Using skincare products with pleasing aromas can feel like a great part of unwinding after a long day. For many of us, our skincare routines are a major part of self-care, and what better way to relax than with products that smell good, right?
We spoke with skincare experts— Dr. Cheryl Rosen, Director of Dermatology at BowTied Life and Ksenia Sobchak, London-based dermatologist and cosmetologist— and learned how synthetic fragrances can irritate aging skin, ultimately making them products to avoid. Read on for better alternatives, and to learn why your perfume is fine when scented, but products applied to your face shouldn’t be.
Harsh Effects That Synthetic Fragrances Have On Aging Skin
While natural fragrances derive from (you guessed it) nature, synthetic fragrances are created from man-made ingredients. The latter is often attributed to burning, itching, or peeling that you might experience with commonly scented skincare products (like moisturizers, cleansers, toners) and even makeup like lipstick or compact powder.
As we age, our skin becomes more sensitive, meaning rashes can occur from using scented products (that don’t need to be scented, since they aren’t perfume and that isn’t their main objective).
“Synthetic fragrances can contain hormone disrupting chemicals that are known to cause skin aging,” Rosen says, noting that these ingredients can cause skin irritation, inflammation, and oxidative damage, “all of which lead to accelerated aging.”
Sobchak adds that synthetic fragrances contain numerous compounds that are often “not indicated on the label.” The ingredients found in synthetic fragrances, she says, risk your chances of countless skin problems. “Most artificial fragrances trigger skin conditions such as eczema, irritation, rashes, and increased risk of diseases such as asthma and lung cancer,” says Sobchak.
To avoid the myriad of skin health difficulties caused by synthetically fragranced products, Rosen recommends finding ones with more natural ingredients. You’re better off using products on your face that are unscented— read on for tips and what to look for.
Fragrance-Free Product Recommendations
Rosen advises looking for skincare products that are free of these harsh scented ingredients, and instead focus on products that contain natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. “Ingredients like green tea extract, grape seed oil, rosehip oil, and vitamin C work to fight the signs of aging by scavenging free radicals and reducing inflammation,” she says.
Products that are labeled as “fragrance-free” are a great place to start for your anti-aging skincare routine— and remember to cleanse, moisturize and use serums recommended by your dermatologist to obtain glowing skin all year long.
