"The word "fragrance" or "parfum" on the product label represents an undisclosed mixture of various scent chemicals and ingredients used as fragrance dispersants, such as diethyl phthalate. Fragrance mixes have been associated with allergies, dermatitis, respiratory distress and potential effects on the reproductive system" (EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database)

Say, What?  Is this stuff really in most of my skincare and personal care products?  Afraid so. Here's why you should care.....

"U.K researchers have reported that “perfume” is the second most common cause of allergy in patients at dermatology clinics".

Fragrance ingredients (which are considered "trade secrets" and according to the Fragrance industry, can contain around 3000 chemicals) deliver the scent through a volatile reaction. This can cause a sensitizing reaction on the skin. Research establishes that fragrances in skincare are the most common cause of negative skin reactions. Just because you can't see a difference in your skin, doesn't mean that you haven't experienced skin damage. Think of it this way. Sun damage, as well reported, causes damage to the skin right away. However, we may not see evidence of this for years because the damage is cumulative. The fear is that chemicals in fragrance can cause cumulative damage as well.

Some ingredients have a pleasant fragrance but do not cause skin to be irritated. Vanilla, cucumber, mango, honey, shea butter, cocoa butter, guava fruit, just to name a few. Check the label on your product to make sure these are the "real deal" and not "Fragrance, Fragrance Oil, FO, Parfum, Perfume", etc.

 If you detect a fragrance in our skincare line, it is how the raw material (like our Cold Pressed Oils) smell in their natural state. We do not add fragrance of any kind to our products, because fragrance simply does not benefit your skin.

So, if taking care of your skin is important to you, then avoid highly scented products. Once you see and feel the difference in your skin, you probably won't miss it.

sources:
poster/Dr. Axe.com

EWG's Skin Deep Cosmetics Database  ewg.org

davidsuzuki.org