Is Fragrance Bad For You?

The smell hit me as soon as I opened the bottle. Fresh linen, ocean breeze, or lavender fields—it doesn’t really matter. It was the kind of scent that makes you think, “This has to be clean and safe, right?” But as I’ve learned over time, the truth behind those fragrances is far from what we think. What’s hiding behind that simple word—“fragrance”—can be downright harmful.

In this article, you will learn about –

• What Is Fragrance?
• What Is Fragrance Made Up Of? – Fragrance Chemicals
• How To Read The Labels of A Fragrance Product?
• Is it harmful to use perfume every day?
• The Most Harmful VOCs to The Least Harmful Ones
• The Problem with “Fragrance-Free” Claims

What Is Fragrance?

According to the International Fragrance Association, which provides a wealth of information on fragrance safety and regulations, there are currently over 3,500 different fragrance chemicals that are actively used in consumer products worldwide.

This extensive list includes a variety of synthetic and natural compounds that contribute to the scents found in everything from perfumes to household cleaners. However, it’s important to note that while these chemicals add aesthetic value and enhance consumer experiences, exposure to certain fragrance ingredients has been linked to a variety of health issues, including allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and hormone disruption.

The concerning aspect of this situation is that manufacturers are not mandated to fully disclose the individual components that constitute the specific fragrance blend in their products. This lack of transparency means that consumers often remain unaware of the potential risks associated with these hidden chemicals.

We’ve all seen it on ingredient labels. But what does it mean?

Here’s the catch: “fragrance” can be a catch-all term for thousands of different chemicals. Many of these chemicals are unregulated and haven’t been tested for safety. Some of them, like phthalates, are known to disrupt hormones and have been linked to reproductive issues.

On average, an adult uses 12 personal care items daily, resulting in significant exposure to fragrances. Almost everyone in the U.S. encounters at least one fragrance weekly, potentially dozens or even hundreds of chemicals from just that single component, either through personal use or from surrounding products.

Two key things you must know about your favorite company:

Trade Secret
Companies often protect their formulas as trade secrets, making it difficult for consumers to know exactly what is in their favorite scents.

What Is Fragrance Made Up Of? – Potential Allergens and Controversial Ingredients in Fragrances

Fragrances, while delightful, can contain ingredients that raise concerns about health and the environment. Let’s examine some of the most notable allergens and controversial components, supported by scientific research.

Phthalates

Phthalates are a group of chemicals commonly used to enhance the longevity and stability of fragrances. They serve as plasticizers, which means they are added to materials like plastics to increase their flexibility, durability, and longevity. In the context of fragrances, phthalates play a crucial role in enhancing the scent’s stability and longevity, ensuring that the fragrance remains consistent and appealing over time.

Health Concerns:

• Endocrine Disruption: Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with hormone function. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found associations between phthalate exposure and reproductive health issues, particularly in males (Swan et al., 2005).
• Developmental Effects: Research has indicated that prenatal exposure to phthalates may be linked to developmental problems in children. A study in Pediatrics found that higher maternal phthalate levels were associated with behavioral issues in children (Hoffman et al., 2017).

Regulation: Due to these concerns, several countries, including the European Union, have banned certain phthalates in cosmetic products.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees cosmetics but does not specifically ban phthalates. Instead, it requires that cosmetics be safe for use. However, the FDA has not established a comprehensive list of prohibited substances.

The CPSC regulates phthalates in children’s products and toys. In 2008, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) banned the use of certain phthalates (specifically, DEHP, DBP, and BBP) in children’s toys and child care articles in concentrations greater than 0.1%.

Synthetic Musks

Synthetic musks, such as galaxolide and tonalide, are commonly used in fragrances to replicate the scent of natural musk.

Environmental Concerns

• Bioaccumulation: Studies have shown that synthetic musks can accumulate in the environment and in human tissues. A study published in Environmental Science & Technology highlighted the presence of synthetic musks in aquatic ecosystems, raising concerns about their impact on wildlife (Küster & Adler, 2014).
• Hormonal Effects: Research has indicated that synthetic musks may have estrogenic activity, potentially disrupting hormonal systems in both humans and animals. A study in Toxicology Letters found that certain synthetic musks can bind to estrogen receptors, suggesting a potential for endocrine disruption (Baker et al., 2007).

Allergenic Components

Some natural ingredients in fragrances can trigger allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive individuals.

Common Allergens:

• Jasmine: It contains compounds such as benzyl benzoate, which can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. A study in Contact Dermatitis reported that jasmine is a known sensitizer and can lead to allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals (Köck et al., 2011).
• Citrus Oils: Essential oils derived from citrus fruits (e.g., lemon, orange) can cause phototoxic reactions when exposed to sunlight. A study published in Dermatitis noted that limonene, a common component in citrus oils, can lead to allergic contact dermatitis and phototoxic reactions (Frosch et al., 2008).

Prevalence of Allergies: According to the American Contact Dermatitis Society, fragrance allergy is one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis, affecting a significant portion of the population.

While many fragrance ingredients are safe for general use, the presence of phthalates, synthetic musks, and certain allergenic components raises important health and environmental concerns.

Ongoing research continues to explore the implications of these ingredients, emphasizing the need for transparency and safety in fragrance formulation. Consumers are encouraged to be aware of these potential risks and to seek out products with safer, more natural alternatives when possible.

How To Read The Labels of A Fragrance Product?

Understanding the labels on your latest purchase can be challenging due to the complex terminology and varying regulations. But, to understand them, we must look into the following things:

Identify Common Terms

“Hypoallergenic”: This term implies that the product is formulated to minimize the risk of allergic reactions; however, since it is not subject to strict regulation, it does not provide absolute assurance of safety. Consumers should still review the ingredient list and consult with a dermatologist if they have sensitive skin or known allergies.

“Fragrance-Free”: Indicates no added fragrance, meaning the product does not have any synthetic fragrances included in its formulation. However, it is important to note that it may still contain individual ingredients derived from natural sources or other components that possess their own inherent scents.

These ingredients could be essential oils, botanical extracts, or raw materials that have not been neutralized or processed to remove their natural aroma. Therefore, even in products labeled as “fragrance-free,” there could be subtle scents present that result from the combination of these ingredients. Those with fragrance sensitivities or allergies should read the full ingredient list to identify any potential sources of scent that may affect them.

“Natural Fragrance”: This phrase indicates that the term “natural scents” encompasses fragrances that are sourced from plants, flowers, fruits, or other organic materials found in nature. However, it’s important to note that the definition of “natural” in this context is somewhat ambiguous, as it lacks strict industry regulation. Consequently, products labeled as containing natural scents can still incorporate synthetic components that are engineered to enhance or mimic the fragrances derived from their natural counterparts.

As a result, consumers may encounter products that market themselves as being entirely natural, even though they contain a mix of both natural and synthetic ingredients. This lack of regulation raises questions about transparency, authenticity, and the actual origins of the scents, compelling consumers to do their research and scrutinize ingredient labels if they prioritize truly natural products.

Check For Certifications

Cruelty-Free: Signifies that the product and its ingredients were not tested on animals, ensuring ethical and humane practices during development.

Organic or Natural Certifications: Look for seals from recognized organizations (e.g., USDA Organic, Ecocert) if you prefer products with natural ingredients.

Checking the certifications/Labels will help you understand the regulations followed by the company.

Get EWG’s Healthy Living app to conveniently scan products in stores and instantly check their ratings in Skin Deep.

Products that feature the EWG VERIFIED ® mark stand out as a noteworthy exception in the realm of consumer goods. This distinguished mark signifies that a product has been meticulously evaluated and is deemed free from the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) chemicals of concern.

Additionally, it indicates that the product adheres to the organization’s highest standards for transparency concerning its ingredients and formulation, as well as prioritizing your health and well-being.

EWG’s rigorous guidelines ensure that consumers can trust that products bearing this certification are not only safe but also align with a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Is it Harmful to Use Perfume Every Day & Why?

Daily use is not severely harmful for most healthy people, but it may cause skin irritation, allergies, respiratory problems, or hormone-related concerns over time. To reduce risks: spray on clothes (not directly on skin), use in well-ventilated areas, and consider perfumes labeled “phthalate-free” or “natural”.

Perfumes, while providing delightful scents, frequently consist of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde, benzene derivatives, phthalates, and synthetic musks. VOCs are organic chemicals that have high vapor pressures at room temperature, which means they can easily evaporate and enter the atmosphere as gases.

Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, is commonly used in the formulation of certain fragrances and can contribute to a variety of health issues. Benzene derivatives, which can also have toxic effects, are often included for their pleasant scent profiles.

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make fragrances last longer, but have been linked to disruptive effects on hormonal systems. Synthetic musks, designed to mimic natural musk scents, may also pose health risks due to their chemical nature.

Long-term exposure to elevated levels of these VOCs can lead to several adverse health effects, including respiratory problems such as asthma or chronic bronchitis. Individuals may also experience recurrent headaches and migraines due to the inhalation of these chemicals. Furthermore, the impact on the endocrine system can lead to hormonal imbalances, which may have wide-ranging effects on various bodily functions, reproductive health, and more.

Consumers need to be mindful of the ingredients in the perfumes they use and consider opting for products that are free of harmful VOCs or are made from natural ingredients to minimize potential health risks.

The Most Harmful VOCs to The Least Harmful Ones

VOC (Chemical Name)	Relative Harm Level
Benzene	Most harmful – known human carcinogen (blood cancers)
Formaldehyde	Probable carcinogen – strong respiratory irritant
Vinyl Chloride	Known carcinogen – linked to liver cancer
Perchloroethylene (PERC)	Possible carcinogen – used in dry cleaning
Toluene	Neurotoxic at high levels – headaches, confusion
Xylenes	Causes dizziness, irritation – solvent in paints/cleaners
Ethylbenzene	Possible carcinogen – found in fuels & plastics
Styrene	Possible carcinogen – plastics & rubber manufacturing
Methylene Chloride	Causes nausea, organ damage – paint strippers
Acetone	Irritant – common in nail polish remover, cleaners
Ethanol & Isopropanol	Mild irritants – in disinfectants, personal care
Limonene & Terpenes	Least harmful – natural cleaners, can form secondary pollutants

Regularly airing out your home and using air purifiers can also help minimize exposure and reduce potential health risks associated with VOCs.

Here’s the thing: you might love that “fresh” smell in your home, but those invisible chemicals could be doing more harm than good.

The Problem with “Fragrance-Free” Claims

You might be thinking, “I’ll just switch to fragrance-free products.” But even that can be misleading. Some products labeled as them for commercial success still contain masking fragrances that are used to cover up the natural smell of the ingredients. It’s always important to check the ingredients list and look for transparency. When in doubt, choose products with clear, simple ingredients.

The Health Risks of Fragrances [Scientific Research]

The effects of synthetic fragrances aren’t just short-term. Long-term exposure to these chemicals has been linked to:

• Asthma and Allergies: Studies have shown that synthetic fragrances can exacerbate asthma symptoms and trigger allergic reactions. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that individuals with asthma reported increased symptoms when exposed to scented products (Miller et al., 2009).
• Chemical Sensitivity: Some people develop multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), where exposure to synthetic fragrances can lead to a range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, and respiratory distress (Gibson et al., 2012).
• Asthma and Allergies: Studies have shown that synthetic fragrances can exacerbate asthma symptoms and trigger allergic reactions. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that individuals with asthma reported increased symptoms when exposed to scented products (Miller et al., 2009).
• Headaches and Migraines: Many individuals report headaches or migraines triggered by exposure to synthetic fragrances. A survey published in Headache indicated that a significant percentage of migraine sufferers identified fragrances as a common trigger (Miller et al., 2009).

From respiratory issues and endocrine disruption to skin irritation and neurological effects, consumers should be aware of the implications of using products containing synthetic fragrances. Opting for fragrance-free or naturally scented alternatives can help mitigate these risks and promote a healthier environment.

For those wanting to dive into the data, this study explains how fragrances can trigger respiratory issues, especially for those with pre-existing conditions like asthma.

How To Avoid Harmful Fragrances

To avoid fragrances, the Environmental Working Group recommends that consumers look for the terms “fragrance” or “parfum,” which should be interpreted as “concealed chemicals.” We think the safest option is to consistently choose fragrance-free products.

Making the Switch: Safer Alternatives You Must Use

Switching to products that are truly fragrance-free and made with safe, natural ingredients is one of the best steps you can take to protect your health. The good news is, you don’t have to give up pleasant smells altogether.

Look for products that use essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances. Essential oils provide natural, safe scents and come with added benefits like stress relief and improved mood. 🌸

At Tangie, we use essential oils in products like our shampoo bars and household cleaners. These products give you the fresh, clean feeling you love—without any of the hidden dangers of synthetic fragrances.

Fragrance-Free for a Healthier You

At the end of the day, being mindful of the scents we use on and around our bodies is an essential part of protecting our health. By choosing products with transparent labeling and avoiding synthetic fragrances, you’re making a choice that’s better for you, your family, and the planet.

If you’re ready to make the switch, check out Tangie’s shop for products that are free from harmful chemicals and synthetic fragrances.

It’s time to breathe easier—literally.

References

1. Swan, S. H., et al. (2005). “Decreased fertility among couples in a population-based study of couples attempting to conceive.” Environmental Health Perspectives.
2. Hoffman, K., et al. (2017). “Prenatal phthalate exposure and behavior in boys.” Pediatrics.
3. Küster, A., & Adler, N. (2014). “Synthetic musk fragrances: Environmental fate and effects.” Environmental Science & Technology.
4. Baker, J. E., et al. (2007). “Synthetic musks: A review of their effects on human health and the environment.” Toxicology Letters.