When you hear the word “fragrances”,what comes to mind? Whether in food, packaging or cosmetics, what images are conjured by this simple word? We keep hearing about the dangers of fragrances, and we’ve even written a couple articles on them! From air pollution to putting our own health at risk, we really need to rethink the scents we love to wear. Fragrances have been linked to allergens, hormone disruptors, asthma triggers, and carcinogens, and thankfully, these concerns are slowly becoming mainstream conversations. Quite honestly, the easiest way to avoid these issues often caused by artificial fragrances is to simply buy scent-free products and avoid ingredients that generically list ‘fragrance’ as a component. Understandably, you may not want to adorn your natural odor at-all-times, and sometimes you might even want to smell a little fancier than usual, So the better alternative is to consider all-natural perfumes or you can try making your own fragrance! DIY cosmetics are on the rise, especially as many people got in touch with their crafty sides during the pandemic quarantine.
So why are fragrances so harmful? First off a lot of fragrances aren’t required to list ingredients on their labels. In addition to that a majority of the ingredients, more than 80 percent, aren’t tested for human safety. So where does this bring us? Well the EWG found that 75 percent of products that have ‘fragrance” on their ingredient list include phthalates. Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more durable and are used in products ranging from toys to vinyl flooring to packaging and even polish. So the problem with phthalates, they disrupt our hormones!! Other countries have banned the carcinogen and some studies have found that they can reduce our health. Fragrances have had studies where they cause asthma, other respiratory issues, migraines, nausea, skin and eye irritation and much more. Currently there are loopholes in the laws against these chemicals however organizations are working towards policy reform from the US government, so there is hope for a future without these harmful carcinogens, but for now read below to see what you can do to avoid phthalates and other harmful parts of fragrances.
If you aren’t as committed to making your own personalized fragrances, you can check out some “Eco-Friendly” brands such as Skylar, Maison Louis Marie, Phlur, Pour le Monde, IME, Henry Rose, By Rosie Jane, One Seed, Providence Perfume, Kimberley New York, and Lavanila. These brands are marketed as eco-friendly and natural, but always err on the side of caution; be sure to check the ingredients list, and swatch-test on a patch of skin to avoid full-on reactions. Just because something is branded “natural” doesn’t necessarily mean it is better/safer for you, if they still contain ingredients that can cause adverse reactions to YOU. In reality, the safest option for folks who suffer acute reactions to artificial fragrances is to avoid all products with fragrances. Alternatively, you can go for some plant-based essential oils in moderation, as they can still cause irritations and may be considered toxic to some.
Now, if you are committed to the Do-It-Yourself approach, there are multiple options for you; from oil-based, to plant-based, to pure perfumes, and even the most basic of approaches…flowers! An oil based natural perfume can be made from olive, jojoba, or coconut oil mixed with alcohol, such as vodka, a safe essential oil of your choice, and distilled water. If you are unsure about scent combination options, there are simple recipes such as the ‘Forest Fairies Blend’ or a Vanilla and essential oil combination. Alternatively, if you are considering a perfume with no oils then you can opt for plant-based concoctions! This aloe based mist seems ideal as a light summer fragrance. You can also combine your favorite scents from flowers, fruits, and spices and steep them in alcohol or water for a great DIY perfume recipe. A less commonly known option is a solid perfume -which can be made from beeswax, or other natural waxes that are mixed with essential oils.
I hope you enjoy trying out these recipes, and remember that beauty is beyond skin deep! #BeautyBeyondSkinDeep.