What is Fragrance?
Fragrance (also listed as "Parfum" on labels) is a catch-all term for any combination of scent-producing chemicals used in cosmetics. A single "fragrance" listing can contain anywhere from 10 to 300+ individual chemicals, and manufacturers aren't legally required to disclose them â they're protected as "trade secrets."
The fragrance industry uses over 3,000 different chemicals to create scents. Many of these have never been tested for safety when applied to skin.
Where is it found?
Fragrance isn't just in perfumes â it's added to almost every cosmetic product to create pleasant scents and mask the chemical smell of other ingredients.
Why do people avoid it?
Fragrance is the #1 cause of cosmetic contact allergies according to dermatologists worldwide. The European Union has identified 26 specific fragrance allergens that must be labeled if present above certain concentrations. These include Linalool, Limonene, Citronellol, Geraniol, Eugenol, and Cinnamal.
What makes fragrance particularly problematic is sensitization â you can use a product for years without issues, then suddenly develop a reaction. Once sensitized, you may react to that chemical for life.
Products labeled "unscented" may still contain fragrance! Manufacturers often add masking fragrances to cover the smell of other ingredients. Always look for "fragrance-free" instead.
In Indian Products đŽđŗ
In India, most popular cosmetic brands use "Parfum" without specifying which fragrance chemicals are included. This is legal, but makes it difficult for sensitive consumers to identify triggers.
Ayurvedic and "natural" products often use essential oils like rose, sandalwood, or jasmine â these are still fragrances and can cause the same allergic reactions as synthetic scents.
Brands to check: Lakme, Biotique, Forest Essentials, Himalaya, and Mamaearth products â most contain fragrance.
How to check your products
Look for "Parfum", "Fragrance", or "Aroma" anywhere on the ingredient list. These are the most common terms. Products labeled "fragrance-free" are your safest bet.
The word "fragrance" appears in 95% of shampoos and 90% of lotions. If you're sensitive, focus on finding the few products that are truly fragrance-free.
Safer Alternatives
Look for products specifically labeled "fragrance-free" (not just unscented). Brands like CeraVe, Vanicream, and La Roche-Posay offer fragrance-free lines. In India, Minimalist and some Cetaphil products are fragrance-free options.