Fragrances play a significant role in cosmetic products, from perfumes and colognes to shampoos, lotions, and soap. However, not all fragrances are created equal, and it's essential to understand the different types of fragrances used in these products to keep your body and home free from toxic chemicals.
There are four main types of fragrances used in cosmetic products: parfum, fragrance oils, natural fragrance, and essential oils.
Parfum/Fragrance
Parfum is a type of fragrance that is composed of a high concentration of aromatic compounds. It is the most potent type of fragrance used in cosmetic products and can contain up to 30% of the fragrance oils.
Parfum is made up of a combination of synthetic and natural ingredients, and can last up to 24 hours on the skin. Because of the FDA’s Fair Package and Labeling Act, manufacturers are not required to reveal the lengthy list of chemicals hidden in their ‘fragrance’ ingredient in order to protect trade secrets. This means there can be hundreds of toxic ingredients hiding in these skincare products without consumer knowledge.
Chemical fragrances are known to cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. These fragrances can cause redness, itching, and swelling, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Chemical fragrances can also trigger respiratory issues, such as asthma and allergies. When inhaled, these fragrances can cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This is because some fragrances contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can irritate the respiratory system.
Hormone disruption is also a great concern for synthetic fragrances. These fragrances contain phthalates, which are used to make fragrances last longer. Phthalates can mimic hormones in our bodies, specifically estrogen, leading to hormonal imbalances. These imbalances can have a range of effects, from reproductive issues to thyroid problems.
Chemical fragrances can also contribute to environmental pollution. When we use cosmetic products containing chemical fragrances, these fragrances can be washed down the drain and end up in our waterways. These fragrances can then harm aquatic life and even contaminate our drinking water.
Fragrance Oils
Fragrance oils are synthetic oils that are created in a lab. They are made up of a combination of synthetic aroma chemicals, carrier oils, and natural essential oils.
Fragrance oils are often used in cosmetic products because they are less expensive than natural essential oils and can be customized to create a unique scent. Just like chemical fragrance, fragrance oils are also hormone disruptors and contain phthalates.
Fragrance oils are often used to trick consumers into thinking they are naturally derived by containing the word “oil,” causing one to think they are essential oils instead of chemical fragrance. Unlike essential oils, fragrance oils do not have any therapeutic benefits and are not used in aromatherapy.
Natural Fragrance
Natural fragrances are made up of natural aromatic ingredients, such as essential oils, plant extracts, and resins. They are considered a more natural alternative to synthetic fragrances, making them a popular choice for consumers looking for natural and organic cosmetic products.
Natural fragrances are often used in skincare products, such as shampoos and soaps. While they are made from naturally derived plant material, they are complex and often require professional perfumists to formulate them. Similar to synthetic fragrances, they are proprietary blends protected under the trade secret law so you may not know everything in the scent blend. This can be problematic as these 'natural fragrances' are allowed to have trace amounts of synthetic ingredients like solvents and preservatives.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are natural oils that are extracted from plants. They are made by distilling or cold-pressing different parts of a plant, such as the leaves, flowers, or roots. Essential oils have a concentrated aroma and are often used in aromatherapy and other natural health practices because they have therapeutic benefits.
Essential oils come in a range of scents, from calming lavender to invigorating peppermint. They can be used in cosmetic products to add scent, but they are also used for their therapeutic benefits. For example, eucalyptus essential oil is known for its soothing properties and is often used for antibacterial purposes.
In conclusion, fragrances play a vital role in cosmetic products, and it's essential to understand the different types of fragrances used in these products to protect your health. Avoid any product with the ingredients ‘parfum,’ ‘fragrance,’ or ‘fragrance oil.’ These are synthetic and contain lots of hidden toxic ingredients which are harmful to your health. When selecting products for your body and home, opt for natural fragrances and essential oils.
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