Understanding the Impact of Fragrance on Allergies

Understanding the Impact of Fragrance on Allergies

If you have ever had a bad reaction to fragrance, I understand. I have been there too. I could not find a product that met my needs, so I made one. Now, I hope it can help you too.

Fragrances are found in nearly all skincare and cosmetic products. And while a scent may seem harmless, companies are not required to list the components in them. So fragrance and parfum can hide dozens of undisclosed ingredients. For those with allergies or a desire to avoid potentially harmful ingredients, this can be quite bad.

Take limonene. It is a fragrant compound found naturally in lemon peels. Sounds great… but is not for 1-3% of the population who are allergic to it. When exposed to air, limonene can oxidize and form hydroperoxides, compounds that can trigger allergic contact dermatitis in some people.

Plants, like lemon trees, release volatile organic compounds into the air to defend against predators and pests. So its easy to see how this could be a problem for our skin. The compound is meant to protect the plant from being eaten not to be made into a skincare product. There is a reason why when life throws you lemons, you make lemonade, not eat the peels.

The lesson is simple: natural does not always mean gentle. When making a product for your skin, it is important to consider how each ingredient is processed, how stable it is, and how it changes over time.

That is why I formulate products with ingredients that do not oxidize quickly and are not common allergens. If you are someone with an allergy and are looking for a natural remedy, Get in touch! I would love to hear your story and help you find a better fit!