The Truth About Synthetic Fragrance in Skincare
We are drawn to beautiful scent. It is human nature.
A product that smells incredible feels luxurious. It feels like it is working. It feels like a treat every time you open the lid. And the beauty industry knows this, which is why synthetic fragrance is one of the most widely used ingredients in conventional skincare.
But there is something the industry does not tend to talk about very loudly. Fragrance is also one of the most common causes of skin sensitivity, irritation, and barrier damage in skincare products today.
And most people have no idea it is the culprit.
What is synthetic fragrance?
Synthetic fragrance is a laboratory-created scent compound added to skincare, haircare, and body products to make them smell appealing. It is listed on ingredient labels simply as fragrance or parfum, which sounds innocent enough.
But here is the problem with that. The word fragrance on a label can legally represent a blend of hundreds of individual chemicals. Manufacturers are not required to disclose what those chemicals are because fragrance formulas are protected as trade secrets.
So when you see fragrance or parfum on an ingredient list, you are looking at a black box. You do not know what is inside it.
Why is it a problem for skin?
Many of the chemicals commonly used in synthetic fragrance compounds are known irritants and allergens. Some are classified as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body's hormonal systems. Others have been linked to contact dermatitis, a form of skin inflammation that can develop over time with repeated exposure.
The tricky part is that the reaction is not always immediate. Synthetic fragrance can quietly sensitise the skin over months or even years of use. You might use a product every day for a long time and feel fine, and then one day your skin starts reacting, and you cannot work out why.
By that point the sensitisation has already happened. And once the skin becomes sensitised to a fragrance ingredient, that sensitivity tends to be permanent.
Who is most at risk?
The honest answer is anyone. But some people are more vulnerable than others.
Those with already sensitive or reactive skin will often notice a reaction more quickly. People with eczema or rosacea are particularly susceptible because their skin barrier is already compromised, making it easier for irritants to penetrate.
But even people with skin that seems resilient are not immune. Fragrance sensitivity can develop at any age, in any skin type, after any length of exposure. It is one of the most underdiagnosed causes of adult-onset skin sensitivity.
What about natural fragrance?
This is where it gets a little more nuanced.
Natural fragrance, derived from essential oils and botanical extracts, is generally considered a gentler alternative to synthetic fragrance. And for many people it is. But it is worth knowing that natural fragrance can also be a source of irritation for some skin types, particularly those that are already sensitised or reactive.
Essential oils like citrus, lavender, and peppermint, while natural, contain compounds that can irritate sensitive skin or cause photosensitivity when used in high concentrations.
The difference is transparency. With natural fragrance, you generally know what you are getting. With synthetic fragrance, you often do not.
How to spot it on a label
Look for the words fragrance or parfum anywhere on an ingredient list. These are the terms that indicate synthetic fragrance is present regardless of how natural or clean the rest of the formula appears to be.
A product can be marketed as natural, organic, or even clean and still contain synthetic fragrance. The marketing on the front of the packaging does not always reflect what is listed on the back.
Reading ingredient lists is one of the most empowering habits you can build as a skincare consumer.
What we choose and why
At Arise + Glow, we are deliberate about fragrance. We believe your skin should never have to work harder because of what we put in our products.
Where we use scent, it comes from natural sources and is used with care and intention. We are always mindful of skin sensitivity and the importance of keeping our formulas as clean and compatible with the skin as possible.
Because skincare should support your skin. Not quietly work against it.
Read more about our ingredients and what goes into every Arise + Glow product over on the Journal.
References
- Skin Sensitization Induction Potential From Daily Exposure to Fragrances in Personal Care Products. PubMed / Dermatitis, 2018. PubMed
- Skin exposure to scented products and fragrance contact allergy in the European general population. PMC / National Institutes of Health. PMC
- The impact of perfumes and cosmetic products on human health: a narrative review. PMC, 2025. PMC
- Fragrance as the most common cosmetic allergen affecting sensitive skin. National Eczema Association. View here
The information in this article is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you have a specific skin concern or condition, we recommend consulting a qualified dermatologist or healthcare professional.