Is fragrance bad for you and your skin?

Fragrance is one of those ingredients many of us not only know about, but we love. It’s what makes products smell so good. Although sweet smells are present in nature it is more difficult and expensive to extract it, hence fragrance is manufactured. However, fragrance often has side effects that are not so rosy. Fragrance refers to scents which are chemicals.

Why is fragrance bad for you?

There are some reasons why the use of fragrances is bad for us in the long run. The EWG states that at least 14 chemicals are present under the fragrance label. Here are some specific side effects for this chemical.

1. Fragrance can cause Headache and Nausea

Fragrance can trigger headaches and nausea, especially in pregnant people. In addition, it can trigger an asthma attack and can even cause memory problems.

2. Fragrance can cause allergies

Fragrance can also trigger allergies. However, the severity of allergic reactions is based on the length of the exposure. If a person works in a role that gives them continuous exposure to fragrances then the symptoms will be higher.

3. Fragrance may contain phthalates

Fragrance may contain phthalates, which are chemicals used to make plastic soft and are toxic to human health. The related illnesses tied to phthalates are frightening.

How do they end up in Products?

Fragrances are usually very delightful. It is added to perfumes where the fragrance is the main purpose or to other products to add to the appeal of it. Have you ever bought a shampoo because the pineapple coconut smell was heavenly? Well, that is a big part of the motivation for adding fragrance. When the smell of a product is appealing it increases its appeals.

Which products are fragrance found in?

Fragrance is found in almost any product. ironically even products without any noticeable scent can contain fragrance. The obvious products are perfume, hair and skin products, cleaners and the list goes on. There is a good chance a random product will contain un-natural fragrance.

Companies that have a focus on natural alternatives will use essential oils as a replacement for fragrance.

How can you recognize fragrances in a product?

Fragrance is very often listed as the actual ingredient. Other names include parfume, perfume, essential oil blend and aroma. Note that an essential oil blend does include fragrance. Pure essential oils are usually all-natural.

What are the alternatives?

Essential oils are the natural alternative to fragrance. Essential oils are extracted from plants using heat. Fragrance is a very cheap alternative, hence its popularity. Some hand-picked products that use essential oil are shown below.