What's the skinny?

We trial the world's first slimming fragrance

When we heard there was a perfume that could suppress the appetite resulting in weight loss, we were dubious to say the least. On closer inspection however, the claims behind Veld’s Prends-Moi stack up. According to research conducted by The Centre of Biological Research and Cutaneous Experimentation, 75% of women who used the product noted a decrease in their snacking urges after using the perfume for 28 days.

It's all based on olfactory therapy and the star ingredient Betaphroline, which enduces the release of the B-endorphins, which trigger an immediate sensation of well-being in the brain. A quick spritz when that 11am sugar urge hits means the craving is replaced by pleasure, allowing you to carry on sans muffin and eventually, sans muffin top.

In addition, a light massage after spraying Prends-Moi on the skin enables the Betaphroline, combined with an exclusive Slimming Complex, formulated with caffeine, carnitine and spirulina extract, to activate the two key enzymes directly involved in lipolysis (fat degradation). Spray it generously on the entire body in the morning before getting dressed, then throughout the day and finish with a light massage on problem areas in the evening.

So what does the world's first slimming fragrance actually smell like? Quite pleasant, actually. With summery top notes of bergamot, mandarin and grapefruit and a base of musk, patchouli and sandalwood, it's not at all overpowering and ideal for daytime.

The verdict: Used in conjunction with a healthy eating and exercise plan, Prend-Moi is a fun tool for staying on the right track. The scent is zingy and refreshing and a quick spritz put the kibosh on the evening cookie run.

Prends-Moi, developed by the French perfume house Robertet, is available now, €42 from www.velds.fr.