When you see the word "fragrance" or "parfum" on an ingredient label, it is a single ingredient declaration that can legally represent a formula containing anywhere from a few to several hundred individual chemicals. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) maintains a list of restricted and banned ingredients, but membership and compliance are voluntary. The US has no mandatory disclosure requirements for fragrance ingredients beyond that single word on the label.
Phthalates are commonly used in fragrances as fixatives, meaning they help the scent last longer on the skin. They are not required to be listed on labels when used as part of a fragrance formula. Phthalates are classified as endocrine disruptors and have been detected in the urine of people who use fragranced personal care products.
Synthetic musks are another class of fragrance chemicals used to add depth and warmth to scents. Some synthetic musks have been found to bioaccumulate in human body fat and have been detected in breast milk. For people with asthma, migraines, or multiple chemical sensitivities, synthetic fragrances are a major trigger.
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