Heidi Norton
Many people enjoy fragranced hair products, such as shampoos, conditioners, and hair mists, as hair holds scent well. However, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers of these products. Fragrances can contain harmful chemicals, such as phthalates, which are linked to various health issues, including endocrine disruption, reduced sperm count, and cancer. Some fragrances may also contain irritants or allergens. While natural fragrances, such as essential oils, are unlikely to cause harm, artificial fragrances may negatively impact health. To avoid potential risks, consumers can opt for fragrance-free or hypoallergenic products or choose fragranced products that use natural ingredients.
Characteristics of Fragrance in Hair Care Products
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To make hair smell amazing and to mask bad odors of certain ingredients |
| Health Impact | Can do more harm than good in the long run due to the presence of harmful chemicals |
| Types | Natural fragrances (essential oils) and artificial fragrances |
| Labeling | Listed as "fragrance" in the US and "parfum" in the EU; "unscented" and "fragrance-free" are not the same |
| Health Conditions | Can trigger migraines, allergies, asthma, chronic lung disease, and other health issues |
| Safety | Fragrance formulations are not required to be listed due to being considered "trade secrets" |
| Alternatives | Fragrance-free products, natural fragrances, or hypoallergenic alternatives |
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What You'll Learn
The dangers of fragrance in hair products
The use of fragrance in cosmetic products has raised concerns about its effects on hair and skin, particularly scalp health. While the presence of fragrance in hair care products is not inherently dangerous, individuals with sensitive skin or specific dermatological conditions should exercise caution. The impact of an allergic reaction to fragrance in hair products can be varied and, in some cases, extensive.
Undisclosed Ingredients
Manufacturers are not legally required to list the specific components of their fragrances, as this is considered proprietary information to protect from copycats. As a result, products that contain fragrance will only list them as 'fragrance' or perfume on the ingredients list. Over 3,000 chemicals used to create fragrances are hidden under these labels. Some fragrances could include phthalates to make the smell last longer. Phthalates are a group of harmful chemicals known for their endocrine-disrupting effects. Due to undisclosed fragrance ingredient information, phthalates in fragrance formulations are not required to be listed either.
Synthetic Fragrances
Synthetic fragrances are created from various chemicals and solvents in laboratories. They are more likely to cause discomfort or sensitization than natural fragrances. Synthetic fragrances, in particular, have been identified as potential allergens in some studies.
Health Impact
Prolonged exposure to certain fragrances can worsen some health problems. Artificial fragrances are often harmful, while natural fragrances are unlikely to cause any damage. There are suggestions that a buildup of artificial chemicals in the body can create an environment conducive to cancer. Fragrance-induced reactions can worsen pre-existing scalp conditions, like psoriasis, and have been associated with non-scarring temporary hair loss.
Alternatives
If you opt for scented shampoos, choose products that use natural fragrances like essential oils. Fragrance-free shampoos cause minimal damage to hair and scalp.
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The difference between unscented and fragrance-free
While the terms "unscented" and "fragrance-free" may seem interchangeable, there are significant differences between the two. Fragrances are added to hair products to make them more appealing to consumers and to create a recognisable scent for the brand. However, these fragrances can cause adverse reactions in some individuals, leading to allergies, respiratory issues, and other health problems. Understanding the difference between "unscented" and "fragrance-free" is crucial for consumers, especially those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Unscented products are formulated to have no smell. However, they can still contain ingredients with a scent that has been neutralised by other components. In other words, unscented products might have fragrances or masking scents added to cover the odour of the raw ingredients. These masking ingredients can include chemicals that eliminate odours, making the product seem scent-free. For example, a product containing lavender may have a chemical added to mask the scent, allowing it to be labelled as "unscented." This distinction is important because individuals allergic to lavender may still react to the product, even if they cannot detect the scent.
On the other hand, fragrance-free products do not contain any added fragrances or masking scents. They are free from ingredients that are included solely for their fragrance. However, they may still have a smell derived from other ingredients, such as essential oils or aromatic extracts. For instance, a cream made with coconut oil can still be labelled as fragrance-free because the oil is included for its emollient properties, not its scent.
It is worth noting that the terms "unscented" and "fragrance-free" are not legally defined, and corporations can interpret them loosely. Additionally, the lack of regulation in the cosmetics industry means that even products labelled as "fragrance-free" may still contain fragrance compounds. This lack of regulation can make it challenging for consumers to find truly fragrance-free products, especially those with allergies or sensitive skin.
In conclusion, the key difference between "unscented" and "fragrance-free" lies in the presence of masking scents or chemicals used to neutralise odours. While "unscented" products aim to eliminate any scent, "fragrance-free" products do not contain ingredients added solely for their fragrance, even if they possess a natural scent from other ingredients. Understanding this distinction is essential for consumers, especially those with allergies or skin sensitivities, to make informed choices when selecting hair or cosmetic products.
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How to add fragrance to your hair without damaging it
While hair holds scent well, it is important to be cautious about the ingredients in your hair care products to prevent damage to your hair and scalp. Artificial fragrances and chemicals in perfumes and scented shampoos can be harmful to your hair in the long run.
- Use hair mists or hair perfumes: Unlike commercial perfumes, hair mists and hair perfumes are specifically designed to be used on hair and can add fragrance without causing damage.
- Spray perfume into the air: Instead of spraying perfume directly onto your hair, spray it into the air and walk through it. This will help alleviate the impact of alcohol on your hair and prevent it from becoming saturated.
- Spray perfume onto your brush: Another option is to spray perfume onto your brush before running it through your hair. This will lightly scent your hair and help prevent damage from alcohol.
- Use natural fragrances: Opt for scented shampoos and conditioners that use natural fragrances like essential oils instead of artificial fragrances. You can even make your own hair perfume by mixing essential oils with carrier oils like jojoba oil, which closely mimics the scalp's natural sebum.
- Choose "fragrance-free" products: "Fragrance-free" products do not contain any form of fragrance, including artificial and natural scents. This is different from "unscented" products, which may still contain functional fragrances to mask unpleasant odors. By choosing fragrance-free options, you can avoid the potential harm caused by undisclosed fragrance ingredients.
Remember, while adding fragrance to your hair can make it smell amazing, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients and their potential effects on your hair and scalp health.
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The chemicals in fragrances and their effects
Fragrances in hair products are used to apply an attractive scent to the products we use every day. However, these fragrances often contain artificial ingredients that are harmful not only to hair but also to overall health.
It is important to note that there is a difference between cosmetic products that are labelled "unscented" and those that are labelled "fragrance-free". "Unscented" means that only the aromatic fragrances intended to give nice smells are excluded from the formula. "Unscented" products may still contain functional fragrances used to mask the unpleasant odours of some ingredients. "Fragrance-free" means that the product doesn't contain any form of fragrance, including artificial and natural scents such as essential oils.
There are over 3,000 chemicals used to create fragrances that are hidden on the label as "fragrance" or "perfume". Some fragrances could include phthalates to make the smell last longer. Phthalates are a group of harmful chemicals known for their endocrine-disrupting effects, and they are currently under investigation for their impact on the human endocrine system. Research suggests that chronic exposure to phthalates may disrupt hormone signalling and cause damage to the reproductive system. They have also been linked to early deaths from cardiovascular disease.
Other chemicals found in fragrances include PEG, a petroleum byproduct that works as a thickening agent in hair care products. While research on the toxicity of PEG is inconclusive, scientists are investigating a possible link between PEG use and severe scalp irritation and skin damage. Triclosan is another chemical found in shampoo as an antibacterial agent. It was previously used in soaps until a 2016 FDA ban went into effect. Triclosan is a hormone disruptor that can cause decreases in thyroid hormones upon exposure to high doses.
Natural fragrances from sources such as essential oils are unlikely to cause any damage, but artificial fragrances may have a negative impact on health. There are suggestions that a buildup of artificial chemicals in the body can create an environment conducive to cancer. Fragrance molecules may trigger various acute and chronic pathological conditions, such as neural disturbances (e.g. headaches, depression, and migraines), skin and airway hypersensitivity, breast cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome, gynecomastia, liver and thyroid toxicity, reproductive problems, and teratogenic toxicity effects. Fragrances can also cause allergic reactions such as contact dermatitis, photosensitivity, and respiratory disorders.
Overall, while fragrances in hair products can make your hair smell amazing, they can also contain harmful chemicals that can have negative effects on your health.
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Natural alternatives to fragrances
While fragrances can make your hair smell amazing, they can do more harm than good in the long run. Artificial fragrances are often harmful, while natural fragrances are unlikely to cause any damage. A buildup of artificial chemicals in the body can create an environment conducive to cancer. Additionally, over 3,000 chemicals used to create fragrances are hidden under the label of "fragrance" or "perfume", and consumers are unaware of the potential dangers in their heavenly-smelling hair products.
- Dry shampoo: A simple combination of kitchen ingredients such as corn starch and essential oils can be used to make a dry shampoo.
- Hair masks: Hair masks can be made with household items such as eggs, apples, and olive oil to nourish and strengthen hair.
- Shampoo: Homemade shampoos can be made with essential oils such as coconut oil, argan oil, tea tree oil, and peppermint oil.
- Sea salt spray: Combine a tablespoon of sea salt, melted coconut oil, hair gel, and warm water in a spray bottle to create a sea salt spray for styling hair with minimal effort.
- Witch hazel: Witch hazel, derived from the hamamelis virginiana plant, can be used as a natural and fragrance-free aftershave or skin toner.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera gel can be used as a natural hair gel or pre-wash to help with dandruff.
- Natural toothpaste: A natural tooth powder can be made from baking soda, activated charcoal, and a touch of coconut oil.
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Frequently asked questions
Fragrances are added to hair care products to make hair smell nice. However, artificial fragrances may have a negative impact on health.
Artificial fragrances may contain harmful chemicals that can be easily absorbed by the skin. Some of these chemicals are linked to hormone disruption, reduced sperm count, liver and breast cancers, reproductive malformation, and diabetes.
It is recommended to use fragrance-free products or products that use natural fragrances like essential oils. If you want to scent your hair, you can try hair mists or spray perfume into the air and walk through it.
