Although fragrances may help transport your senses to a tropical island or a floral garden, the reality is that they aren’t actually all that great for your skin. Instead of cleansing or nourishing your complexion, products that contain fragrance are more apt to create irritation and redness, while even causing more frustrating skin issues such as breakouts.
“Skin irritation, allergic reactions, rosacea flares, inflammation that can trigger acne, itchy or runny eyes, even swelling of the eyelids or lips can all be triggered by fragrances in products,” warns board certified dermatologist, Erum N. Ilyas, MD, MBE, FAAD. People with less sensitive skin may be spared the side effects of scented products, but if you’ve consistently struggled with skin issues, the first ingredient you should be on the lookout for is fragrance.
When picking out your next cleanser, toner, or moisturizer, checking to make sure the product is labelled as “fragrance free” is the best way to ensure you’re saving your skin from irritation. “The word “unscented” does not necessarily mean there is no fragrance. Unscented just means there is not a noticeable scent,” notes Ilyas.
“There could actually be scent or fragrance added to mask the scent of the ingredients. Products listed as “fragrance free” may actually have a noticeable smell but it's only because fragrance was not added to mask the scent of the other ingredients.” Artificial scents are more cause for concern on your skin than the presence of scent itself, so make sure to keep track of the wording on product labels so as not to fall victim to unscented items.
It should not come as a shock that scented products can cause issues with your skin--they’re actually a known irritant which can even cause similar reactions to allergies in the body. According to Everyday Health, an irritant can be defined as “a chemical or product that causes symptoms without a known immunologic cause.”
Therefore, though an irritant cannot cause an actual allergic reaction that puts your immune system at risk, it can cause frustrating symptoms such as headaches, sneezing, and contact dermatitis or skin redness and a rash. While keeping products with fragrance in your routine might not put your health at risk in the long term, they can cause entirely preventable reactions which may be the root of any issues you’re having with your skin.
Fragrance can feel like a luxurious addition to your skincare routine, but when it comes to preserving a flawless complexion you’ll be better served keeping the scent to your perfumes and off your face. Causing redness, irritation, and even breakouts, scented skincare items can take away from the beneficial ingredients, negating the positive effects of your products and doing nothing good for your skin. Instead, focus on finding fragrance free skincare items to nourish and improve your skin, reducing irritation for a clearer, smoother, and well cared for complexion.