The Hidden Dangers of Synthetic Fragrance in Skincare: Why Fragrance-Free Matters

When it comes to caring for your skin, what you put on it matters just as much as what you put in your body, and the ingredients in your products can make all the difference to your skin’s health. Fragrance might seem harmless—after all, who doesn’t love a sweet-smelling lotion or serum?—but dig a little deeper, and you’ll uncover the hidden allergens lurking in synthetic scented products as well as the potential health risks.

At OmMade Organic Skincare, we believe in keeping things simple, pure, and safe for your skin, which is why our products are free of synthetic fragrances and, instead, naturally scented from the herbal ingredients and essential oils used, which provide an abundance of therapeutic benefits. Our brand was established on the philosophy “If you can’t eat it, don’t put it on your skin”, and it’s something we still stand by today.

So, why is synthetic fragrance-free so important? How can you tell if your products are free of synthetic fragrances? And who should be using products free of synthetic fragrances?
Read on to find out more. 

What Is Fragrance In Skincare?

Fragrance in skincare refers to a mixture of chemicals or natural compounds added to products to enhance their scent. While it’s often labelled as “fragrance” or “parfum”, this single term can conceal hundreds of ingredients—many of which are synthetic—including a variety of chemicals designed to mimic natural scents or mask unpleasant odours from raw materials used in formulations.

Unlike food products, skincare companies are not required to disclose all the ingredients that make up a fragrance, and this lack of transparency can make it difficult for consumers to know exactly what they’re putting on their skin. Also, fragrance isn't always about smell; it’s sometimes added to enhance a product’s appeal, even when it serves no functional skincare purpose.

Hidden Truths About Fragrance:

• A single word like “parfum” can represent up to 3,000 different chemicals.

• Fragrance compounds can include known allergens and irritants.

• The term “unscented” doesn’t mean fragrance-free; it often means masking agents have been added.

The Difference Between Fragrance-Free and Unscented

It’s easy to confuse “fragrance-free” with “unscented,” but the two terms have very different meanings. We break it down for you below. 

• Fragrance-free: This means that no fragrances—synthetic or natural—have been added to the product—it’s a pure formulation with no scent-enhancing agents.

• Unscented: These products may not smell like anything, but they often include chemicals designed to neutralise the natural scent of raw ingredients, and it’s these neutralising agents that can still cause irritation or allergic reactions.

At OmMade Organic Skincare, we’re serious about what we put in our products and only use ingredients that offer benefits to the skin. Our products contain no additional synthetic fragrances or masking agents that can be harmful and, instead, include naturally derived essential oils—ensuring they’re safe to use, even for the most sensitive skin types.

Why Can Synthetic Fragrance Be Harmful?

While it might smell lovely, synthetic fragrance is one of the leading causes of irritation in skin care, and the hidden risks can be significant—especially for those with sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Fragrances are considered “volatile” compounds, meaning they release particles into the air that can be absorbed by the skin or inhaled.

Potential Dangers of Synthetic Fragrance:

• Skin sensitivities: Synthetic fragrance is a known trigger for allergic contact dermatitis, causing redness, itching, and rashes.

• Long-term sensitisation: Regular use of synthetic-fragranced products can lead to long-term skin sensitisation, where your skin becomes more reactive over a period of time.

• Respiratory irritation: The volatile nature of synthetic fragrances means they can be inhaled, potentially triggering migraines, asthma, or sinus issues.

• Endocrine disruption: Certain synthetic fragrance compounds, like phthalates, are linked to hormone disruption, which can affect overall health.

Even for those without noticeable sensitivities, the accumulation of these compounds over time can lead to subtle, long-term effects on skin and health.

Key Chemicals to Avoid in Skincare

It’s hard to know what to look out for when shopping for skincare. With brands and products “trending” on TikTok, influencing teens and tweens as young as twelve, it’s crucial to educate yourself and be mindful of harmful chemicals that can appear on labels. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

• Parabens (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben): Linked to hormone disruption and potential health risks.

• Phthalates: Often used in fragrances, these are known endocrine disruptors.

• Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES): Harsh detergents that can strip skin of natural oils.

• Synthetic fragrances (labelled as “fragrance” or “parfum”): Contain multiple undisclosed chemicals.

• Formaldehyde releasers (e.g., DMDM hydantoin): Preservatives that release small amounts of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

• Mineral oil and petrolatum: Can clog pores and are often derived from petroleum, raising environmental concerns.

By avoiding these chemicals, you’re taking a proactive step toward healthier, more nourished skin.

How to Know if a Product is Free of Synthetic Fragrances

Navigating ingredient lists can be tricky, but knowing what to look for makes it easier to choose products free of synthetic fragrances. 

In regulatory contexts like the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI), essential oils, although natural, are still considered “fragrances” on ingredient listings, so it’s important to understand the difference between synthetic and natural to avoid confusion. 

We advise you to always read labels carefully and to avoid or be cautious of anything with these ingredients:

• Fragrance or parfum (check for synthetic fragrances)

• Limonene, linalool, or geraniol

• Citral

• Masking agents (common in “unscented” products)

At OmMade Organic Skincare, our products are organic, palm oil-free, and synthetic fragrance-free. We’re committed to transparency, and all our products are clearly labelled, so you know exactly what’s inside and what you’re putting on your skin. 

Who Should Use Synthetic Fragrance-Free Skincare?

You may think that using skincare products free of synthetic fragrances benefits only those with sensitive skin, but it really is a healthier choice for everyone. Here’s why different groups can benefit:

• Sensitive skin types: Those prone to redness, irritation, or conditions like eczema or rosacea will find synthetic fragrance-free products less likely to trigger flare-ups.

• Allergy-prone individuals: Fragrances are a common allergen, so avoiding them reduces the risk of reactions.

• Minimalists and purists: If you prefer clean, simple skincare without unnecessary additives, choosing products free of synthetic fragrances is the way to go. 

• Pregnant or nursing women: Reducing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals is especially important during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

While some people’s skin tolerates fragranced products without immediate issues, using synthetic fragrance-free skincare ensures you’re proactively protecting your skin from potential harm.

The Benefits of Going Free of Synthetic Fragrances

Switching to fragrance-free skincare comes with several benefits for your skin’s health, overall well-being, and even the environment. By choosing fragrance-free, you’re prioritising both your health and the health of the planet. Here’s why it’s a smarter choice for all individuals:

• Gentler on skin: By eliminating irritants, fragrance-free products reduce the risk of redness, rashes, and long-term sensitivity.

• Healthier formulations: Fragrance-free products are often more straightforward and focused on delivering active ingredients without hidden harmful chemicals that can be absorbed or inhaled.

• Environmental impact: Synthetic fragrances often involve non-renewable resources and can contribute to environmental pollution.

• Suitable for everyone: From babies to adults with mature skin, fragrance-free products cater to a wide range of skin types and concerns with no hidden nasties and just good-for-you ingredients. 

OmMade’s Commitment to Synthetic Fragrance-Free Skincare

At OmMade Organic Skincare, we believe in creating products that are as kind to your skin as they are to the planet. Our synthetic fragrance-free range is crafted with the purest ingredients, ensuring every formula is safe, gentle, and effective, but that doesn’t mean they’re entirely scentless. We use natural, skin-loving ingredients like jojoba oil and essential oils in their purest form—free of synthetic compounds—and our products still retain the subtle, natural scent of their raw ingredients without masking agents.

By focusing on pure, organic ingredients, our products deliver real results without the hidden allergens. From our gentle cleansers to nourishing moisturisers, we prove that skincare can be effective, safe, and luxurious—all at the same time.

How to Transition to Skincare Free of Synthetic Fragrances

Switching to synthetic fragrance-free products doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some tips to make the transition smoother:

1. Audit your current products: Check ingredient labels for terms like “fragrance” or “parfum” and identify any key chemicals to avoid, gradually phasing out these synthetic fragranced items.

2. Start small: Begin with essentials like cleansers and moisturisers, as these have the most contact with your skin.

3. Patch test: Even with products free of synthetic fragrances, patch test on a small area of skin to ensure compatibility.

4. Stick to trusted brands: Opt for brands like OmMade that are committed to transparency and quality.

By taking these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of synthetic fragrance-free skincare without disrupting your routine.

The Last Word

When it comes to skincare, the saying “less is more” could not be more true.

By ditching synthetic fragrances, you’re saying no to hidden allergens and yes to healthier, happier skin. With OmMade Organic Skincare, you can rest easy knowing your routine is as pure as it is effective.

Ready to make the switch? Explore our range of synthetic fragrance-free skincare today and discover the difference for yourself.