Fragrances

Spotlight: Fragrances in cosmetic products are critically debated because they can cause allergies.

What are the functions of fragrances in cosmetics?

• They convey a pleasant odour impression
• They cover undesired inherent odours of other substances

Where do fragrances in cosmetics come from?

• Natural origin or synthetic production

What are the concerns?

• Fragrances and their mixtures can result in hypersensitivity reactions
• Asthmatic and sensitive persons can have health problems caused by fragrances, such as those used in room scents or spread through excessive perfuming

How can allergic persons inform themselves?

• Fragrance mixtures in cosmetic products are identified with the designation “Perfume”
• Since 2003: 26 fragrances are displayed individually when used in cosmetics
  • Background: allergic reactions occur more frequently than for other substances
  • Labelling only when exceeding certain values in the product (e.g., in shampoo more than 0.01%; in lotions, make-up or sunscreen products more than 0.001%).

Which fragrance mixtures are particularly relevant?

• In medical examinations, two so-called fragrance mixes are frequently tested
  • Fragrance mix I: amyl cinnamal, Evernia prunastri, eugenol, geraniol, hydroxycitronellal, isoeugenol, cinnamal and cinnamyl alcohol
  • Fragrance mix II: citral, citronellol, coumarin, farnesol and hexyl cinnamal
• What makes sense in the event of a positive test result for one of the fragrance mixes: more detailed testing of the individual substances to be able to clearly delimit the causes of an allergic reaction.