Perfume, often listed as Fragrance or Parfum, is a blend of aromatic compounds used to impart a pleasant scent to cosmetic products. These blends can be complex, containing dozens of individual chemicals, some natural and some synthetic. Its primary role is to enhance the sensory experience of a product.
NoneFragranceEvidence: High
BenefitNone 0 / 4
RiskHigh 2.5 / 4
Sensitization
Irritation
Eye irritation
Photosensitivity
Barrier disruption
Systemic exposure
Rated by SpottyLabs' ingredient methodology, independent of brands.
Things to watch
Potential for skin irritation
Common allergen
Can cause contact dermatitis
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Frequently asked questions
What is 'Perfume' or 'Fragrance' on an ingredient list?
Perfume or Fragrance refers to a complex mixture of aromatic chemicals, which can be natural or synthetic, added to products to give them a specific scent. Due to trade secret laws, manufacturers are not typically required to disclose the individual components of these blends.
Can perfume cause skin reactions?
Yes, perfume is a common cause of skin irritation and allergic contact dermatitis, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. The various components within fragrance blends can trigger adverse reactions.
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