Ingredient · Updated
Synthetic Fragrance
Found in 20 productsSee all
BELLEVUE Luxury Candles Monk Fruit & Vanilla 
Public Goods Cedar & Suede Soy Candle 
Clinique Cheek Pop Blush 
L'Oréal Hydra Perfecte Power Translucent 
Lancôme Blush Subtil Oil Free Powder Blush 
Natasha Denona Zendo Eyeshadow Palette 
Smashbox Step-by-Step Contour Kit 
Revolution Power Shadow Palette 90's Baby What is Synthetic Fragrance?
Synthetic Fragrance is a blend of chemical compounds created to mimic natural scents. These compounds are usually derived from petrochemicals and designed in a lab to produce a wide variety of smells, from floral to fruity.
Synthetic fragrances are used to add pleasant scents to products. However, their composition is often proprietary, making it difficult to identify potential allergens or irritants. Some studies suggest that certain synthetic fragrance compounds can trigger skin irritation and respiratory issues, but this varies significantly between individuals and products.
When you see Synthetic Fragrance on a label, it's important to be aware that it may contain a complex mix of ingredients, even though they're listed under one term. People with sensitivities should proceed with caution.
Commonly found in: Makeup, Baby Skin Care, Diapers & Wipes, Perfumes, Lotions, Detergents
What to watch
- Can cause skin irritation for sensitive individuals.
- Some research links fragrance compounds to respiratory issues.
- May contain a mix of chemicals, increasing exposure risk.
Benefits
- Provides a pleasant scent to consumer products.
The FDA does not require pre-market approval for fragrance ingredients except in color additives. Companies are responsible for ensuring safety.
Some studies highlight potential irritants in synthetic fragrances, while others find them safe under typical consumer use conditions.
Typically synthesized and not derived from animals, making it vegan-friendly. However, ethical considerations on testing may vary.
Sources: Fragrance Ingredients
Scout's take
Undisclosed blend of synthetic chemicals used for scent. May contain phthalates, musks, or other endocrine disruptors hidden under the 'fragrance' umbrella.
More from Scout's analyses
Undisclosed blend of synthetic chemicals. Unnecessary in an eyeshadow product and may contain phthalates or other endocrine disruptors.
from the analysis of Urban Decay Naked 2 Eyeshadow PaletteUndisclosed fragrance compounds may contain phthalates or sensitizing chemicals
from the analysis of BELLEVUE Luxury Candles Monk Fruit & VanillaAll 20 products with Synthetic Fragrance
Where Synthetic Fragrance shows up
Higher-scoring picks without Synthetic Fragrance
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Synthetic Fragrance, scoring 80 or above.
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