From Pharmacy to Perfumery | Enshirah Al Khamar on her Path into Becoming a Perfumer

With a childhood steeped in a myriad of aromatic experiences, Enshirah’s fascination with scent was ignited early on.

As a former pharmaceutical scientist, Enshirah's transition into perfumery brings a unique blend of scientific rigour and artistic flair, ensuring her brand Hamdah London stands out in the ever-evolving fragrance industry.

Join us as we explore the intersection of artistry and science in Enshirah’s work, discover how her experience as a pharmaceutical scientist has endowed her with a unique perspective in perfumery, and learn how the diverse landscape of multi-cultural British perfumery continues to inspire Enshirah, driving her passion and shaping her craft!

How did you discover the power of scent, and when did you realise you wanted to become a fine fragrance perfumer?

My journey into the world of scents began in my childhood, amidst a diverse array of aromas ranging from French haute couture fragrances to Asian oil-based scents, including pure oud and jasmine. I was deeply influenced by observing my mother and her friends as they experimented with blending various perfumes to craft new, unique fragrances. This early exposure fostered a profound admiration for the art of scent creation. My desire to pursue a career as a fine fragrance perfumer crystallised in 2018 after participating in a workshop on fine fragrances.
This initial experience kindled a passion that led me to further my education in the field, including attending specialised courses in Italy and the renowned European perfume capital of Grasse, France. My curiosity and fascination with perfumery have only grown since then.

How do you believe your background as a pharmaceutical scientist influenced and enriched your perspective on fragrance creation and perfumery?

My background as a pharmaceutical scientist has significantly shaped my approach to perfumery, particularly in the selection and responsible sourcing of ingredients, the creation of artisanal fragrances, and a commitment to sustainability and safety. This experience has allowed me to develop efficient processes throughout the business from the initial concept development to research and development to manufacturing and packaging processes.

It is also an enabling way to communicate the science behind our creation development to our clients, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of our products and the brand.

As a perfumer, how do you navigate the balance between art, science, and innovation?

In my work, I strive to balance the artistic, scientific, and innovative aspects of perfumery. My artistic side drives me to explore unique scent combinations and push the boundaries of traditional fragrance creation.

At the same time, my scientific training ensures a logical approach to formula development, and my passion for innovation leads me to discover new methods and materials for creating premium fragrances.

What is one of your favourite creations, and could you share with us its conception and some of its creative process?

One of my most cherished creations is the "Sweet and Delicious Oud" eau de perfume.
This fragrance is a homage to the rich narratives of ancient deserts and mystic tales, with core notes of oud complemented by Bulgarian Rose, lotus, vanilla, neroli, and a hint of blackcurrant. Its creation was an attempt to capture the essence of passion, mystery, and the allure of the Arabian Nights, and it holds a special place in the legacy of my work.

As a perfumer, what are the current challenges in your job, and what latest developments and innovations excite you creatively and technically?

The main challenges I face in my role relate to marketing and brand visibility, particularly for a smaller brand.

However, I am excited by the ever-evolving landscape of the fragrance industry, especially developments related to sustainable, clean, and ethical raw materials.

What key craft aspects are you particularly focusing on for your brand Hamhdah London, and how do you hope to reflect them in Hamdah London's scent experiences?

For Hamdah London, I emphasise sustainability artisanal craftsmanship, and bespoke, clean creations that are vegan and cruelty-free. Our customised scent experiences are designed to reflect these values, offering our clients the opportunity to have a truly unique personalised experience creating their very own signature fragrances.

As a renowned perfumer promoting diverse ways to make fragrance education and training more inclusive and diverse through an array of courses and masterclasses, what role does inclusivity play in your vision of perfumery?

Inclusivity is a cornerstone of our brand's philosophy and approach to fragrance education. By combining the diverse backgrounds symbolized by the names "Hamdah" and "London," we strive to create unique scents that celebrate global diversity. Our courses and masterclasses are designed to be accessible to a wide audience, encouraging creativity and the exploration of premium ingredients from around the world. This approach enables our students to mix ingredients from various origins, resulting in unparalleled uniqueness and diversity.

What tips and advice would you recommend to anyone aspiring to pursue a career in fragrance creation and become a perfumer?

Immerse yourself in the field through workshops, learning from a diverse range of perfumers, and being open to both traditional and unconventional approaches. This broad perspective can provide valuable insights and inspiration for your own journey in perfumery.