An electrostatic atomizer comprises a fluid channel terminating in one or more orifices; means for controlling the flow of fluid out of the orifices; means for electrically charging fluid so that the fluid atomizes when it exits the or each orifice, wherein the atomizer further comprises control means which automatically pulse the flow ‘ON’ and ‘OFF’ and control means which automatically pulse the application of the charging voltage ‘ON’ and ‘OFF’, the ‘ON’ flow pulse and the ‘ON’ charging pulse being set to substantially coincide one with another, said control means switching electronically the charging voltage ‘ON’/‘OFF’.