Heidi Norton
Perfume and other fragranced products are widely used, but they can have negative health effects. Fragrances can contain over 3,500 chemicals, including toxic chemicals that can cause short- and long-term health issues. These chemicals are rarely listed on product labels, as manufacturers are not required to disclose them. Common reactions to fragrances include coughing, sneezing, migraines, and respiratory problems. Fragrances have also been linked to more serious health issues, including cancer and endocrine disruption, particularly in Black women and children. Some studies suggest that exposure to fragrances during pregnancy and after birth may cause neurological disorders in the fetus and increase the risk of autism. To reduce potential health risks, consumers can use resources such as the Environmental Working Group's databases and apps to choose safer products and avoid exposure to harmful chemicals.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Allergies | Paraben, Potassium Dichromate, Perfume |
| Neurological disorders in fetus of pregnant mothers | Autism |
| Emission of VOCs | More than 100 volatile organic compounds |
| Inflammatory reaction | Coughing, Sneezing |
| Long-term health effects | Migraines, Respiratory problems |
| Harmful chemicals | Diethyl phthalate, Terpenes, Formaldehyde |
| Fragrance ingredients | More than 3,500 chemicals |
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What You'll Learn
Allergies and sensitivities
Fragrance sensitivity is a common condition where your airways are irritated by ingredients or chemicals in natural or manufactured scents. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, or itchy eyes. Fragrance sensitivity can happen to anyone but is more likely if you have asthma or allergies. Symptoms of fragrance sensitivity generally develop within minutes of exposure to a scent.
A true perfume allergy happens when an organic protein in a perfume ingredient causes an inflammatory response in your body. This type of allergy is less common than sensitivity, as most reactions people experience are simply due to perfume sensitivities. Symptoms of a perfume allergy include rashes, headaches, and sneezing. In rare cases, a person can develop anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be dangerous.
It can be difficult to identify the specific allergen causing your reaction, as fragrance manufacturers are not required to list all the chemicals they use on the product packaging. Even products labelled as "unscented" or "fragrance-free" may still contain fragrance components to cover up naturally occurring offensive odours in a product.
If you experience allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, it is best to avoid the offending fragrances altogether. This can be challenging, especially if you live or interact with individuals who use fragrances. You can also try to avoid public areas where people usually apply perfume, keep a small air purifier near your workspace, and ask those around you to avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes.
To identify your specific allergy triggers, you can undergo contact allergen testing, such as patch tests, which expose you to small quantities of different allergens. Once you know your triggers, you can avoid fragrances containing those chemicals.
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding
While some sources claim that it is safe to use perfumes during pregnancy, there are concerns about the potential health risks associated with certain chemicals commonly found in perfumes, such as phthalates, parabens, and synthetic musks. These chemicals are known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and can interfere with the body's natural hormonal balance, potentially leading to health issues such as obesity, neurodivergence, PCOS, thyroid disorders, and cancers. Studies have also suggested a link between phthalate exposure during pregnancy and preterm birth, although the data is not conclusive.
During pregnancy, it is advisable to be cautious about exposure to these chemicals, and some healthcare professionals recommend choosing perfumes labelled as "phthalate-free" or "fragrance-free." It is also recommended to use natural perfumes or those with all-natural ingredients, as some strong chemicals can be absorbed by the skin and may have unknown effects on the developing fetus. Additionally, some pregnant women experience a heightened sense of smell, making them more sensitive to strong fragrances, which can trigger nausea, vomiting, tiredness, headaches, and trouble breathing.
When it comes to breastfeeding, it is important to avoid synthetic scents as fat-soluble toxins can be stored in fatty deposits around the body, including breast milk, and passed on to the baby. To reduce the risk of exposing the baby to these toxins, it is recommended to avoid all forms of synthetic scents, including perfumes, room sprays, candles, and soaps.
Some natural ingredients that should be avoided during pregnancy include sage, clary sage, basil, and jasmine, as these extracts can help regulate the menstrual cycle. Instead, some popular softer scents during pregnancy include lavender, rose, chamomile, sweet orange, neroli, and mandarin.
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Indoor air quality
The use of fragrances, such as perfumes, air fresheners, and scented candles, can have a significant impact on indoor air quality and, subsequently, human health.
Fragrances are formulated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are released into the air as chemical vapours. These compounds include benzene, phthalates, formaldehyde, parabens, and more. VOCs can have adverse effects on human health, including respiratory issues, such as coughing, sneezing, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. They can also cause headaches and even more severe issues like kidney, liver, and nervous system damage, and potentially cancer. In addition, fragrances can worsen existing conditions, such as asthma, and cause allergic reactions.
The burning of scented candles and incense sticks produces a mix of toxic gases, including carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, and oxides of nitrogen, as well as particulate matter. Particulate matter can increase the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic bronchitis with long-term exposure.
It is important to note that even ""natural" or "green" fragrances can emit significant levels of VOCs, and essential oils, while natural, are highly concentrated. Therefore, it is recommended to choose unscented options or fragrance products with transparent ingredient lists to improve indoor air quality and protect your health.
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Hormone disruption
The potential impact of perfumes on human health has been a topic of discussion and research, with some studies suggesting that certain ingredients in fragrances may have short-term and long-term effects on our bodies. One of the concerns that has emerged is the possibility of hormone disruption.
The idea that perfumes can disrupt hormones has gained traction, especially with the rise of "'clean'" beauty and skincare movements. These movements have brought attention to certain ingredients, such as parabens and sulphates, which are claimed to be "endocrine disruptors." Endocrine disruptors are substances believed to interfere with the body's hormonal system, potentially impacting a range of functions, including weight, mood, and fertility.
However, it is important to note that the concept of perfume as an endocrine disruptor is controversial. Dermatologists and cosmetic chemists have stated that there is no solid evidence to support the claim that perfume ingredients disrupt hormones or pose a significant risk to our health. They argue that the doses used in lab studies are much higher than what people typically use, and that the presence of certain ingredients, such as phthalates, is minimal in perfume formulas.
Despite these reassurances, some people remain cautious about the potential impact of perfumes on their hormone health. This concern is fuelled by the lack of transparency in the fragrance industry, particularly in the United States, where manufacturers are not required to disclose all the ingredients used in their products. The term "'fragrance'" on a label can encompass numerous chemicals, making it challenging for consumers to make informed choices.
To address these concerns, some individuals opt for products labelled "phthalate-free," "paraben-free," or "BPA-free." Natural alternatives, such as essential oils and botanical extracts, are also gaining popularity. However, it is worth noting that even natural fragrances can contain compounds that may have an impact on health, and the clean beauty industry has been accused of fear-mongering to drive profits.
While the extent of the impact of perfumes on hormone health remains uncertain, it is always advisable to be mindful of any sensitivities or allergies one may have and to choose products that suit individual needs and preferences.
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Long-term health effects
While the occasional use of perfumes may not cause any long-term health issues for most people, there are concerns about the potential long-term effects of chronic exposure to fragrance chemicals.
Fragrances can contain a mix of more than 3,500 chemicals, many of which are toxic and can cause a range of health issues. These chemicals are often not listed on the product labels, as manufacturers are not required to disclose them, and they are considered trade secrets. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for consumers to make informed choices and avoid potential health risks.
One of the main concerns with fragrance chemicals is their ability to disrupt the endocrine system. Endocrine disruptors can interfere with the body's hormones, leading to a range of health issues, including reproductive problems, metabolic disorders, and even certain types of cancer. Studies have found that exposure to these chemicals, especially at a young age, could be linked to health disparities between different populations. For example, a 2018 study by the Silent Spring Institute found high levels of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in African American hair products, which could contribute to health disparities between Black and White women.
Another concern is the potential for fragrance chemicals to cause neurological disorders. Studies have shown that even small amounts of perfume can cause neurological issues in the fetus of pregnant mothers, and exposure to chemicals during pregnancy and after birth through breast milk has been linked to autism.
Additionally, fragrances can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can pose a serious threat to human health. These compounds can irritate and disrupt our airways and have other negative health effects. They are small enough to enter our bloodstreams through the lungs when we inhale fragrances, and they can also penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream this way.
While the long-term health effects of perfume exposure may not be fully understood yet, it is clear that fragrances can contain toxic chemicals that can lead to a range of health issues. To reduce potential health risks, consumers can choose products bearing the EWG VERIFIED® mark, which indicates that a product is free from toxic chemicals and meets strict transparency standards.
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Frequently asked questions
Perfumes are made of a mix of fragrance chemicals, which number over 3,500. These chemicals are rarely listed on the ingredients label as manufacturers are not required to disclose them.
Fragrance chemicals have been linked to a range of health issues, including migraines, respiratory problems, and even chronic issues like cancer. They can also cause short- and long-term health effects, especially for those with allergies or sensitivities, or pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD.
Fragrances can enter the body through the skin and the bloodstream. They can also be inhaled, which can cause coughing and sneezing due to an inflammatory reaction.
Potential health risks associated with wearing perfume include allergies, headaches, skin irritation, and hormonal issues. Perfumes can also cause neurological disorders in the fetus of pregnant mothers and may be a cause of autism.
To reduce exposure, avoid highly fragranced environments and wear a mask if you're sensitive to fragrances or have an underlying condition. Consult resources like Skin Deep, which rates over 90,000 products and ingredients, and look for products bearing the EWG VERIFIED mark, which are free from toxic chemicals.
