Ingredient · Updated
Fragrance (Parfum)
Found in 50 productsSee all
Mama's Extract by Apple Pink & Green Lip Balm 
OSEA Anti-Aging Body Balm - Ulta Beauty 
Salt & Stone Natural Deodorant - Bergamot & Hinoki 
Salt & Stone Deodorant - Neroli & Basil 
e.l.f. Squeeze Me Lip Balm - Strawberry 
SheaMoisture Bar Soap Coconut & Hibiscus Glowing Radiance 
OSEA Undaria Algae Body Wash - Travel Size - Ulta Beauty 
Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian Vanilla What is Fragrance (Parfum)?
Fragrance, also listed as parfum, is a complex mixture of aromatic ingredients used to give products a distinctive scent. These ingredients can be derived from natural sources, such as essential oils, or created synthetically.
It is commonly used across a wide range of personal care products to enhance their sensory appeal. Concerns exist regarding potential allergens in some fragrance compounds, but the health evidence is complex as reactions can vary greatly between individuals.
When you see fragrance or parfum on a product label, it can represent a range of ingredients, including those that might not be listed separately due to trade secret protections.
Commonly found in: Body Lotion, Deodorant, Lip Care, Sunscreen, Hair Care, Body Care
What to watch
- Some compounds in fragrances have been linked to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
- The specific composition of a fragrance is often not disclosed, which may concern consumers with allergies or sensitivities.
The FDA regulates fragrance ingredients under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, but specific ingredients in a fragrance may not need to be listed on labels.
Studies indicate that while most individuals use fragranced products without issue, some may experience allergic reactions or sensitivities.
Fragrances can be derived from animal or plant sources; vegan status depends on the specific ingredients used.
Sources: Fragrance Ingredients and Regulations · Health Effects of Fragranced Consumer Products
Scout's take
Undisclosed proprietary blend that can legally contain 1000+ chemicals including phthalate carriers and EU-26 allergens. Top trigger for cosmetic contact dermatitis.
The case against
Fragrance can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Saltair Multi-Lipid Replenishing Body Butter - Salt Water Vanilla · echoed in 4 other analysesFragrance can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and sensitivity, especially in those with sensitive skin.
from the analysis of Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula® with Vitamin E Daily Body Lotion Tahitian Vanilla · echoed in 1 other analysisFragrance can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, and may contain phthalates linked to health concerns.
from the analysis of Salt & Stone Deodorant - Neroli & BasilSynthetic fragrances can cause allergic reactions and may contain harmful chemicals.
from the analysis of Method Daily Shower Spray Eucalyptus MintFragrance can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and contact dermatitis.
from the analysis of Sukin 455431 Botanical Body Wash Lime CoconutThe case for
It provides a pleasant scent to the product.
from the analysis of e.l.f. Squeeze Me Lip Balm - Strawberry · echoed in 4 other analysesIt provides a pleasant scent to the product, enhancing user experience.
from the analysis of Salt & Stone Deodorant - Neroli & Basil · echoed in 3 other analysesThere are no significant benefits as it is primarily used for scent.
from the analysis of Drift Car Scent Wood Refill Open AirIt enhances the sensory experience of using the product.
from the analysis of Saltair Multi-Lipid Replenishing Body Butter - Salt Water VanillaMore from Scout's analyses
Undisclosed fragrance blend — can contain dozens of unlisted synthetic chemicals including phthalates and known allergens. A major contributor to contact dermatitis and one of the most common reasons hand sanitizers irritate sensitive skin.
from the analysis of Touchland Power Mist Hydrating Hand SanitizerUndisclosed fragrance blend. US labeling law allows manufacturers to hide hundreds of un-itemized compounds behind a single 'Fragrance' word, including phthalates (plasticizers/endocrine disruptors), IFRA-restricted allergens, and synthetic musks. Without a fully itemized scent disclosure there is no way to verify the formula is free of these.
from the analysis of Native Coconut & Vanilla Moisturizing ShampooUndisclosed fragrance mixture — the most common allergen/irritant flag in personal care.
from the analysis of Schmidt's Rose & Vanilla Natural DeodorantAll 50 products with Fragrance (Parfum)
+ 26 more products in the Scout app
Where Fragrance (Parfum) shows up
- Deodorant 10 products
- Body Lotion 9 products
- Hair Care 9 products
- Lip Care 6 products
- Hand Sanitizer 5 products
- Sunscreen 5 products
Higher-scoring picks without Fragrance (Parfum)
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Fragrance (Parfum), scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.