Fragrance refers to a complex mixture of natural or synthetic aromatic chemicals used to give products a pleasant scent or to mask unpleasant odors. Due to proprietary reasons, the exact composition is often not disclosed. It primarily serves an aesthetic purpose in cosmetic formulations.
NoneSensory enhancerEvidence: High
BenefitNone 0 / 4
RiskHigh 2.5 / 4
Sensitization
Irritation
Eye irritation
Barrier disruption
Systemic exposure
Acne aggravation
Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.
Things to watch
potential for skin irritation
potential for allergic reactions
can be a sensitizer
Spot questionable ingredients in seconds
SpottyLabs scans any skincare product and rates every ingredient for benefit, risk and safety. Free and independent — no brand is paying us.
'Fragrance' or 'Parfum' is a general term used to represent a blend of various aromatic compounds, which can be natural or synthetic. Companies are often not required to disclose the individual components due to trade secret laws.
Can fragrance cause skin problems?
Yes, fragrance is a common cause of skin irritation and allergic contact dermatitis, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. It can lead to redness, itching, and rashes.
Is natural fragrance safer than synthetic fragrance?
Not necessarily. Both natural and synthetic fragrances can contain compounds that cause irritation or allergic reactions. The source of the fragrance does not inherently determine its safety for sensitive individuals.
Spotty Labs