Artificial fragrances are pervasive in modern consumer products, from personal care items to household cleaners. While they can enhance sensory experiences, research indicates that these synthetic scents can pose significant health risks.
Understanding these risks empowers you to make healthier choices for your home.
Understanding Artificial Fragrances
Artificial fragrances are complex mixtures of chemicals designed to mimic natural scents or create novel aromas. A single perfume, for instance, may contain numerous synthetic compounds. These compounds are not always disclosed on product labels, often listed under the generic term “fragrance,” or “parfum” or “perfume” making it challenging for us to identify potential allergens or toxins.
“Synthetic scents, primarily derived from petroleum, are of great concern because they are the cheapest, present in abundance, and consequently one of the main contributors to decreasing indoor air quality and increasing personal exposure and potential health risks”, Gandhi Rádis-Baptista, 2023.
What are fragrance fixatives and what are they used for?
Fragrance fixatives are chemicals used in laundry products to prolong the scent. They work by slowing the evaporation of volatile fragrance components, ensuring that the aroma remains on fabrics for an extended period after washing. This can be particularly desirable in laundry detergents, fabric softeners, and scent boosters, where long-lasting freshness is a key selling point.
A recent systematic review highlighted that certain contaminants in aromatic products, including phthalates and aldehydes, can cause side effects such as allergies, reproductive disorders, and skin sensitivities.
Respiratory Issues and Allergies
Exposure to artificial fragrances has been linked to various respiratory problems. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Health found that nearly 20% of the general population and 34% of asthmatics report headaches, breathing difficulties, or other health problems when exposed to air fresheners or deodorisers.
Common symptoms include:
- Asthma Attacks: Fragranced products can trigger asthma attacks, leading to wheezing and shortness of breath.
- Allergic Reactions: Ingredients in synthetic fragrances can cause allergic contact dermatitis and other skin reactions.
- Headaches and Migraines: Many individuals experience headaches or migraines upon exposure to certain scented products.
Endocrine Disruption
Phthalates, a group of chemicals often used in artificial fragrances to prolong scent duration, are known endocrine disruptors. These compounds can interfere with hormonal balance, leading to reproductive health issues. Research has associated high levels of phthalates with increased risk of infertility, poor sperm parameters, poor egg quality, and miscarriage. Additionally, exposure to phthalates has been linked to early puberty in girls and hormone-related cancers.
Carcinogenic Potential
Certain chemicals used in artificial fragrances have been identified as potential carcinogens. For example, a study highlighted that burning scented candles releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene and formaldehyde, both classified as carcinogenic to humans. Prolonged exposure to these substances can increase the risk of developing cancers, particularly affecting the respiratory system.
Impact on Indoor Air Quality
The use of fragranced products indoors can significantly degrade air quality. Research conducted by Anne Steinemann found that more than 156 VOCs were emitted from 37 fragranced consumer products, with 42 classified as toxic or hazardous by US standards. Poor indoor air quality can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, respiratory irritation, and cognitive impairments.
“hundreds of undisclosed fragrance-related chemicals in product formulations of PCHPs can trigger or intensify episodic and chronic symptoms of allergies, headaches, and cardiovascular diseases in sensitive organisms. In worse cases, fragrance chemicals interfere with the neuroendocrine-immune axis promoting cancer and developmental problems, Gandhi Rádis-Baptista, 2023.
People at risk
Certain groups are more susceptible to the adverse effects of artificial fragrances:
- Pregnant Women and young children: Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during critical developmental periods can have lasting health implications.
- Individuals with pre-existing conditions: Those with asthma, allergies, or chemical sensitivities may experience exacerbated symptoms.
- Elderly individuals: Age-related vulnerabilities can heighten sensitivity to toxic exposures.
Why are chemicals in artificial fragrances not listed on the label?
A significant concern is the lack of transparency in fragrance ingredient disclosure. Manufacturers are not legally required to list all fragrance chemicals on product labels, often citing trade secrets. This lack of disclosure prevents consumers from making informed choices and avoiding harmful substances.
Laboratory tests commissioned by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics and analysed by Environmental Working Group (2010) revealed 38 secret chemicals in 17 name brand fragrance products. The average fragrance product tested contained 14 secret chemicals not listed on the label. Among these, were chemicals associated with hormone disruption and allergic reactions, and many substances that had not been assessed for safety in personal care products.
Why Choose Greenscents?
At Greenscents, we’re committed to providing organic, non-toxic, and fragrance-free options for your home. Our products are formulated with natural ingredients that are safe for your family and the environment. When we do use scents, we rely on pure essential oils that are responsibly sourced and carefully selected to minimize allergic reactions.
- Fragrance-Free Options: Perfect for those with sensitivities, our Nonscents collection ensures your home stays fresh without compromising your health.
- Natural Essential Oils: For those who love a light scent, we use only pure, organic essential oils—never synthetic fragrances or harmful fixatives.
- Transparency: We list all our ingredients clearly, so you know exactly what’s in every product.
Tips for Reducing Exposure to Artificial Fragrances
- Opt for Fragrance-Free Products: Look for labels that specifically state “fragrance-free.” Be cautious with “unscented” products, as they may still contain masking agents.
- Improve Ventilation: Keep your home well-ventilated to reduce the concentration of airborne chemicals.
- Use Natural Alternatives: Choose products scented with natural essential oils, but ensure they are pure and not mixed with synthetic compounds.
- Read Labels Carefully: Avoid products that list “fragrance” or “parfum” without disclosing specific ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Choosing products free from artificial fragrances is a simple yet powerful step toward creating a healthier home. At Greenscents, we’re proud to offer alternatives that prioritise your well-being and the planet. By staying informed and making conscious choices, you can reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and enjoy a cleaner, safer home environment.
Further reading
Steinemann, A. (2016). Fragranced consumer products: exposures and effects from emissions. Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, 9(8), 861–866.
Caress, S. M., & Steinemann, A. C. (2009). National prevalence of fragrance sensitivity. Journal of Environmental Health, 71(7), 46–50.
Dodson, R. E., Nishioka, M., Standley, L. J., Perovich, L. J., Brody, J. G., & Rudel, R. A. (2012). Endocrine disruptors and asthma-associated chemicals in consumer products. Environmental Health Perspectives, 120(7), 935–943.
Steinemann, A. (2015). Volatile emissions from common consumer products. Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, 8(3), 273–281.
Steinemann, A. (2019). International prevalence of fragrance sensitivity. Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, 12(8), 891–897.
Steinemann, A. (2019). Ten questions concerning fragrance-free policies and indoor environments. Building and Environment,
Zahra Kazemi et al (2022) Evaluation of pollutants in perfumes, colognes and health effects on the consumer: a systematic review. J Environ Health Sci Eng 20(1):589–598.
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/nov/23/personal-care-products-pfas-pregnancy?utm_
Sawyer Ashcroft et al (2024) Synthetic Endocrine Disruptors in Fragranced Products. Endocrines, 5(3), 366-381
Jan Adamowicz et al (2019) Scented Candles as an Unrecognized Factor that Increases the Risk of Bladder Cancer; Is There Enough Evidence to Raise a Red Flag? Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 12 (10): 645–652.
https://www.ewg.org/sites/default/files/report/SafeCosmetics_FragranceRpt.pdf