The scientists have discovered a combination of smells - including pepper, grapefruit, fennel, pepper and tarragon - that stimulates the brain to produce noradrenaline, a hormone that activates a protein that burns up fatty acid.

In a month-long study of 20 women who used a lotion containing these scents, as well as caffeine, 14 lost more than a centimeter from their waists. On average, the women shed more than two pounds.

A Shiseido spokesperson in the U.S. stresses that the innovation has not been linked to any specific product yet. Reports from Japan say that the company could release a series of cosmetics with the slimming scent as early as this summer.

The Japanese cosmetics giant has often been a leader in aromachology, the study of the physical and mental impact of scents. Its current offerings include relaxing and energizing fragrances.

This is Shiseido's first venture into the wide - and quite lucrative - world of weight loss. The company shut down its 5S line, with products available in refreshing and calming, last November.