Hypoallergenic Perfumes
Perfume is a powerful tool in the world of personal grooming and self-expression. It can evoke memories, boost confidence, and leave a lasting impression. However, for some of you, the allure of perfume is overshadowed by concerns about potential allergic reactions. In response, the concept of “hypoallergenic fragrances” has emerged, promising fragrances without the risk of reaction. But do such products really exist, or is it just a marketing ploy? Let’s delve into the science behind perfumes and allergies to uncover the truth.
Normally, perfumes contain various ingredients, including dozens of synthetic compounds and/or essential oils which can trigger sensitivities in certain individuals. Today, we will review how to avoid some of the most common allergens as well as evaluate different brands to determine whether a hypoallergenic fragrance really exists.
Hypoallergenic Perfumes
To begin, “hypoallergenic” typically means that a product is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in most people. However, the term “hypoallergenic” lacks a standardized definition. In fact, the FDA’s website draws attention to this, as companies are not required to submit any form of substantiation of their “hypoallergenic” claims.
Next, it’s crucial to recognize that the relationship between substances and allergic reactions is highly individualized. More specifically, what triggers an allergic response in one person may not affect another. For example, take avocado oil. While it’s a popular ingredient in many applications, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to it upon contact or ingestion. Yet, countless others can enjoy avocado oil without any adverse effects. This stark difference highlights the unique nature of allergic responses. Avocado oil isn’t inherently “bad.” (In fact, I use it for cooking as it stands up to high heat very well.)
Moreover, the concentration of a chemical can play a significant role in determining its allergenic potential. The Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) states that “dose elicitation studies available indicate that a general level of exposure of up to 0.01% [100 parts per million] may be tolerated by most consumers with contact allergy to fragrance allergens.” In other words, as long as the allergens present are in trace amounts, most people won’t react. But determining concentration can be challenging due to the secrecy of perfume formulas.
So, where does that leave us? Must we forgo perfumes entirely?
Not necessarily! After analyzing the top perfume brands marketed as “clean,” I believe there are “better” options worth considering if you can’t give up wearing perfume. Please remember that even genuinely natural ingredients, such as high-quality essential oils, contain naturally occurring allergens. Thus, it is important to understand how to spot the most concerning substances and if they are at concerning concentrations. To illustrate this more clearly, I will review common allergens in perfumes next.
Concerning Perfume Ingredients
Please keep in mind that most conventional perfume brands do not fully disclose their ingredients. This means that if the ingredient list contains “fragrance” or “perfume,” you are not seeing a complete list. Typically, a company will only disclose allergen ingredients as legally required.
Manufacturers are legally able to hide fragrance ingredients to protect them as trade secrets. You can learn more about this in my blog post about natural fragrance. The lack of transparency is concerning because allergic reactions to perfume ingredients can be severe. Thus, headaches, asthma attacks, breathing difficulties, cardiovascular and neurological problems, breast cancer, thyroid and adrenal function, and reproduction concerns are associated with fragrance ingredients, too (source and source).
One way that helps consumers identify possible allergens is when brands follow the European Commission’s (EC) labeling requirements. The EC requires that specific allergens be disclosed if present in at least 10 parts per million for leave-on products. This is helpful but does not tell consumers the maximum concentration of the allergen(s) in the finished product (it could be much higher).
Technically speaking, once our bodies form an immune response to an ingredient, our cells will recognize it as a threat again in the future (source). Not only that, but subsequent exposures can also become increasingly severe (source). In my opinion, it is best to limit our exposure to common allergens, especially when we do not know the total concentration. The European Commission’s Annex III list of allergens is a good place to start. We will discuss that next.
Top Allergens
The European Commission Annex III outlines 26 of the top allergens used in perfumes today, shown in the tables below. These allergens can be found in synthetic ingredients as well as natural ingredients, such as essential oils. They can also be isolated and added to fragrances as stand-alone ingredients. Understanding whether the allergen was naturally occurring in essential oils or intentionally added as a stand-alone ingredient helps hint at the allergens’ total concentration. Personally, I would avoid perfumes that contain top allergens as stand-alone ingredients (where they are likely in higher concentrations), unless the company can provide information to the contrary.
What follows is the European Commission’s Annex III List noting the ingredients that are required to be disclosed on ingredient labels if sold in member regions.
List A: Fragrance chemicals most frequently reported and well-recognized consumer allergens | List B: Fragrance chemicals less frequently reported and thus less documented consumer allergens |
– Amyl cinnamal – Amylcinnamyl alcohol – Benzyl alcohol – Benzyl salicylate – Cinnamyl alcohol – Cinnamal – Citral – Coumarin – Eugenol – Geraniol – Hydroxycitronellal – Hydroxymethylpentyl-cyclohexenecarboxaldehyde – Isoeugenol | – Anisyl alcohol – Benzyl benzoate – Benzyl cinnamate – Citronellol – Farnesol – Hexyl cinnamaldehyde – Lilial – d-Limonene – Linalool – Methyl heptine carbonate – 3-Methyl-4-(2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-yl)-3-buten-2-one |
Furthermore, two fragrances (natural mixtures) were added using common names: – Oak moss – Tree moss |
To be clear, this is not an exhaustive list of all possible allergens (and these chemicals may appear under synonym names on labels). I am also certain this list will grow as 56 chemicals are under review as potential additions (source). Furthermore, new synthetic ingredients are created every year and are often left under-studied. Until a certain chemical garners enough attention, it may be left without safety data or labeling regulations for years or even decades.
Phthalates And Other Pollutants
We know that synthetic ingredients such as phthalates are used in fragrances despite being known endocrine disruptors (source). Phthalates, such as diethyl phthalate (DEP), are widely used in perfume formulations as solvents, fluidizers, stabilizers, and fragrance production agents (source). While Europe and China have restrictions on phthalates in cosmetics, the USA doesn’t (source). The FDA acknowledges this and advises consumers to avoid products with “fragrance” if they do not want to be exposed (source). In fact, this is just one example of why choosing a safer, fully disclosed fragrance is critical.
However, phthalates are just some of the many fragrance ingredients that are hidden under the umbrella term “fragrance.” In fact, in addition to phthalates, this study also revealed parabens, triclosan, salicylates, terpenes, aldehydes, benzene, toluene, styrene, and aluminum-based salts as possible fragrance ingredients (source). Reportedly, potential side effects of these contaminants can include allergies, breast cancer, reproductive disorders (especially in males), skin allergies, nervous system damage, and migraine headaches. In my opinion, it’s not wise to subject ourselves to these toxins. Continue reading for how to spot fragrances I would not recommend.
“Not-A-Fan” Perfumes
Next, I wanted to provide a few examples of the ingredients found in conventional perfumes. First, you will notice that their ingredient lists are relatively short, which is probably because the ingredients are not fully disclosed. Most likely, dozens of additional chemicals, including highly toxic ones, are hidden under the terms “fragrance” or “perfume.” Even if a brand boasts the use of high-quality ingredients, you cannot be certain they are safe if left undisclosed. You will note that many of the ingredients found on these labels are only there because the European Commission requires those top allergens to be disclosed.
Additionally, many fragrances utilize petroleum-based dyes to add color to the product. Besides the residues of heavy metals, they may contain residues of carcinogenic and/or endocrine-disrupting by-products of petroleum (source). In addition, some dyes are linked to carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, and hypersensitivity (source).
Perfume Brand | Concerning Ingredients |
Daisy by Marc Jacobs | Fragrance (undisclosed) BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) is a preservative and synthetic antioxidant used in cosmetic products, pharmaceuticals, and animal feed. Scientists link it to potential hormone-disrupting (source) and carcinogenic effects (source). Dyes: FD&C Yellow N5, and N6 Established Allergens (not labeled as “naturally occurring”): – Benzyl Benzoate – Hexyl Cinnamal – Hydroxycitronellal – Limonene – Linalool |
Valentino Donna Born In Roma Eau de Parfum | Fragrance (undisclosed) Dyes: Ci 14700/Red 4, Ci 60730/Ext. Violet 2 Established Allergens (not labeled as “naturally occurring”): – Hydroxycitronellal – Benzyl Alcohol – Limonene – Linalool – Alpha-isomethyl ionone (established contact allergen by SCCS) – Isoeugenol – Citronellol – Benzyl Benzoate – Coumarin – Geraniol – Benzyl Cinnamate – Citrate – Citral – Farnesol – Eugenol – Tris (Tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol) Citrate (FDA restricted) |
Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle Eau de Parfum Intense Spray | Perfume (undisclosed fragrance) Dyes: Red 4, Red 33, Violet 2, Blue 1, Yellow 5 Established Allergens (not labeled as “naturally occurring”): – Linalool – Limonene – Benzyl Salicylate – Coumarin – Citronellol – Geraniol – Hexyl Cinnamal – Citral – Benzyl Benzoate – Benzyl Alcohol |
Celine Paris Rimbaud Eau De Parfum | Perfume (undisclosed fragrance) Dyes: Red 4, Yellow 5, Violet 2 Established Allergens (not labeled as “naturally occurring”): – Linalool – Coumarin – Limonene – Geraniol – Citral – Farnesol |
Atlantic by Strange Invisible Perfumes | Fragrance (undisclosed essential oils, absolutes, and botanical extracts) Naturally occurring allergens: – Benzyl Benzoate – Benzyl Cinnamate – Citral – Citronellol – Eugenol – Farnesol – Geraniol – Limonene – Linalool |
Blum by Osmia | Fragrance (undisclosed essential oils, absolutes, and botanical extracts) Allergens not disclosed |
Ambery Vanialla by Dossier | Fragrance (undisclosed) Established Allergens (not labeled as “naturally occurring”): – Amyl Cinnamal – Hexyl Cinnamal – Benzyl Alcohol – Benzyl Benzoate – Benzyl Salicylate – Cinnamaldehyde – Cinnamyl Alcohol – Citral – Coumarin – Citronellol – Limonene – Geraniol – Hydroxycitronellal – Linalool |
Radiant Nectar by Clean Reserve | Fragrance (undisclosed) Phenoxyethanol (a preservative made from carcinogenic and corrosive ingredients) Established Allergens (not labeled as “naturally occurring”): – Hydroxycitronellal – Butylphenyl Methylpropional (lilial) is a synthetic fragrance ingredient that may cause an allergic reaction. It has been classified as a moderate sensitizer by the European Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS). It is also linked to reproductive toxicity and endocrine disruption (source). It’s banned in Europe from the use in cosmetic products. |
For consumers with sensitivities, this opacity makes it impossible to spot how many ingredients contain allergens or what their concentrations could be. We also cannot see the many ingredients that have a high likelihood of being toxic hidden under the term “fragrance.” The allergens listed above could also be used as stand-alone ingredients when no notation was provided otherwise. Therefore, I cannot in good conscience recommend perfumes such as the ones above.
“Better” Perfume Options
First, it’s great that some brands disclose their perfume ingredients. It is for this reason that I placed some products in the “better” category. However, I had to put some of them into the “almost better” category due to certain ingredients that have additional potentially strong health risks.
Because all the perfumes I have looked at contain potentially concerning ingredients (to a various extent), there is no “best” category. Furthermore, some products use “established human contact allergens,” and their concentrations are unknown. While these perfumes should be safer than those in the “not-a-fan” category, I cannot confidently say that these are hypoallergenic fragrances.
Also know that the perfume review below belongs to one scent only. In other words, the ingredients of other scents may differ. Please make sure to check the ingredients of the scent of your interest.
Perfume Brand | Concerning Ingredients |
Windows Down by Henry Rose Citrus Bergamot (EWG Verified) | Cyclopentadecanone: characterized as “possible sensitizer” and “likely contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Decanal: characterized as “predicted sensitizer” and “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Ethyl Linalool: characterized as “predicted sensitizer” and possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Methyl Dihydrojasmonate (aka “hedione”): categorized as “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Geranyl Acetate: skin sensitizing (ECHA); categorized as “predicted sensitizer” and “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Hexadecanolide (aka “hexadecanolactone”): an established contact allergen in humans by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Linalool: an established contact allergen in humans by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Linalyl Acetate: an established contact allergen in humans by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Pentadecalactone: skin sensitizing and may cause an allergic skin reaction (ECHA); not on Annex III list. Tetramethyl Acetyloctahydronaphthalenes (aka “ISO E Super”): an established contact allergen by SCCS; restricted by Annex III list. Rose Ketone-4 (aka “damascenone”): an established contact allergen by SCCS; restricted by Annex III list. |
“Almost Better” Perfume Options
The perfumes in the “almost better” category are not in the “better” category because of some ingredients that, in addition to being contact allergens, have other potentially strong health risks, namely:
- Galaxolide: under assessment as endocrine disrupting (ECHA) and
- Heliotropine: suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child (ECHA).
Please make sure to check the ingredients of the particular scent you are interested in.
Perfume Brand | Concerning Ingredients |
Lovely Sweet Dreams Perfume by DIME (One DIME perfume is EWG verified. Please see additional notes below.) | Hedione (aka “methyl dihydrojasmonate”): categorized as “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Galaxolide (aka “hexamethylindanopyran”) and Galaxolide 50 Ipm: under assessment as persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic; under assessment as endocrine disrupting (ECHA); established contact allergens by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Vanillin: established contact allergen by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. ISO E Super (aka “tetramethyl acetyloctahydronaphthalenes”): an established contact allergen by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Ethyl Vanillin: causes serious eye irritation (ECHA), possible sensitizer and is categorized as “likely contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Damascenone (aka “rose ketone-4”): skin sensitizer (ECHA); an established contact allergen in humans by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Cyclamen Aldehyde: skin sensitizer (ECHA); an established contact allergen in animals (SCCS); not on Annex III list. Heliotropine: skin sensitizing, suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child and may cause an allergic skin reaction (ECHA); categorized as “likely contact allergen” and “possible sensitizer” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. |
Boardwalk Delight Fragrance by Skylar | Benzaldehyde: established contact allergen by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Cyclamen Aldehyde: skin sensitizer (ECHA); an established allergen in animals by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Damascone Alpha: an established contact allergen by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. Dihydro Myrcenol: characterized as “possible sensitizer” and “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Ethyl Linalool: characterized as “predicted sensitizer” and possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Ethyl Vanillin: causes serious eye irritation (ECHA), possible sensitizer and is categorized as “likely contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Florocyclene (aka “tricyclodecenyl propionate”): categorized as “possible sensitizer” and “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Hedione (aka “methyl dihydrojasmonate”): categorized as “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Heliotropine: skin sensitizing, suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child and may cause an allergic skin reaction (ECHA); categorized as “likely contact allergen” and “possible sensitizer” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Jasmacyclene (aka “verdyl acetate”): characterized as “possible sensitizer” and “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Osyrol (aka “methoxytrimethylheptanol”): characterized as “possible contact allergen” by SCCS; not on Annex III list. Vanillin: established contact allergen by SCCS; restricted by Annex III. |
A Note On DIME
DIME uses synthetic ingredients and thus does not have naturally occurring allergens that would arise in fragrances that use essential oils. This would also be a better option for individuals who know they are allergic to common allergens in essential oils.
However, Galaxolide, the third ingredient (an SCCS-established human contact allergen), has an EWG rating of 6 but is labeled with an EWG rating of 1 across the DIME website. Was this a mistake, or did DIME hope customers would not notice? Perhaps this will be clarified if DIME pursues additional EWG verifications.
Next, many of the ingredients in DIME perfume have no studies performed on them, limiting our view of their safety. While this scent is “better,” I would have hoped for more transparency from this brand.
Safety Tips On Using Perfume
Now that we have established several perfume brands that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction, I want to leave you with some further safety tips.
First, before fully applying a new perfume, it’s wise to conduct a patch test to ensure your skin’s compatibility with the product. To do this, apply a small amount of the perfume to a patch of skin, such as the inner wrist or elbow, and allow it to remain there for 24-48 hours. Consequently, you can observe any potential allergic reactions or irritation that may occur. If you notice redness, itching, swelling, or any other signs of discomfort during this time, it’s crucial to discontinue the use of the product immediately.
Even if you’ve been using the same perfume for a while now, it’s still a good idea to periodically perform sensitivity tests to ensure your skin hasn’t developed a new reaction. This is a common response called sensitization.
Second, to reduce the risk of allergic reactions, it’s also advisable to limit your use of scented personal care products. In addition, using multiple scented products, even those naturally sourced, can result in an additive effect. In other words, you may be layering on allergenic ingredients, resulting in a higher exposure. Do not worry – you will find many wonderful fragrance-free products suggested in my non-toxic products archives. Save the use of scent ingredients for when it matters to you most.
Third, it is important to always watch for allergic reactions. Why? Some perfumes contain sensitizers that can cause an allergic reaction after repeated use. In my opinion, it is not a good idea to consistently use the same perfume over a long-term period. So the safest approach would be to select a “better” perfume and save it for special occasions.
Conclusion: Do Hypoallergenic Perfumes Exist?
Universally Hypoallergenic Fragrances Are Challenging To Create Due To Individual Immune Responses. Safer Perfume Brands Prioritize Ingredient Transparency And Exercise Careful Limitations On Potential Allergens.
Today, the vast majority of perfume options on store shelves contain many concerning and allergenic ingredients. Due to labeling laws that protect fragrances as trade secrets, these harmful ingredients may hide under the umbrella of “fragrance.” The wide array of potential side effects and reactions that can occur with exposure to these ingredients underscores the importance of greater transparency in the fragrance industry.
Thankfully, we are seeing safer fragrance brands appear in response to consumer demand. Moreover, these companies willingly disclose all of their ingredients and are careful to reduce or eliminate allergens where possible. Some brands prefer to use natural ingredients such as essential oils. While these sources contain some naturally occurring allergens, they are relatively clear in terms of safety concentrations. Conversely, other brands dodge natural allergens by focusing on safer synthetic chemicals. However, there isn’t much safety data for these ingredients and more studies are necessary.
Despite these concerns, I believe Henry Rose offers a “better” option, and DIME and Skylar offer “almost better” choices in a range of scents.
All users will benefit from taking basic safety measures to avoid harmful reactions. Reading ingredient labels, conducting patch testing, and limiting the number of personal care products with allergens all help in reducing our exposure.
While it’s challenging to navigate the intricate landscape of allergens, many brands are putting in the effort to bring you the benefits of perfume in a safe and enjoyable way. If you try one of these scents, please be sure to let me know about your experience!
In the meantime, remember to browse the I Read Labels For You blog for tons of other useful information. Visit my non-toxic personal care, skincare, and makeup shop, download my permanent hair color e-book, and have a consultation with me if you need help with your non-toxic living.
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Any thoughts on LeLabo fragrances? I’m chemically sensitive, so can’t be around most perfumes, but this line doesn’t bother me as much. Living Libations & Juniper Ridge offer clean fragrance choices. They don’t last as long, but put me in a happy place for a while 🙂
Thanks so much!
Hi Sabina,
Thank you for reaching out!
LeLabo does not fully disclose their ingredients and contains BHT.
We hope this helps!