Perfumes, colognes and scented products have been around for centuries, but with so much information out there, it's hard to know whether perfume oils are safe or not. As a French Perfumer with years of experience in the fragrance industry, I’m here to help you understand the complexities of perfume oils and what to look out for.
The Vague Naming of “Perfume Oils”
The term "perfume oil" is a broad and vague description that can mean different things. It can refer to essential oils, "fragrance oils" (synthetics), or carrier oils. Let's take a closer look at each of these components:
Essential oils: These are natural extracts that are derived from plant materials such as flowers, bark, leaves, or fruit. Essential oils are composed of hundreds of single molecules called isolates. However, the definition of "natural" ingredients can be confusing, so it's important to do your research and seek out information from reputable sources.
“Fragrance oils” or Synthetics: These are synthetic compounds that don't exist in nature and are created in a lab. The majority of perfumes, colognes and scented products today contain synthetics, as they are more stable than naturals and usually perform better.
Carrier oils: These are the base oils used to dilute the scented ingredients. The most common carrier oils used are Jojoba, Denatured Coconut, or Almond oils.
Allergens
Allergies can be a concern when it comes to perfume oils, as certain molecules can cause skin irritation or migraines for some people. It is important to note that while many people assume that natural ingredients are always safer than synthetics, this is not necessarily true. In fact, some natural molecules are actually more likely to cause allergic reactions than their synthetic counterparts. For example, linalool and ethyl linalool, two molecules commonly found in natural fragrances, are known to cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
That being said, there are some ways to minimize the risk of allergic reactions when it comes to perfume oils. One option is to choose small-batch, artisanal perfumes over mass-produced commercial fragrances. Artisanal perfumes are often made with higher-quality ingredients, and in smaller quantities, which means that the perfumer has more control over the formulation and can avoid adding certain additives or preservatives that are common in mass-produced fragrances. These additives and preservatives are often used to improve the performance of the fragrance and reduce costs during production, but they can also increase the likelihood of an allergic reaction. By choosing an artisanal perfume, you may be able to reduce your risk of experiencing an allergic reaction, as well as support a small business and enjoy a unique scent that is not as widely available as mass-produced perfumes.
To avoid any allergies, it's important to patch test any new perfume, especially natural or commercial scents, before applying it to a larger area of the skin.
IFRA
The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) is a regulatory organization that sets standards for the fragrance industry. The IFRA Transparency List includes limitations, restrictions, or banishments of over 3,600 ingredients (natural or synthetic) that have been deemed unsafe or could be unsafe. While compliance with IFRA regulations is not required in the US, at Jil CROQUET Parfum, we think it is important for you to know what's in our blends, and we not only comply with IFRA but also list all allergens on our website and bottle boxes so you can spray your favorite artisan perfume without worrying about nasties in it.
Other Additives
Phthalates, sulfates, preservatives, and other additives used in fragrances can also contribute to the “safety” of a blend. While these are not considered perfume oils, they are important to consider when evaluating a fragrance.
In conclusion, the safety of perfume oils depends on the individual, the specific molecules in the fragrance, and the regulatory standards that are followed. At Jil CROQUET Parfum, we prioritize transparency and compliance with IFRA regulations to ensure that our customers can make informed decisions. Always patch test new scents and check ingredient lists to ensure that you're using a fragrance that works for you.
Enjoy a safe smelling!