Fragrance-free vs. unscented: what the label really means
If your skin has become drier or quicker to react, you have probably started reading labels more closely. Two words come up all the time: unscented and fragrance-free. They sound the same. They are not.
"Unscented" can still contain fragrance
According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), even some products labeled "unscented" may contain fragrance ingredients. A manufacturer can add a small amount of fragrance to cover the natural smell of other ingredients, so the product doesn't seem to smell of anything.[1]
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) gives similar advice for dry skin: choose fragrance-free products, and be cautious with products labeled "unscented", because they may contain chemicals that can irritate dry skin.[2]
Why "fragrance" on a label tells you so little
Most cosmetic ingredients must be listed one by one. Fragrance is an exception: it can simply be listed as "Fragrance" or "Parfum", because fragrance formulas are treated as trade secrets.[1] One word on the label can stand for a mix of many ingredients.
Fragrance and sensitive skin
The FDA notes that some components of fragrance formulas may cause allergic reactions or sensitivities in some people.[1] Fragrance is one of the most frequent causes of allergic contact dermatitis, and cosmetics are one of its main sources.[3]
Essential oils count too
A product can say "no synthetic fragrance" and still be scented with essential oils such as lavender or citrus. Essential oils are natural, but they are also fragrance ingredients. If you want to avoid scent altogether, check the full ingredient list for essential oils as well.
How to check a label in 30 seconds
- Look for fragrance-free, not just "unscented".
- Scan the ingredient list for Parfum, Fragrance or Aroma.
- Look for essential oils, often listed with "oil" and a plant name, such as Lavandula Angustifolia Oil.
- Patch test any new product on a small area of skin first.
How we do it
Nuelune products contain no added parfum and no essential oils. You can read the full ingredient list of every product on our site, in plain English. Learn more in What fragrance-free really means.
Sources
- US Food and Drug Administration. Fragrances in Cosmetics. fda.gov
- American Academy of Dermatology. Dermatologists' top tips for relieving dry skin. aad.org
- Review of fragrance contact allergy. Current Treatment Options in Allergy, 2021. Read the review
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your skin is very itchy, red or painful, please see a doctor or dermatologist.
