Freshness that keeps up with you
As skin changes with age, it produces nonenal — a compound that causes age-related body odour. Senn Life personal care products are formulated to neutralise it, gently and effectively.
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What is nonenal?
Nonenal is a naturally occurring compound that develops as we age and may contribute to a distinctive odour that lingers on skin, clothing, and bedding — even with good hygiene.
Why does it happen?
As we age, skin oils naturally oxidise to produce nonenal as a by-product. This is a normal part of ageing — it does not mean someone is unclean — but it does mean that good hygiene alone is not always enough to address the odour.
Understanding the science is the first step towards finding effective solutions.
Common signs
You may recognise one or more of the following — and now you may understand why.
- Fresh clothes developing an odour quickly after wearing
- Bedding smelling stale despite regular washing
- Towels retaining a lingering scent
- A subtle odour that returns soon after bathing
- Family members noticing a change in scent
Natural ingredient
Persimmon
A fruit with a long history in Japanese personal care, studied for its potential to neutralise nonenal and other age-related compounds.
What research says
Researchers in Japan have explored the use of persimmon-derived extracts because of their potential to help neutralise nonenal. Persimmon has been used in traditional Japanese personal care products for many years.
At Senn Life, we are exploring how natural ingredients — including botanical extracts native to South Africa — may support freshness and confidence as we age.
Our story
Senn Life was founded by a husband-and-wife team who, like many people entering their fifties, began taking a greater interest in healthy ageing and overall wellbeing.
As they explored the science of ageing, they discovered a subject that few people have heard of: nonenal, a naturally occurring compound associated with age-related odour. They were struck by how little awareness existed around this topic, despite the impact it can have on confidence and quality of life.
That discovery inspired them to create Senn Life — a brand built on the belief that healthy ageing should be discussed openly, honestly, and without embarrassment.
South Africa is home to an extraordinary diversity of botanicals — including rooibos, fynbos, and honeybush — all valued for their natural properties. As Senn Life grows, the aim is to incorporate this botanical heritage into a range of thoughtfully developed personal care products.
Join the waitlist →Coming soon
Our first products
Persimmon Soap
A gentle bar soap formulated to neutralise nonenal at the source.
Body Wash
A daily body wash designed to leave skin feeling clean and fresh.
Fabric Freshener
A fabric spray to help neutralise nonenal in clothing and bedding.
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Join our waitlist to:
- Receive launch updates
- Get early access to our first products
- Learn more about healthy ageing and nonenal
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Join the growing Senn Life community and stay informed about healthy ageing and freshness.
Frequently asked questions
What is nonenal?+
Nonenal is a naturally occurring compound that has been identified by researchers as one of the substances associated with age-related body odour. Studies suggest that it may become more common as we age due to changes in skin oils and natural oxidation processes. Nonenal can cling to skin, clothing, towels, and bedding, which may cause certain odours to linger even after washing.
Is nonenal normal?+
Yes. Nonenal is considered a normal part of the ageing process and does not mean that a person is unclean or has poor hygiene. Just as our skin, hair, and bodies change over time, our natural scent can also change with age. Understanding these changes can help us make informed choices about personal care and wellbeing.
Does everyone develop nonenal?+
Not necessarily. People age differently, and the amount of nonenal produced can vary from person to person. Factors such as genetics, lifestyle, diet, environment, and individual skin chemistry may all play a role. Some people may notice age-related odours more than others, while some may experience little or no change.
Can washing remove nonenal?+
Regular bathing and laundering are important for overall hygiene, however certain odours can persist despite good washing habits. Research suggests that nonenal can bind to skin oils and fabrics, which may make it more difficult to remove completely with conventional soaps and detergents alone.
What is persimmon extract?+
Persimmon extract is derived from the fruit of the persimmon tree. In Japan, persimmon has been used for many years in personal care products and has attracted interest for its potential ability to help neutralise certain odour-causing compounds, including nonenal. Researchers continue to study its properties and potential applications in personal care and healthy ageing products.
Are Senn Life products available yet?+
Not yet. We are currently developing products inspired by the latest research into healthy ageing, natural ingredients, and freshness. Join our waiting list to receive updates, educational resources, and news about future product launches.
Why have I never heard of nonenal before?+
Although nonenal has been discussed in scientific research for many years, public awareness remains relatively low outside of certain countries, particularly Japan. At Senn Life, part of our mission is to make the science of ageing more accessible and to help people better understand the natural changes that occur as we grow older.
Is there anything wrong with age-related body odour?+
No. Changes in body scent are a natural part of ageing and should not be a source of shame or embarrassment. At Senn Life, we believe that ageing should be approached with dignity, understanding, and confidence. Our goal is to provide education and explore natural ways to support freshness and wellbeing throughout life's later years.