Ingredient · Updated
Fragrances
Found in 6 products
What is Fragrances?
Fragrances are complex mixtures of natural and synthetic ingredients used to impart scent to products. They can be derived from essential oils or synthesized through chemical processes.
Fragrances are included in products to enhance sensory experience, masking unpleasant odors or adding a fresh, pleasant aroma. Health discussions around fragrances focus on potential allergic reactions or sensitivity in some individuals, though evidence is mixed and often varies by specific compound.
When it appears on a label, 'fragrances' often refers to a proprietary blend, meaning exact components are undisclosed. This can be important for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Commonly found in: home essentials, makeup, candles, cleaning products, air fresheners
What to watch
- Fragrances can cause allergic skin reactions in sensitive individuals.
- Some fragrance ingredients have been associated with respiratory irritation.
Benefits
- Enhances product appeal by adding a pleasant aroma.
Fragrances are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) but there are labeling regulations due to potential allergens.
Research shows some fragrance components can cause skin or respiratory irritation, with effects varying significantly between individuals.
Fragrances can sometimes include animal-derived ingredients; vegans should check specific product labels.
Sources: Fragrance Ingredients: Safety and Regulation · Review of Common Fragrance Allergens
Scout's take
Fragrances are added to cleaning products to provide a pleasant scent. However, they can be composed of numerous chemicals, some of which may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. The lack of transparency in fragrance ingredients is a concern for consumers.
The case against
Fragrances can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Arm & Hammer OxiClean Stain Fighters Detergent · echoed in 1 other analysisPotential allergens and skin sensitizers.
from the analysis of Gain OXI Original · echoed in 1 other analysisThere is a risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions due to the presence of synthetic chemicals.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Platinum Performance UltraShine Dishwasher Pacs Lemon CitrusMay cause allergic reactions and contribute to indoor air pollution.
from the analysis of Tide EVO Detergent Original ScentThe case for
Provides a pleasant scent to the product.
from the analysis of Gain OXI Original · echoed in 2 other analysesThey provide a pleasant scent to the product, enhancing user experience.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Platinum Performance UltraShine Dishwasher Pacs Lemon Citrus · echoed in 1 other analysisThey provide a pleasant scent to cleaning products.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Ultra Shine Platinum PerformanceMore from Scout's analyses
Synthetic fragrances are used to impart a pleasant scent to cleaning products. They can contain a mixture of chemicals, some of which may be allergens or irritants. They are often criticized for their potential to cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Platinum Performance UltraShine Dishwasher Pacs Lemon CitrusSynthetic fragrances are often composed of numerous chemicals, some of which can cause allergic reactions. They can also contribute to indoor air pollution. The lack of transparency in fragrance ingredients is a concern for sensitive individuals.
from the analysis of Tide EVO Detergent Original ScentFragrances are added to cleaning products to provide a pleasant scent. However, they can contain synthetic chemicals that may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation. They are often not fully disclosed, leading to potential health concerns.
from the analysis of Kirkland Signature Ultra Shine Platinum PerformanceAll 6 products with Fragrances
Where Fragrances shows up
- Laundry 4 products
- Dishwasher 2 products
Higher-scoring picks without Fragrances
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Fragrances, scoring 80 or above.
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