I think there is something to pheromones - those of us who have found our soul-mate are likely the beneficiaries of just such a chemical clue. Since we're already madly in love - artificial stimulants seem necessary.
As others have pointed out, many are not convinced that they work.
By definition pheromones are subtle - it isn't like smelling popcorn or chocolate. I expect that an individual's sensitivity varies - as well as the nature of the clue. If you apply a certain type of pheromone - but your body produces something quite different - what will the effect be?
In my mind it's got to be a trial and error process with no guarantees of results or success.