Recently, I have been away from the community for a while. Life has been rather busy and a little messy as well. I was adjusting to working remotely and trying to manage my time properly, while also putting a large portion of my salary aside for some long-term goals. It was the right thing to do financially, but it also made me feel rather tight with money for a while. Thankfully, I'm in a much better place mentally now, and I'm slowly getting myself back into the things I enjoy. As for fragrances, working from home has naturally changed things quite a bit. Since I don't go out nearly as much anymore, I don't reach for my usual fragrances as often. During the summer I've mostly been using lighter options, including some cheaper alternatives, body mists and sprays. And honestly, Egyptian summer is not exactly forgiving. I still don't own a proper summer fragrance that I love — something along the lines of Bleu de Chanel or another fresh "blue" fragrance — so that's definitely something I'd like to change eventually. When I do go out, I still wear fragrance, but I've been staying away from the heavier ones. Something like Brazilian Tobacco in this heat would probably be an act of violence. 😄 There is, however, something else I've been dealing with recently. I've started getting quite severe itching, redness and burning wherever I spray fragrance, especially when I'm exposed to the sun afterwards. The heat here in Egypt has been intense, and unfortunately even fragrances that normally don't bother me can become uncomfortable in direct sunlight. I'm not entirely sure whether it's the fragrance itself, the combination of fragrance and sunlight, or simply the heat. If anyone here has experienced something similar or knows what might be causing it, I'd genuinely appreciate hearing your experience and what helped you. Anyway, it's good to be back. Hopefully I'll have some new fragrances, reviews and experiences to share soon.

Up front I’ve got Sol de Janeiro Cheiroso 7 and 10, their first two scents made with guys in mind but still fun and unisex. 7 is cozy and spicy, like a little snack with a kick, and 10 is brighter and more tropical perfect lazy grab‑and‑go spray. Behind them, the Commodity Bold kit, Commodity Moss and Heretic discovery set are my playground for big, room‑filling scents and cleaner, plant‑based blends. And the Zaharoff trio Soul Elixir, Seraphim Khus and Seraphim Musk bring all the depth and main‑character energy for when I want something rich and a bit spiritual.