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That moment when you open a bag of coffee or open your favourite scented product, you take a deep breath in and smile! Scents and smells have such an impact on us, both physically and emotionally. It is a very personal choice as to what we like, and what we don't!
But for some people, scents and aromas have the opposite effect. We have seen in increase in skin sensitivity over time with more customers coming to us for help after experiencing issues with their previous skincare brands. Many reactions often seem to stem from issues with fragrance related ingredients. Some reactions can be immediate whilst others can develop over time.
Fragrance free skincare refers to products that do not contain any added synthetic or natural fragrances. These fragrances are often used in skincare products to enhance the scent, but they can also be a common irritant for sensitive skin.
For individuals with sensitive skin, fragrance free skincare can be a game changer. Fragrances can cause irritation, redness, and allergic reactions in some people, leading to discomfort and potential skin damage. By opting for fragrance free products, you can reduce the risk of these negative reactions.
Fragrance can be a leading cause of Allergic Contact Dermatitis or ACD. This is a type of eczema caused by contact with a particular ingredient, or ingredients. It leads to dry, irritated and sensitive skin.
Part of the issue with added fragrance in skincare is because it often described as 'parfum' on the ingredients' list. Unfortunately, brands don't have to declare exactly what they are using to create the fragrance, and therefore the consumer is left unable to determine what substances are used to create the scent.
Skin reactions can often be caused by the synthetic chemical compounds used to create artificial scent and fragrance. Furthermore, preservatives can be hidden under this ingredient too (parfum) which can cause numerous skincare sensitivities. You can check out our chemicals to avoid list highlighting many of the worst irritants used in skin and hair care.
If the fragrance is a blend of essential oils then this is usually set out fully in the ingredients. In order to create scent and fragrance in products this is much more acceptable to consumers as you can check which essential oils are used. This is something that we do, as we are fully transparent with all the ingredients used in our products. Of course, even if just essential oils are used to create fragrance we would not count this as fragrance free skincare.
Other common naturally occurring allergens which can cause sensitivities are linalool, citral and d-limonene. These are usually extracted from citrus based ingredients, naturally occurring in essential oils.
This is why we designed and created our 'Pure' range, for those of you with sensitivities and allergies. The Pure collection of skin and hair products is fragrance free (so no essential oils added for scent) and we never add 'parfum', whether considered natural or not!
Studies have shown that fragrance free skincare products are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions compared to products with added fragrances. In fact, up to 1 in 3 individuals may experience some form of skin irritation from fragranced products.
Additionally, fragrance free products are often recommended by dermatologists for individuals with eczema, rosacea, or other skin conditions that may be aggravated by fragrances. By eliminating potential irritants, you can help maintain the health and integrity of your skin.
Sensitivity to artificial fragrance can often be overwhelming as it is so prevalent in our modern living environment. We recommend avoiding all of the following even if you don't have sensitivity to fragrance!
Off-gasing from carpets, vinyl and laminate flooring. Scented candles, room diffusers and plugin air fresheners both at home and in your car. Washing powders and laundry conditioners laden with artificial fragrance, plus scented sprays. This is just getting started!
When it comes to skincare, choosing the right products for your skin type is crucial. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to irritation, consider incorporating fragrance free products into your routine. Your skin will thank you for it!
