Heidi Norton
Eczema is a complicated skin condition that can be triggered by a variety of factors, including certain ingredients in cosmetics and skincare products. Fragrances are among the most common eczema irritants, with both synthetic and natural fragrances having the potential to aggravate sensitive skin and trigger flare-ups. This makes finding suitable skincare products and cosmetics challenging for those with eczema, as fragrances are prevalent in many products, from lotions and soaps to detergents and cosmetics.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effect of fragrance on eczema | Fragrance can trigger eczema, cause itchiness, flare-ups, and redness |
| Types of fragrances to avoid | Synthetic fragrances, natural fragrances, organic fragrances, essential oils, and "unscented" products |
| Fragrance-containing products to avoid | Deodorants, perfumes, colognes, body sprays, soaps, detergents, shampoos, conditioners, shaving gels, household cleaning products, topical pharmaceuticals |
| Safe alternatives | Natural and organic perfumes without chemicals, products marked "safe for sensitive skin", "fragrance-free" products |
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What You'll Learn
Fragrance-free products are best
Fragrances are a common skin allergen, and for those with eczema, the effects can be even more unpleasant. Fragrances can cause itchiness, flare-ups, and redness. According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), 8% to 15% of eczema patients have a fragrance allergy, and fragrance accounts for up to 40% of allergic reactions from cosmetics.
The NEA no longer considers products with scents for its Seal of Acceptance Program. This is because scented products, including perfumes, colognes, body sprays, and deodorants, can contain a variety of chemicals that can irritate the skin. These chemicals can also disrupt the natural balance of bacteria on the skin, which can lead to infection.
Even products labeled "unscented" may still contain fragrance ingredients to neutralize the smell of other ingredients. So, it is best to look for products that are labeled "fragrance-free." However, be aware that some companies use scents to mask the unpleasant odors of other ingredients in their "fragrance-free" products.
To avoid potential irritants, choose products marked "safe for sensitive skin" or "fragrance-free." When in doubt, consult a dermatologist for advice on the best skincare routine for your eczema.
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Natural fragrances can also irritate skin
While synthetic fragrances are particularly problematic for eczema-prone skin, natural or organic products that contain scents may also aggravate your skin. According to dermatologist Dr Jeff Yu, "Contrary to popular belief, natural fragrances are equally as likely to cause allergies as synthetic fragrances".
Natural fragrances can contain essential oils, which are a common skin irritant, and can cause itchiness, flare-ups, and redness. Tea tree oil, for instance, is a natural superhero, but it can be a powerful skin irritant for some. Botanical oils or other herbal ingredients can also lead to skin sensitivity, such as rose oil, vanilla, and sweet almond oil.
The National Eczema Association (NEA) reports that 8% to 15% of eczema patients have a fragrance allergy. With fragrance accounting for up to 40% of allergic reactions from cosmetics, the NEA no longer considers products with scents for its Seal of Acceptance Program.
It is important to note that even products labelled "unscented" or "fragrance-free" may still contain a masking" fragrance to neutralise the smell of other ingredients. Therefore, it is best to choose products that are labelled "safe for sensitive skin" or "fragrance-free" to limit your exposure to potential irritants.
Additionally, scented products can contain a variety of chemicals that can irritate the skin and disrupt the natural balance of bacteria on the skin, leading to infection.
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Scented products can cause contact eczema
Fragrances are added to products to make them smell good and sometimes to mask the odour of other unpleasant-smelling ingredients. Synthetic fragrances are particularly problematic, but natural or organic scented products can also aggravate the skin. According to dermatologist Dr Jeff Yu, "Contrary to popular belief, natural fragrances are equally as likely to cause allergies as synthetic fragrances." For example, tea tree oil is a natural fragrance, but it is also a common skin irritant.
The modern lifestyle has made it nearly impossible to avoid perfume or fragrance exposure. Scented chemicals are found in deodorants, cosmetics, personal care products (soaps, shampoos, conditioners, shaving gels), household cleaning products, topical pharmaceuticals, and even in the workplace via manufacturing ingredients.
To avoid contact eczema caused by scented products, it is best to choose products that are labelled "fragrance-free" rather than "unscented." This is because "unscented" products may still contain fragrance ingredients to neutralise the smell of other ingredients.
Additionally, it is important to note that even if a product is truly fragrance-free, it may still contain other ingredients that can irritate the skin, such as methylparaben and butylparaben, which are common preservatives in cosmetics and other products.
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Avoid soaps and detergents with fragrances
If you have eczema, it is best to avoid using scented products, including soaps and detergents, to keep your skin in good condition. According to dermatologist Dr Jeff Yu, "fragrances are added to make products smell delightful and sometimes to cover the odour of unpleasant ingredients (a so-called 'masking fragrance')".
Fragrances are a common allergen, and many patients with sensitive skin can react to them. In fact, the National Eczema Association (NEA) reports that 8% to 15% of eczema patients have a fragrance allergy. With fragrance accounting for up to 40% of allergic reactions from cosmetics, the NEA no longer considers products with scents for its Seal of Acceptance Program.
While it can be tempting to invest in soaps and detergents with pleasant smells, fragrances are notoriously harsh for those with sensitive skin. Fragrances can cause itchiness, flare-ups, and redness. These scented products can contain a variety of chemicals that can irritate the skin. In addition to causing irritation, these chemicals can also disrupt the natural balance of bacteria on the skin, which can lead to infection.
To limit your exposure to potential irritants, look for products marked "safe for sensitive skin" or "fragrance-free". While "unscented" products may be an option, they may still contain a "'masking' fragrance" to neutralise the smell of other ingredients.
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Fragrances are a common skin allergen
Fragrances can cause itchiness, flare-ups, and redness for those with eczema. They can also disrupt the natural balance of bacteria on the skin, leading to potential infections. Synthetic fragrances, such as galaxolide (a synthetic musk) and diethyl phthalate, are particularly problematic for those with eczema. These chemicals are added to help the skin absorb the fragrance and make it last longer. However, they increase the skin's vulnerability due to the excessive absorption of chemicals, alcohols, and petroleum.
Natural or organic fragrances, such as tea tree oil, rose oil, vanilla, and sweet almond oil, can also aggravate eczema. These "botanical oils or other herbal ingredients can lead to skin sensitivity," according to Dr. Garshick. Even products labeled "unscented" or "fragrance-free" may still contain masking fragrances to neutralize the smell of other ingredients.
To limit exposure to potential irritants, those with eczema should look for products marked ""safe for sensitive skin" or "fragrance-free." Hypoallergenic scented products that are free from fragrances, dyes, and other potential irritants can be used, but it is best to avoid applying them directly to the skin. Instead, they can be applied to clothing or hair.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, fragrances are a common skin allergen and can cause itchiness, flare-ups, and redness for those with eczema. It is best to avoid using scented products altogether and opt for products that are labelled "fragrance-free".
Scented products such as perfumes, colognes, body sprays, deodorants, soaps, detergents, shampoos, conditioners, shaving gels, cosmetics, and household cleaning products can all contain fragrances that may irritate the skin.
Contrary to popular belief, natural fragrances are equally as likely to cause allergies as synthetic fragrances.
Avoiding irritants like soaps, detergents, dust mites, animal dander, mould, certain fabrics (such as wool and synthetic materials like nylon), and hot showers can help prevent eczema flare-ups.
