The Truth About Fragrance in Cosmetics
The clean beauty industry is increasingly avoiding the use of fragrance in cosmetics. But why? The main issue is a lack of transparency. When you see "fragrance" or "parfum" listed in a cosmetic's ingredients, it's important to understand that this is an umbrella term covering potentially hundreds of hidden ingredients. Some of these hidden ingredients can be endocrine disruptors, such as phthalates, and may also include potential allergens.
The Hidden Risks of Fragrance in Cosmetics
- Lack of Transparency: The term "fragrance" can hide a multitude of ingredients. Due to "trade secret" protections, companies are not required to disclose all the components of a fragrance. This means you might see only one ingredient (fragrance) listed, but in reality, there could be hundreds of chemicals involved just to create a scent.
- Endocrine Disruptors: Some of these hidden ingredients are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as phthalates. EDCs can interfere with hormone function, potentially leading to reproductive, developmental, and other health issues.
- Skin Irritation and Sensitization: Many ingredients used in fragrances can cause skin irritation or sensitization. This can lead to increased inflammation, making the skin more reactive and sensitive over time.
Do We Have to Avoid Scented Products?
The good news is that avoiding traditional fragrances doesn't mean you have to forgo pleasant scents altogether. There are products with wonderful aromas that don't rely on synthetic fragrances. These products derive their scents from natural ingredients included in their formulations.
Brands Making a Difference
While some brands do incorporate fragrance into their cosmetics, there are those that take a different, more transparent approach. For instance, the natural deodorant from Corpus includes "fragrance" in its ingredients list. However, this brand has been verified to use only a select few natural essential oils and isolates to create their unique scents.
We work only with brands and we verify that their fragrances consist exclusively of natural ingredients and limit the number of components to avoid potential irritation. The commitment to transparency and safety are part of our checklist to bring a new brand to our curation.
Educating Consumers for Safer Choices
As consumers, it's crucial to be informed about the potential risks associated with traditional fragrances, especially when the contents of those fragrances are not disclosed. By choosing products from brands committed to transparency and natural ingredients, you can enjoy delightful scents without compromising your health.
In conclusion, while traditional fragrances in cosmetics pose risks due to hidden ingredients and potential health impacts, there are safer alternatives available.