FRAGRANCES IN COSMETIC PRODUCTS

The demand for fragrance-free cosmetics is on the rise. Why? Unfortunately, we see that a good number of influencers are spreading false information about scented cosmetics. What is a fragrance and why is it part of the composition of a product? It is important to always turn to a professional for answers to your questions when it comes to skincare products. Today, Acaderme demystifies for you the presence of fragrances in cosmetics.

Several smells, several fragrances

Perfumes can come from different sources, starting with natural fragrances that come from plant extracts, flowers and seeds. There are also synthetic fragrances that are designed in the lab, but have the exact same scent and quality as the natural ones. We will also count on the essential oils which are present in the formulas to perfume them, but also on extracts that can have a fairly present smell and could on their own perfume the formula.

About 95% of people use cosmetic products containing perfumes every day without seeing any problem. This is explained by the fact that the vast majority of major global cosmetics companies are members of the IFRA (international fragrance association) which has developed a code of practice and safety for cosmetic formulators. By respecting the said code, they are able to integrate fragrances into their different formulas without any danger.

IFRA issues a series of actions, restrictions and recommendations based on the RIFM (Research Institute Fragrance Materials), a non-profit organization on which sits a panel of toxicologists, pharmacists and dermatologists who regularly test the dangerous potential of certain fragrances, in addition to issuing recommendations followed by IFRA. Based on all of these recommendations, cosmetic companies are able to market products that are safe and harmless to consumers. If the brand of products you use in the cabin and as retail products follow the standards issued by IFRA, you have no need to worry about their safety.

Why are there fragrances in cosmetic products?

Many reasons come into play when it comes to fragrance in cosmetics, but one of the most important is based on experience. Have you noticed what the majority of your customers do when you offer them a new product? They will bring it up to their nose and smell it. This is a perfectly normal reflex. After all, who wants to put a bad-smelling product on their face? Nobody! The studies speak for themselves, customers want products that smell good!

Removing fragrances from all products will therefore cut us off from an important part of the experience, but also from our memories. The olfactory memory is powerful, and the smell of a product is often associated with a memory or an action.

Fragrances are also added to products to mask odors. The raw materials used in the manufacture of cosmetics do not always smell good, for example, the sulfur used in the composition of acne products. Sulfur, although very effective, gives off an odor of rotten eggs. So, if you want to offer a sulfur-based cream, but without fragrance, your cream may put off many people with its “pleasant” smell of expired eggs.

Fragrance-free, really?

The reality is that this claim is often wrong. There are many false marketing actions, and the world of cosmetics is no exception. Take the time to look at the INCI list explained in a previous capsule , and you will notice that it is often indicated “fragrance”. As brands know that some customers are looking for a fragrance-free product, they will market a product called “fragrance-free”. But do not be fooled, although the product does not contain perfume or fragrance, it will however contain essential oils or extracts which contain just as many allergens as fragrances can contain. Your role is therefore important and it is your duty to make your customers aware of this reality. Be careful, however, to remember that some of your customers actually have an allergy to perfumes and fragrances due to a pathology of their skin or any other problem, making the potential for irritation greater. Otherwise, there is no danger in using scented products. You will live a complete experience, a moment of relaxation and well-being that will motivate you to take care of your skin!

For more information, consult our video : Fragrances in Cosmetic Products