If you walk through any skincare or beauty aisle, you'll see the labels reading "fragrance-free" and "unscented." Although they may sound alike, they're not interchangeable. When you suffer from allergic skin or sensitive eyes or prefer a clean, natural look, it's essential to know the distinction.
In this blog, we'll explain these commonly misunderstood terms, examine their impact on the skin, and assist you in making better choices regarding your skincare and makeup routine.
"Fragrance-free" means that no scent ingredients were added to the recipe, whether for scent or to disguise the smell of the other ingredients. This can include:
The products with the fragrance-free label are perfect for people who suffer from scent sensitivities like eczema and rosacea or for anyone trying to avoid irritating substances.
Very Important: If a food item does have a scent but is free of scent if the fragrance comes directly from the ingredient (e.g., oatmeal, oats shea butter, oil) and no fragrance has been added.
"Unscented" products are formulated to have no distinct scent. However, it doesn't mean that they're fragrance-free.
Manufacturers can add scent or masking agents to eliminate the aroma of the raw ingredients and ensure that the finished product is not scented.
It is often not understood that while products without scents can appear neutral, they may contain ingredients that cause reactions.
Fragrance is among the most common allergens used in products for personal care. In the opinion of the American Academy of Dermatology, contact dermatitis caused by scent is becoming more common.
Fragrance-related reactions may include:
If you have sensitive skin, a fragrance-free option is usually best. Natural oils can also be skin sensitizers for extended periods.
Some unscented products contain "masking fragrances" designed to disguise the scent of components like sulfur, zinc oxide, or extracts of botanicals.
However, the regulations do not always make it mandatory for brands to reveal this information as part of the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) list. The ingredients could appear in the form of:
Certain companies might even declare the product "unscented" while using aromatic ingredients to give an unscented experience.
You shouldn't solely rely on the label on the front. Turn the bottle over to look over the ingredients list. Some red flags to look out for are:
Although an item is labeled "unscented," the presence of these ingredients means that it could have components that can irritate sensitive skin.
You should not see any fragrance-related ingredients added to the list to ensure the product is fragrance-free.
There is eczema, psoriasis, or skin sensitivity.
It is possible to experience migraines or allergic reactions
It is recommended to stay clear of all-natural and synthetic aroma ingredients
If you're expecting and are avoiding essential oils
It is preferred to use products with zero scent; however, they aren't sensitive to scent components
Then, you're applying antiperspirants or deodorants, for which odor concealing is crucial.
It's not especially sensitized, but I would prefer a moderate formula.
For general skin safety, dermatologists advise scent-free products as the best option, especially regarding facial skin care, infant products, and intimate hygiene.
With consumers becoming more aware of their ingredients, brands are responding with:
This also impacts regulations, encouraging the use of more precise standards for labeling scents used in products for personal care across the globe.
|
Feature |
Fragrance-Free |
Unscented |
|
Added Fragrance |
No added fragrance or masking agents |
May include fragrance to mask odor |
|
Natural Scent |
Only from raw ingredients |
Minimal scent, sometimes masked |
|
Suitable for Sensitive Skin |
Highly recommended |
Use with caution |
|
Scent Detection |
May have a natural odor |
Designed to be neutral or odorless |
For cosmetics and skincare, "fragrance-free" and "unscented" do not mean the same, and the distinction between them can affect the health of your skin. Although products that are not scented might appeal to people who don't like strong scents, they still contain substances that could irritate them.
Fragrance-free is a safer choice if you have sensitive skin or want transparency in ingredients.
Knowing these terms will allow you to make more intelligent purchases, such as hidden irritants, and pick products that suit your health and beauty objectives.
