Not Just a Smell: Dangers of Synthetic Fragrance
Posted by Laguna Herbals On Staff Writer on Jun 21st 2020
Dangers of Synthetic Fragrance
We at Laguna Herbals don't compromise on our ingredients! All of our formulas are natural, organic, and non-toxic. Each of our formulations are hand crafted with natural ingredients, and holistic intentions. Synthetic fragrances are no exception! Fragrance is so much more than just a scent, it contains chemicals that seep into your bloodstream and can cause lifelong health implications. With the growing popularity of “Green Beauty” many brands have come out with lines marketed as “Natural Skincare,” “Clean and Green,” and “Organic Skincare;” however, many of these products still contain fragrance. (keep in mind "fragrance" means synthetic). If the manufacturer does not specify that a scent is derived from essential oils then it is likely synthetic.
Green Beauty is more than just a trend, but a lifestyle. Maintaining a clean and green routine is NOT easy, we know! But don’t worry, we’re here to help, just keep on reading <3 !
WHAT is “fragrance?”
More than 95 percent of the chemicals in synthetic fragrances are derived from petrochemicals. These chemicals include: benzene derivatives, aldehydes, phthalates, and a slew of other known toxins that are capable of causing cancer, birth defects, nervous-system disorders and allergies—some of which are cited on the EPA’s hazardous waste list.
WHERE is it hiding?
In the United States, manufacturers can legally hide hundreds of synthetic chemicals in the one word—“fragrance”—without revealing what those ingredients are. It’s referred to as a “trade secret” in the industry. But really, it’s simply a loophole. This excuse to not label fragrance ingredients was initiated in an era when the major fragrance houses lobbied to protect their secret formulas made from flowers and oils. What the government is protecting now are manufacturers who have a license to poison the American public with more than 3,000 chemicals that are being absorbed, inhaled, and ingested daily.
WHY should I avoid it?
Environmental Working Group (EWG) researchers found more than 75 percent of products listing the ingredient “fragrance” contained phthalates (THAL-ates) which have been shown to disrupt hormone activity, reduce sperm counts, and cause reproductive malformation, and have been linked to liver and breast cancer, diabetes, and obesity. Additionally, studies by Dr. Philip J. Landrigan of the Mount Sinai Children’s Environmental Health Center, link fetal exposure with autism, ADHD, and neurological disorders.
HOW do I avoid fragrance?
Fragrance, including perfumes and colognes, is present in many products outside of just beauty products. It is present in baby lotions and wipes, air fresheners and candles, dryer sheets and detergents, and more. The ingredients in “fragrance” are absorbed into the bloodstream directly through the skin.
Thebottom line: Congress has banned some phthalates in toys, but as the recent study above suggests, others have been substituted in their place. Many countries have banned phthalates including Europe and Canada. But the U.S. government demands such a high level of proof of harm that many agree it is simply impossible to reach—and our government is slow to respond, banning only a few chemicals in its history.
If a manufacturer isn’t willing to list ALL of a product’s ingredients on its label or website they are likely trying to hide something, beware!