Fragrance: Is It Harmful To Your Health?

Fragrance is an umbrella term for a mix of chemicals that give personal care, cleaning, and other products their unique smell. While some fragrances are natural, most are synthetic and may contain harmful chemicals. The specific ingredients are often not listed on the label, as they are considered trade secrets. This lack of disclosure prevents consumers from knowing the full list of ingredients in their products.

Fragrance chemicals can cause a range of health issues, including allergies, migraines, asthma, gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems, and even cancer. They can also be harmful to the environment, as the chemical vapors in fragrance are known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause ozone pollution and form fine particulates.

To minimize exposure to fragrance chemicals, one can avoid products that list fragrance in the ingredients, opt for products with the EWG VERIFIED stamp, and enhance indoor air quality with houseplants, natural ventilation, or air purifiers.

Fragrance chemicals and health risks

The fragrance industry is largely self-regulated, and manufacturers are not required to list the ingredients that make up a fragrance on product labels. This means that consumers are often unaware of the specific chemicals they are being exposed to. While most fragrance chemicals are not disclosed, some are linked to serious health problems, including cancer, reproductive and developmental toxicity, allergies, and sensitivities.

Health Risks

The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) lists almost 3,059 different chemicals used in fragrance formulations, and many of these have been linked to adverse health effects. Fragrances are linked to a staggering number of health risks and are classified as allergens, hormone disruptors, asthma triggers, neurotoxins, and carcinogens. Fragrances commonly contain phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors that can cause a range of health problems, including cancer, reproductive and developmental toxicity, endocrine disruption, birth defects, respiratory problems, and lower sperm counts in men.

Environmental Risks

In addition to the health risks associated with fragrance chemicals, there are also environmental concerns. Chemical vapors found in fragrances, known as volatile organic compounds, have been linked to ozone pollution and the creation of fine particulates.

Regulation

There is a lack of government regulation of the fragrance industry, and the safety testing is not confirmed by regulators before products are sold to consumers. This has led to calls for stronger regulations, more research, and greater transparency in the industry.

Minimizing Exposure

To minimize potential exposure to harmful fragrance chemicals, consumers can take a few precautions, such as avoiding products labeled as "unscented" and always reading the full list of ingredients to spot potentially allergenic chemicals. Consulting databases like Skin Deep, which contains ratings for more than 90,000 products and ingredients, can also help consumers make more informed choices.

While fragrances can make products more appealing and enjoyable to use, it is important to be aware of the potential health and environmental risks associated with them. With the lack of regulation in the industry, it is up to consumers to be vigilant and informed about the products they are using.

Fragrance ingredients: a closer look

The term "fragrance" is used as an umbrella to describe a mix of thousands of potentially harmful chemicals. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) lists 3,059 materials used in fragrance compounds, while other sources put the number at over 3,500. These chemicals are often not disclosed to consumers and are instead protected as trade secrets.

Fragrance chemicals can be natural or synthetic. Synthetic fragrances are typically packed with a cocktail of synthetic chemicals, which can be detrimental to human health. Here is a closer look at some common fragrance ingredients and their potential health risks:

• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as acetaldehyde, ethanol, acetone, limonene, beta-pinene, and alpha-pinene. VOCs are a significant source of air quality issues and can cause respiratory problems.
• Parabens (e.g. methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl paraben) are used as preservatives in perfumes, shampoos, deodorants, and cosmetics, but they also have fungicidal and bactericidal properties.
• Phthalates, including diethyl phthalate (DEP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP), are used to make perfumes last longer. Phthalates have been associated with abnormal male reproductive development in infant boys and sperm damage in adult men.
• Synthetic musks, which mimic natural hormones, can disrupt the normal endocrine and biological processes. High levels of musk ketone and musk xylene have been linked to gynecological issues such as infertility and ovarian failure in women.
• Formaldehyde, benzene, and styrene, found in many scented products, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
• Essential oils, even though they are natural, can also cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.

These fragrance ingredients can enter the body through inhalation, skin absorption, and even ingestion, leading to a range of adverse health effects. In addition to the health risks, fragrance ingredients also contribute significantly to air and water pollution.

Health effects of fragrance exposure

The health effects of fragrance exposure can be both immediate and long-term, impacting various systems and organs in the body. Fragrance chemicals can enter the body through inhalation, skin absorption, and even ingestion, making their way into the bloodstream. Here are some of the adverse health effects associated with fragrance exposure:

Neurological Effects

Inhalation exposure to potentially harmful ingredients in fragrances is detected by receptors in the mouth, nose, and eyes. Since olfactory receptors are directly connected to the brain, it is no surprise that these toxic chemicals can affect brain function. Short-term exposure can lead to headaches, dizziness, and migraines. Animal studies have also linked specific fragrance chemicals to weakness, headaches, and reduced neurological pathways in the brain. Certain synthetic musks have been associated with brain cell degeneration, potentially increasing the risk of diseases like Parkinson's.

Respiratory Problems

Fragrance exposure can induce severe reactions in individuals with asthma, even at low concentrations. For many, a whiff of a scented air freshener can spark an asthma attack. Once these toxic ingredients enter the respiratory tract, they can cause a cascade of toxic effects, including airway irritation, inflammation, coughing, and difficulty breathing.

Reproductive System and Endocrine Disruption

There is increasing evidence that toxic chemicals in fragrances are endocrine disruptors, affecting the reproductive system and fertility. Fragrance mixtures may contain synthetic musks and phthalates, which can mimic natural hormones, disrupting the body's natural balance. Phthalates like diethyl phthalate (DEP) have been associated with abnormal male reproductive development in infant boys and sperm damage in adult men. High levels of certain synthetic musks have been linked to gynecological issues such as infertility and ovarian failure in women.

Cancer Risks

Fragrances often contain hidden carcinogens. Parabens, formaldehyde, benzene, and styrene, commonly found in scented products, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. A 2010 study by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that 14 out of 17 popular perfumes at the time contained carcinogens.

Allergies and Skin Conditions

Fragrance allergies impact up to 11% of the global population. Fragrance can sensitize the skin, meaning repeated exposure can lead to the development of a fragrance allergy. Cross-sensitization can also occur, where exposure to one substance leads to an allergic reaction to another. Once sensitized, further exposure can cause worsened reactions, including an immune response and severe allergies like contact dermatitis, a skin condition causing swelling, itching, and redness. Fragrances are a leading cause of cosmetic contact dermatitis, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Studies show that children aged 5-15 commonly have allergic reactions to parabens, potassium dichromate (used in tanning and painting), and perfume.

Environmental Impact

Fragrance-containing products emit over ten volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, affecting public health and contributing to air pollution. These toxic chemical compounds are absorbed by the ocean, soil, and greenery, and current water treatment techniques cannot effectively remove them, causing build-up in aquatic ecosystems. They are referred to as 'persistent organic pollutants' and can be deadly to wildlife, disrupting the food chain.

The impact of fragrance on the environment

Fragrances are made up of a mix of chemicals—both natural and synthetic—that give personal care, cleaning, and other products their unique smell. However, these fragrances can have a significant impact on the environment. Here are some key ways in which fragrance affects the environment:

Ingredients and Sourcing

The ingredients used in fragrances can have environmental repercussions. Natural ingredients, such as floral and botanical extracts, can lead to issues like overharvesting and habitat disruption. Synthetic ingredients, on the other hand, are often derived from petrochemicals, which are resource-intensive to produce and contribute to pollution. Sustainable sourcing and ethical harvesting practices are crucial to mitigate these concerns.

Production and Carbon Emissions

The production and distribution of fragrances contribute to carbon emissions. From the cultivation of raw materials to manufacturing and transportation, the fragrance industry leaves a carbon footprint. Some companies are working to minimize their environmental impact, but many still have a long way to go. Opting for brands committed to eco-friendly production methods and sustainable supply chains can help reduce carbon emissions.

Packaging Waste

Fragrances often come in elaborate packaging, including non-recyclable materials and single-use boxes and plastic components, which can end up in landfills and contribute to environmental pollution. Brands embracing minimalist and eco-conscious packaging designs can help reduce waste.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Chemical vapors in fragrances, known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can cause ozone pollution and form fine particulates in the air. VOCs contribute to air pollution and can be harmful to both the environment and human health. They have been linked to respiratory issues and can exacerbate asthma and other lung conditions.

Water Contamination

Fragrance ingredients often end up in wastewater, leading to water contamination. Some compounds in perfumes can disrupt the hormonal systems of aquatic organisms, affecting their reproductive behaviours and overall health. Additionally, improper disposal of fragrances can lead to soil pollution, as chemicals can leach into the soil and affect plant life and potentially enter the food chain.

Impact on Wildlife

Many synthetic fragrances contain substances that are toxic to animals and can interfere with their reproductive systems. Pollutants from personal care products, including perfumes, can lead to adverse effects on wildlife, disrupting ecosystems and biodiversity.

Regulation of fragrance ingredients and safety issues

Fragrance mixtures used in cleaning products and other scented consumer products are primarily made up of synthetic chemical ingredients. There are over 3,000 fragrance chemicals in use today, and exposure to some of these substances can lead to a wide range of health problems. However, companies are not required to disclose the individual ingredients that make up a product's fragrance. This is because fragrance ingredients are considered trade secrets and are protected as such.

In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates fragrance ingredients as cosmetics if they are in a cosmetic product and are meant to provide scent. The FDA does not approve or test cosmetic products, including fragrances, before they are available for sale. Manufacturers are legally responsible for ensuring product safety when used as intended. The FDA can and will test products and issue recalls when necessary.

The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) develop and set voluntary standards for chemicals in the "fragrance" component of products. The US, Canada, and Europe rely on IFRA and RIFM to identify ingredients for use in fragrance. In effect, this means the international fragrance industry is self-regulating.

In the EU, the fragrance industry is one of the most heavily regulated consumer goods industries. The IFRA publishes a Code of Practice, which is a set of voluntary standards for manufacturers of fragrance. However, compliance with the IFRA standards on prohibited and restricted fragrance chemicals is voluntary for manufacturers, and there is little to no enforcement of these standards internationally.

Some fragrance ingredients are known to be toxic and are linked to serious health problems such as cancer, reproductive and developmental toxicity, allergies, and sensitivities. For example, diethyl phthalate (DEP), a common fragrance ingredient, is an irritant of the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract and is a potential endocrine disruptor. Another fragrance chemical, styrene, is linked to cancer.

In addition to "scent" chemicals, perfumes and colognes also contain solvents, stabilizers, UV-absorbers, preservatives, and dyes. These additives are frequently, but not always, listed on product labels.

To protect yourself from potentially harmful fragrance chemicals, you can:

• Read the label on the product and avoid products that only list "fragrance" without providing further details on the ingredients.
• Consult databases like Skin Deep, which contains ratings for more than 90,000 products and ingredients used in a wide range of personal care product categories.
• Look for products that bear the EWG VERIFIED mark, which means the product is free from EWG chemicals of concern.

Frequently asked questions