smells exactly like embalming fluid. Despite this revelation, some people continue to support the claims about the perfume, while others are more dismissive. One former mortuary student argued that it does not actually smell like cadavers, encouraging people to continue using it if they enjoy it.
The debate online continues regarding whether Lost Cherry truly smells like embalming fluid, earning it the nickname “sweet cadaver” by some TikTok users. Some comments describe it as reminiscent of cherry lip balm from the early 2000s, while others have shared their positive experiences with the fragrance, using it as their wedding perfume. The ingredient benzaldehyde, used in food and fragrances to create cherry or almond scents, is responsible for the possibility of Lost Cherry smelling like cadavers.
Despite the conflicting opinions, experts have confirmed that Lost Cherry can indeed mimic the scent of cadavers due to the presence of benzaldehyde. Death doula and author Tree Carr described the fragrance as smelling like marzipan with a slightly spicy undertone, similar to the smell found at wakes where individuals have chosen to be embalmed. Funeral homes take precautions to minimize the chemical embalming scents through the use of benzaldehyde, which contributes to Lost Cherry’s unique aroma.
Although some individuals have expressed disappointment upon learning about the similarity between Lost Cherry and embalming fluid, others remain undeterred. One viewer shared a personal experience of working with cadavers and jokingly asking who was wearing Lost Cherry, indicating a sense of humor about the situation. The ongoing discussion highlights the subjective nature of fragrance preferences, with some people finding the scent delightful while others are turned off by its association with death and embalming processes.
The user reactions to the discovery that Lost Cherry shares a resemblance to embalming fluid vary, with some individuals choosing to view the situation with levity, while others are more serious in their discussions. One person commented that the perfume reminded them of a sinister, waxy, and artificial cherry scent from the early 2000s, showcasing the different perceptions of the fragrance. Despite the controversy surrounding Lost Cherry, it continues to attract admirers and fans who appreciate its unique blend of black cherry, tonka bean, and almond notes, regardless of its connection to embalming fluid.
In conclusion, the revelation that the Tom Ford fragrance Lost Cherry shares a resemblance to the aroma of embalming fluid has sparked a range of reactions online. Some individuals express disappointment upon learning about this association, while others remain enthusiastic fans of the perfume. The presence of benzaldehyde as an ingredient responsible for creating cherry and almond scents is what allows Lost Cherry to potentially mimic the smell of cadavers. Experts have confirmed this connection, with some individuals expressing surprise at the fragrance’s unique composition and its ability to evoke different emotions and memories for different people.
