Can Scented Products Harm Our Health? What Is Important to Know About Fragrance in Cosmetics, Candles, and Home Products

We love pleasant scents.

A body cream leaving behind a floral fragrance, a shampoo whose scent stays in the hair, laundry smelling of cleanliness, and a scented candle filling the home with a warm feeling.

A pleasant scent can evoke memories, affect mood, and turn daily actions into an enjoyable experience.

But have you ever stopped to think what actually creates these scents?

When we smell a cosmetic product, candle, or fabric softener, we usually relate to the scent as part of the product's quality.

If it smells good, we may feel it is cleaner, more pampering, or of higher quality.

But chemically, a pleasant scent does not necessarily indicate the product's safety, just as a strong scent does not prove it is harmful.

To understand the subject, it is worth knowing the ingredients behind the word Fragrance, the difference between natural and synthetic fragrance, and the possible effects of exposure to fragrance substances on the skin and airways.

What really hides behind the words Fragrance and Parfum?

When we look at a cosmetic product's ingredient list, we are used to seeing names of various substances.

Water, glycerin, oils, preservatives, and active ingredients.

But sometimes only one word appears in the list:

Fragrance or Parfum.

These words usually refer to a fragrance mixture and not necessarily to a single chemical ingredient.

Such a mixture can contain several fragrance substances and sometimes dozens of different ingredients.

In some formulas it may be even more complex.

In the United States, according to cosmetics labeling rules, a fragrance mixture can in certain cases be noted by the generic name Fragrance without detailing each of its components separately.

One reason for this is the protection of commercial formulas.

However, it is important to understand the rules vary between countries.

In the European Union, for example, there are requirements for separate labeling of certain fragrance allergens when they exceed concentrations set in regulations.

Therefore the word Fragrance does not necessarily tell us the full composition of the scent mixture.

But it is also not proof the product contains dangerous substances.

Safety depends on the specific ingredients, their concentrations, the manner of use, and the degree of exposure.

Why is fragrance added to skincare products at all?

Fragrance has several roles.

The first is of course the use experience.

A pleasant scent can turn applying cream or washing hair into an action we enjoy more.

The second role is to mask natural odors of the raw materials.

Some ingredients used in cosmetics do not have a particularly pleasant smell, even when they are quality and safe for use.

Fragrance can help create a uniform, familiar scent for the product.

In addition, scent is part of the identity of many brands.

But biologically, the skin does not need fragrance to maintain moisture, support its protective barrier, or enjoy the activity of other cosmetic ingredients.

Fragrance can improve the use experience, but it is not an essential ingredient for skin health.

Can fragrance cause allergy in the skin?

Yes.

This is one of the most medically established subjects in the fragrance substances field.

Certain fragrance ingredients are known as possible causes of contact allergy, called Allergic Contact Dermatitis.

It is a response of the immune system to a substance against which the skin developed sensitivity.

Symptoms can include redness, itching, dryness, peeling, and sometimes rash or blisters.

It is important to distinguish between two conditions.

Skin irritation — Irritant Contact Dermatitis

A response that can appear when a certain substance harms the skin barrier or irritates it, even without allergy.

Contact allergy — Allergic Contact Dermatitis

An immune response developing following sensitivity to a certain substance.

Not every response to a scented cream is an allergy.

But when a recurrent response to scented products appears, evaluation by a dermatologist should be considered.

In certain cases Patch Tests can be performed to identify specific allergens.

Can an allergy develop to a product we used for years?

Yes.

This is an especially interesting point.

Sometimes we use the same product for a long period with no problem, and one day skin reactions begin appearing.

Allergic sensitivity can develop after repeated exposures, even if the product was tolerated in the past.

But it is important not to conclude that every new irritation stems from the fragrance.

The formula may have changed, the skin barrier may have been damaged, or another factor may exist.

If a reaction develops, it is worth stopping use of the suspect product and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist.

What are phthalates and why are they discussed in the fragrance context?

Phthalates are a group of chemical compounds used in various industries.

Some phthalates were or are used in fragrance mixtures as solvents or substances helping stabilize the formula.

One substance discussed in the context of perfumes and cosmetics is Diethyl Phthalate, or DEP.

It is important to understand that not all phthalates are identical.

Different substances in this family have different properties, uses, and risk profiles.

Some phthalates were linked in studies to effects on the reproductive and hormonal systems, and regulatory restrictions were imposed on them.

But it cannot be concluded from this that every scented product contains phthalates, or that all phthalates cause the same effects.

The evidence regarding risk from regular use of products containing DEP is also not identical to the evidence regarding other phthalates.

Therefore it is important to avoid generalizing a whole chemical family.

If the subject troubles you, products whose manufacturer declares the absence of phthalates can be chosen, with the understanding that such a declaration is not a comprehensive measure of the product's safety.

Can fragrance substances affect the hormonal system?

Some chemical substances are researched for their ability to affect hormonal activity.

They are sometimes called Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals — substances with potential to disrupt endocrine system activity.

But it is very important to distinguish between laboratory findings, animal studies, and evidence of health effects in humans at accepted exposure levels.

The very fact that a certain substance showed hormonal activity under experimental conditions does not prove a cosmetic product containing it causes hormonal disturbance in users.

The risk depends on the dose, exposure route, exposure duration, and the substance's properties.

Therefore there is currently no scientific basis to determine that every scented product disrupts hormones.

On the other hand, there is definitely justification for continued research and supervision of substances regarding which substantiated concerns arise.

What are synthetic musks?

Musk is a name describing a family of fragrances used in the perfumery world.

In the past animal sources were also used, but today the fragrance industry uses mainly synthetic fragrance substances.

There are several different groups of synthetic musks.

Some were researched for their persistence in the environment and the possibility of their accumulation in animal tissues and ecological systems.

But not all synthetic musks behave the same way.

Some of the older substances were restricted or replaced, and compounds with different properties are also used.

Therefore it is important to examine each substance on its own and not conclude every musk scent is necessarily dangerous.

And what happens when we breathe scents at home?

So far we spoke mainly about products coming into contact with the skin.

But there is also exposure through the air we breathe.

Scented candles, scent diffusers, room sprays, cleaning products, and laundry products can release volatile compounds into the air.

Some belong to a group called Volatile Organic Compounds — or VOCs for short.

It is a very broad group of substances evaporating at regular temperatures.

But it is important to know that not every VOC is a dangerous substance, and not every volatile compound causes the same health effect.

The risk depends on the substance's identity, its concentration in the air, exposure duration, and ventilation conditions.

In some cases, scent products can also participate in chemical reactions with other air pollutants and create additional compounds.

This is one reason researchers are interested in the effect of fragrance products on indoor air quality.

Can scented candles be harmful?

Scented candles create a pleasant atmosphere, but it is important to remember they combine two possible sources of emissions into the air.

One is the fragrance substances.

The second is the combustion process.

Burning candles can release particles and additional substances, according to candle type, wick, combustion quality, and ventilation conditions.

But there is no justification to determine that every use of a scented candle is dangerous to health.

The exposure level varies greatly between situations.

One candle in a ventilated room is not similar to prolonged use of many candles in a small, closed space.

If you love candles, it is worth using them moderately, ensuring ventilation, and avoiding combustion creating visible smoke.

Do scent diffusers and air fresheners really purify the air?

Despite the name, many scent products do not remove pollutants from the air.

They mainly add fragrance, and sometimes mask existing odors.

There are products also containing odor-neutralizing ingredients, but the very addition of perfume does not make the air cleaner.

If there is an unpleasant smell at home, its source should first be identified.

Moisture, mold, garbage, cooking, or a ventilation problem are not necessarily solved by adding a strong scent.

Sometimes opening windows, operating suitable ventilation, cleaning the odor source, or using effective air filtration are more helpful solutions.

In my eyes, a clean home does not have to smell like perfume.

Sometimes precisely the absence of a strong scent is the most pleasant thing.

Can scent products cause headaches or worsen asthma?

In some people, exposure to strong scents may trigger symptoms.

For example, headaches, a feeling of nausea, irritation in the nose or throat, and sometimes worsening of respiratory symptoms.

People suffering from migraines may report certain scents as a factor triggering an attack.

People with asthma or airway sensitivity can also be affected by certain scent products.

But it is important to distinguish between a response to scent and proven chemical allergy.

Not every headache following a strong scent stems from an allergic response.

And the fact that a certain scent bothers one person does not mean it is equally dangerous to everyone.

If you notice certain scents cause you symptoms, it is worth reducing exposure and evaluating the subject if needed.

Can fragrance ingredients be absorbed through the skin?

Yes, some fragrance substances can penetrate skin layers, and some may also be absorbed into the bloodstream.

But here it is important for me to emphasize a significant scientific point.

Absorption through the skin is not identical to toxicity.

The skin is a complex biological barrier.

The degree of penetration of a substance depends on the molecule size, its solubility, concentration, formula, body area, and the condition of the skin barrier.

Different substances behave in different ways.

Even when a substance is absorbed, this does not necessarily mean it causes damage.

The body is able to break down and excrete many substances.

Therefore the important question is not only whether a substance can penetrate the skin, but what the exposure degree is and what is known about its safety at these levels.

Is natural fragrance safer than synthetic fragrance?

This is one of the most common perceptions in the skincare world.

We tend to think that if a substance comes from a flower, fruit, or plant, it is necessarily gentler and healthier.

But chemically, a natural source does not guarantee safety.

Essential oils and plant extracts can contain very active scent molecules.

Some are known as possible allergens.

For example, Limonene and Linalool are fragrance ingredients found naturally in various plants, but can also appear in fragrance mixtures.

When some of these compounds oxidize, their oxidation products may have increased allergenic potential.

Certain essential oils may also cause irritation, and in certain cases phototoxic reactions when they come into contact with the skin before sun exposure.

Therefore I would not recommend automatically replacing synthetic fragrance with essential oils out of the assumption they are safer.

What determines is not only whether the substance is natural or synthetic, but what the substance is, in what concentration it is used, and how suited it is to our skin and health condition.

What is the difference between Fragrance-Free and Unscented?

This is a difference worth knowing when choosing skincare products.

Fragrance-Free

Usually indicates the product was not formulated with fragrance ingredients intended to grant it a scent.

However, the term does not guarantee the product has no natural smell from the raw materials, or that it will not cause allergy for another reason.

Unscented

Such a product may contain fragrance substances whose purpose is to mask the smell of other ingredients.

Therefore a product defined as Unscented is not necessarily free of fragrance ingredients.

If you have sensitive skin or a known allergy to fragrance substances, it is worth preferring products marked Fragrance-Free and also checking the ingredient list.

It is important to know these terms too are not always defined or enforced the same way in every market.

Who should especially consider fragrance-free products?

Not everyone must avoid scented products.

There are women who use them for years without experiencing any irritation or response.

But there are situations in which choosing fragrance-free products may be especially helpful.

For example, when the skin is very sensitive, when eczema exists, when the skin barrier is damaged, or when a known allergy to fragrance ingredients exists.

Also after certain skin treatments, in which it is more sensitive, it is sometimes better to use gentle fragrance-free products.

In such situations the care routine should be adapted to the dermatologist's guidelines.

How can unnecessary exposure to fragrance substances be reduced?

I do not think the home should be turned into an environment free of all scent.

But it is worth being aware of the quantity of scent products we use.

Sometimes we do not notice how many fragrance sources exist around us.

Shampoo, conditioner, body cream, deodorant, perfume, laundry powder, fabric softener, cleaning spray, scent diffuser, and a scented candle.

Each product separately may look marginal, but together they create an environment very rich in fragrances.

If we want to reduce exposure, we can start with a few simple habits.

Choose fragrance-free skincare products when there is no need for it

Especially in products remaining on the skin for hours, if there is a tendency to sensitivity.

Reduce use of air fresheners

Not every room needs to be scented all day.

Ventilate the home

Suitable ventilation can help reduce accumulation of certain pollutants in indoor air, according to environmental conditions.

Choose laundry products suited to the skin

If itching or irritation appears after wearing laundered clothes, transitioning to fragrance-free laundry products should be considered.

Pay attention to the body's responses

If a certain product causes itching, burning, headache, or respiratory symptoms, it is worth stopping its use and evaluating the reason if needed.

Is a strongly scented product necessarily less healthy?

Not necessarily.

Scent intensity is not a reliable scientific measure of toxicity.

There are substances that can be smelled at very low concentrations, and there are substances that may be harmful even without a noticeable smell.

In addition, the scent intensity we experience depends on our personal sense of smell and the mixture composition.

Therefore it cannot be determined that a strongly scented product is necessarily dangerous, or that an almost odorless product is necessarily safe.

But when we choose skincare products, it is worth asking whether the fragrance is really needed by us.

If the goal is to grant moisture, support the skin barrier, or treat dryness, it can sometimes be achieved also without adding significant fragrance.

Our approach at OrOrgani

At OrOrgani we believe a skincare product should be examined first of all by its formula and its suitability to the skin's needs.

A pleasant scent can be part of the use experience, but it is not the main measure of quality.

I love looking at the ingredient list and trying to understand what each ingredient does.

Does it help maintain moisture?

Does it support the skin's protective barrier?

Is it suited to sensitive skin?

And does it contain ingredients not essential to the purpose for which the product was intended?

I also believe there is no need to fear chemistry.

Every substance, natural or synthetic, is a chemical substance.

The question is not whether a product contains chemicals, but which substances it contains, what is known about their safety, and how they are used.

In my eyes, wise consumerism begins with knowledge and not with fear.

In summary: A pleasant scent is an experience, not proof of safety

Fragrance products are part of our lives.

They are found in cosmetics, hair products, laundry, candles, and home products.

Some fragrance ingredients can cause allergy or skin irritation, and certain scent products can affect air quality or trigger symptoms in sensitive people.

But it is important to avoid generalizations.

Not every fragrance substance is dangerous, not every synthetic ingredient is harmful, and not every natural essential oil is safer.

The correct way is to know the ingredients, understand the skin's needs, and choose products consciously.

I believe a good product does not have to smell strong to be quality. Sometimes precisely the formula, texture, and feeling the product leaves on the skin are much more important than its fragrance.

One can enjoy pleasant scents.

And one can also choose less fragrance from time to time.

Not out of fear, but out of understanding of what we apply to the skin and what we bring into our home environment.

With love,
Nurit
OrOrgani

With love,
Nurit Rozenblat
OrOrgani

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