The Truth About Fragrance: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Health

What’s Really in “Fragrance”?

When you see the word “fragrance” or “parfum” on a product label, you might not give it much thought. But did you know that this term can hide hundreds of unregulated chemicals? Many of these chemicals aren’t listed on the ingredient label, leaving consumers unaware of what they’re actually being exposed to.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), up to 95% of chemicals used in synthetic fragrances are derived from petroleum. Some of the most concerning include:

• Phthalates – Linked to hormone disruption and developmental issues.

• Benzene – A known carcinogen linked to blood disorders, immune system damage, and an increased risk of leukemia.

• Toluene – Used in fragrance formulations, but can cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory issues, and nervous system damage with prolonged exposure.

• Formaldehyde – A chemical classified as a known carcinogen.

• Synthetic musks – Can build up in the body and interfere with hormone function.

Out of 3,500 synthetic fragrance chemicals, 95% are petroleum based, or derived from petroleum.

Since companies aren’t required to disclose individual fragrance ingredients, it’s impossible to know exactly what’s in many products. A 2018 study by Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP) found that fragrance ingredients made up over 1/3 of harmful chemicals detected in personal care products.

Fragrance vs. Pure Essential Oils: What’s the Difference?

Some brands design their packaging and branding to make their products look natural and to instill in the minds of consumers the assumption that their product is natural and therefore harmless. Upon closer examination of the product label, usually in the smallest text on the label, you may find “fragrance” listed as an ingredient, instead of pure, plant based ingredients. Here’s how synthetic fragrances compare to pure essential oils:

Many brands use nature-inspired packaging and words like “botanical” to appear natural, but if the label simply states “fragrance” without details, the product likely contains synthetic scent compounds..

Greenwashing & Misleading Labels

A growing number of brands market their products as “natural” and “clean,” but a closer look at the ingredient list often tells a different story. Some brands even name their products after plants or essential oils, yet their formulas rely on synthetic fragrance rather than true botanical extracts.

Examples of Greenwashing in the Fragrance Industry:

• A popular deodorant brand with a natural aesthetic implies it’s scented with essential oils. But the ingredient list only states “fragrance,” with no mention of essential oils.

• A household cleaner with green branding claims to be free from harsh chemicals, yet it contains synthetic fragrance compounds with no ingredient breakdown.

This misleads customers, making them think they are buying something healthier than it really is.

Where Are Hidden Fragrances Found?

Synthetic fragrance chemicals can be found in many everyday products, including:

1. Personal Care Products – Shampoos, lotions, and deodorants often contain synthetic fragrance, which can cause skin irritation and hormone disruption.

2. Household Cleaners – Many cleaning sprays and detergents use synthetic fragrance to mask chemical odors, but they can release harmful air pollutants.

3. Air Fresheners & Candles

   • Many air fresheners contain phthalates, which have been linked to breathing problems and hormone imbalances.

   • Scented candles made with paraffin wax release benzene and toluene when burned—both linked to headaches, lung irritation, and cancer.

   • OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) warns that paraffin wax fumes can irritate the eyes, skin, and lungs.

4. Laundry Detergents & Fabric Softeners – These products leave synthetic fragrance residues on clothes, exposing users to chemicals throughout the day.

5. Cosmetics & Skincare – Many beauty products contain hidden fragrance chemicals, which can cause skin sensitivities and long-term health concerns.

How to Avoid Harmful Fragrances

📌 Check Labels – Just because a product looks natural doesn’t mean it is. If it lists “fragrance” or “parfum” without further explanation, be cautious.

📌 Choose “Fragrance-Free,” Not “Unscented” – “Unscented” products may still contain fragrance chemicals to neutralize odors. “Fragrance-free” means no added fragrance.

📌 Opt for Pure Essential Oils – Essential oils provide natural scent without the health risks of synthetic fragrance.

Why Choose VivApotheca?

At VivApotheca, we believe in complete transparency. Our essential oils are 100% pure, sustainably sourced, and free from synthetic chemicals. When you shop with us, you get exactly what’s on the label—nothing hidden.

✔ No artificial fragrances ✔ No hidden chemicals ✔ Only high-quality essential oils from real plants

Final Thoughts

Many brands use deceptive marketing to make their products seem more natural and safer than they actually are. By learning how to read labels and recognize greenwashing, you can make better choices for your health.

Choosing pure, plant-based scents lets you enjoy beautiful aromas without the risks of synthetic chemicals. At VivApotheca, we’re committed to offering safe, high-quality products you can trust—because your health and well-being matter.

💬 We want to hear from you! Have you ever been misled by a brand’s marketing? What steps do you take to avoid synthetic fragrances? Share your experiences in the comments below!