For someone who makes no secret of her obsession with fragrance, I’m always surprised by how frequently people ask me to recommend one for someone who hates the stuff. The Guardian’s journalism is independent. We will earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more. Sometimes wearing more potent fragrances is impossible for those prone to allergies or migraines, but mostly it’s an instinctive aversion to being held captive all day by scent too pervasive for one’s liking. And in these instances, I invariably suggest the layering of two more subtly scented products with compatible aromas, to add depth and interest without the same strength as a power perfume. The result is a sort of olfactory watercolour painting – gentler, translucent, less defined and kinder to a scent-sensitive nose, easier to wear and more appropriate in some settings. Rare Beauty have run with this concept for its new Layering Balms, £18. There are four ungreasy balms to choose from: Woody Oak (my favourite), Amber Vanilla, Floral Peony Blossom and Bergamot, each created to stroke on to pulse …