Fragrances can be found in a wide range of products, from perfumes and colognes to cleaning products and personal care items. While they may smell pleasant, fragrances can be harmful to our health and the environment. In this blog post, we'll explore the dangers of fragrance and why you should avoid it.
What is Fragrance?
Fragrance is a catch-all term used to describe a mixture of synthetic and natural chemicals that are added to products to give them a specific scent. Fragrances are found in a wide range of products, including perfumes, colognes, deodorants, soaps, shampoos, and cleaning products.
The composition of fragrances is a well-kept secret in the industry, with many thousands of different compounds in use. This means that often, a product will simply be labeled as having fragrance, an umbrella term that can cover thousands of toxic chemicals.
75 percent of people who were tested for contact dermatitis had no idea that fragrance was the culprit. This is because people often don't realize they have been exposed to fragrances, as the immune system needs to be sensitized to the compound before a reaction can occur.
The mechanism behind fragrance allergy is the same as that behind poison ivy allergy - the immune system becomes sensitized to the compound after exposure. Although most fragrance compounds are moderate to weak sensitizers, they can become more potent sensitizers after undergoing a chemical transformation, such as in the presence of air or light.
Some common fragrance compounds, such as linoleum, limonene, and linole acetate, can become even more potent sensitizers after undergoing auto-oxidation. These hydroperoxides are not often included in allergy testing.
Why Should You Avoid Fragrance?
There are several reasons why you should avoid fragrance in products:
Worsening of skin conditions:
Fragrance has been linked to the worsening of several skin conditions. Contact dermatitis, for example, is a type of skin inflammation that can be triggered by fragrance ingredients. People with underlying skin conditions, such as eczema, are at greater risk of developing contact dermatitis to fragrance, and it may exacerbate their condition. Other skin conditions that can be worsened by fragrance include rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis. If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, it's best to avoid fragrance altogether. There are alternative options available that are free of fragrance and other irritating ingredients. Thebeautydoctrine.com is a great resource for finding cleaner and less toxic fragrance options than mainstream products, and skincare products that are fragrance-free.
Allergic reactions
Allergic reactions to fragrances are a significant concern, affecting many individuals worldwide. Fragrances contain hundreds of chemical compounds, and even small amounts of these compounds can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Studies have shown that fragrances are one of the most common causes of allergic reactions, with up to 10% of the population being affected. These reactions can range from mild symptoms, such as itching and redness, to more severe symptoms, such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
One of the most common types of allergic reactions to fragrances is contact dermatitis. This condition occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, resulting in redness, itching, and sometimes blistering. Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition, affecting up to 20% of the population, and fragrances are one of the most common triggers. In fact, a study conducted in Sweden found that fragrance was the most frequent cause of contact dermatitis in both men and women.
Photodermatitis
Photodermatitis is a type of skin reaction that occurs when certain substances found in fragrances, called photosensitizers, come into contact with the skin and are subsequently exposed to sunlight. This reaction can result in a range of symptoms, including redness, itching, and blistering of the skin. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, fragrance ingredients such as bergamot, lime, and other citrus oils, as well as musk, sandalwood, and oakmoss, have been identified as common photosensitizers in fragrances.
Pigmented Dermatitis
Pigmented contact dermatitis is a rare and poorly understood form of contact dermatitis that is characterized by the development of brownish pigmentation at the site of contact with the allergen. A study published in the Journal of Cutaneous Pathology found that fragrance was the second most common cause of pigmented contact dermatitis, with musk fragrances being the most common culprit. The study also noted that pigmented contact dermatitis caused by fragrance tends to occur more frequently in women and in older individuals. The mechanism by which fragrance causes pigmented contact dermatitis is not well understood, but it is thought to involve the activation of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin.
It is important to note that pigmented contact dermatitis can be difficult to diagnose, as it can mimic other conditions such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. If you notice any changes in your skin color or texture after using fragranced products, it is important to seek medical attention.
Respiratory issues
Fragrances can also lead to respiratory issues, especially in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma. Fragrances contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the respiratory tract and cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Studies have found that exposure to fragrances can trigger asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals and increase the risk of developing asthma in children.
A study conducted in Sweden found that exposure to perfumes and other scented products increased the prevalence of asthma symptoms among adults. Another study found that fragrance exposure increased airway inflammation and oxidative stress in people with asthma. Moreover, fragrance chemicals can also contribute to indoor air pollution, which can cause respiratory problems. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals with respiratory conditions avoid using fragranced products.
Hormonal Disruption
Fragrances have also been linked to hormonal disruption, which can have various effects on the body. Synthetic fragrances contain chemicals such as phthalates, which have been found to disrupt the endocrine system and affect hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
Studies have linked exposure to phthalates with adverse effects on reproductive health, including decreased sperm quality and quantity in men and early onset of puberty in girls. Some studies have also linked fragrance exposure to increased risk of breast cancer.
Symptoms of hormonal disruption can vary widely and may include menstrual irregularities, infertility, mood changes, weight gain, and decreased libido. While more research is needed to fully understand the extent of the effects of fragrances on the endocrine system, it's clear that they can have significant implications for our health.
Environmental Pollution
The use of fragrance has also been linked to environmental pollution, which can have significant ramifications for both the planet and human health. Synthetic fragrances are a major source of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to indoor and outdoor air pollution.
These VOCs can react with other pollutants in the air to form secondary pollutants, such as ozone and formaldehyde, which can have detrimental effects on the environment and human health. In addition, fragrance ingredients have been found in waterways, soil, and wildlife, leading to concerns about the long-term impact on ecosystems.
Studies have shown that certain fragrance ingredients, such as musk compounds and phthalates, are persistent in the environment and can bioaccumulate in wildlife, potentially disrupting the endocrine system and causing other adverse effects. Therefore, the use of fragrance should be minimized to reduce the impact on the environment and human health.
How to Avoid Fragrance and what to Look for on your Label?
When it comes to reducing exposure to fragrance and indoor pollution, it's important to read product labels carefully. Look for products that are fragrance-free or labeled as "unscented," as some products may contain masking fragrances to hide the scent. It's also helpful to choose products that have fewer ingredients and avoid products with harsh chemicals such as phthalates and parabens.
Why Choose Natural Fragrance?
Clean fragrances avoid the harmful chemicals often found in standard products, which means fewer side effects and a reduced environmental impact. They are made from natural and renewable ingredients, these fragrances offer a healthier alternative. Here’s why you should opt for clean fragrances instead of mainstream options laden with harmful chemicals:
1. Phthalates: Common in many scented products, phthalates are cheap solvents that make fragrances last longer. However, they are hormone disruptors with over 70 years of research linking them to reproductive hormone disruption, thyroid issues, and even social impairments in children. Phthalates are often hidden in ingredient labels and can be identified by DEHP, DBP, and DEP acronyms.
2. Healing properties: Natural fragrances offer emotional and physical healing benefits, such as calming, energizing, and mood-lifting effects. In aromatherapy, fragrance substances from various natural sources have been used for the treatment of various disorders. The aromatherapy treatment is a natural way of healing a person’s mind, body and soul. Many ancient civilisations, including Egypt, China and India, have used aromatherapy as a popular complementary and alternative therapy for thousands of years.
3. Parabens: These preservatives are used in many cosmetics and fragrances to prevent bacterial growth but have been linked to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even breast cancer. Choosing parabens-free products can reduce these risks and support your health.
I recommend the following clean fragrances for you:
Lake & Skye Echo Lake
Bright, fresh, and unforgettable. Echo Lake blends floral and woody notes with bergamot, juniper, and sandalwood for a scent that stands out. This unisex Eau de Parfum is perfect for daily wear, offering a unique and uplifting fragrance experience.
Lake & Skye Canyon Rose
Inspired by the spirit of the desert, this warm floral blend brings together rose petals, geranium, and vanilla. It’s a fresh twist on a classic floral scent that’s both unexpected and captivating.
UpCircle Flaura Eau de Parfum
This uplifting scent contains Jasmine Sambac and cinnamon Bark that envelops you in a bouquet of positivity and sensuality. If you are interested in perfumes made from upcycled ingredients and desire a refreshing and floral fragrance, this is your best pick.
UpCircle Santelle Upcycled Eau de Parfum
This is a gentle woody natural perfume made with four upcycled botanicals, featuring a combination of delicate sandalwood and sweet caramel immortelle, alongside Orange Essential Oil and Clove Leaf. This exquisite scent is soft, warm and suitable for all skin types.
Salt & Stone Black Rose & Vetiver Natural Candle
This is a dynamic and bright aromatic blend of pink grapefruit, orange and black pepper enhanced by Vetiver and Patchouli.
Whether you’re purchasing them for yourself or as a gift to a loved one, the fragrances recommended in this article are safe for you and the environment. They are made with clean ingredients alone and are free from harmful toxins like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates.
Be well. Be safe. Be beautiful.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8157593/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5198031/