Is Fragrance toxic?
As more public and clinical spaces request that people be scent-free, it is important to understand the reasoning behind this shift. Most of us have had the unpleasant experience of standing near someone with a strong scent, whether from perfume, cologne, or heavily fragranced laundry products. While this can feel merely uncomfortable or nauseating, it can also trigger headaches and may have broader health implications.
Exposure to fragranced products has been associated with migraines, allergic and inflammatory reactions, and worsening symptoms in people with asthma or other lung conditions. Many scented products including skincare items like lotions and perfumes, hair care products such as shampoo, conditioner, and hairspray, and household items like detergents and fabric softeners contain synthetic chemicals that may negatively impact human health.
What’s Really in Fragrance—and Why It Matters
Many of the products we use daily are poorly regulated, and there is limited research evaluating the long-term safety of these synthetic fragrance chemicals. Existing studies have demonstrated associations between scented product exposure and allergic conditions, respiratory symptoms, endocrine disruption, and reproductive concerns. Complicating this further, the FDA does not require pre-market approval for products intended to cleanse the body or make a person smell pleasant.
In addition, ingredient labels often list only “fragrance” or “parfum,” making it difficult for consumers to know what a product actually contains. Because fragrance formulations are considered proprietary trade secrets, companies are not required to disclose their individual components. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), many fragrance blends contain phthalates, which have been linked to birth defects and decreased sperm motility. To extend shelf life, fragranced products may also contain parabens and phenols, chemicals that have been associated with reproductive concerns, preterm birth, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.
These substances are concerning because they can interfere with the body’s hormonal signaling; affecting metabolism, development, sleep, fertility, and reproduction. Because of this interference with normal hormone function, they are referred to as endocrine disruptors.
But what if it says its natural?
While ingredients derived from nature can be better options, they do not automatically guarantee a safer product. Terms like “green” and “natural” are often marketing tools rather than regulated claims and do not ensure higher safety or health standards. “Natural fragrance oils,” as opposed to essential oils, are frequently still synthetic and may contain chemicals such as phthalates. Even products made with essential oils may include other synthetic ingredients that are not fully disclosed on the label.
So what can be done?
One of the most effective steps you can take for your own health, and for the health of those around you, is to avoid products with added fragrance whenever possible. If eliminating fragranced products entirely is not realistic, the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep database can be a helpful tool for reviewing product safety. While complete avoidance may not be achievable, choosing safer alternatives and reducing overall exposure is a meaningful and practical step forward.
Citations:
Alblooshi S. The impact of perfumes and cosmetic products on human health: a narrative review. Front Toxicol. 2025;7:1646075. Published 2025 Aug 29. doi:10.3389/ftox.2025.1646075
EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning. www.ewg.org. https://www.ewg.org/cleaners/
Mariana M, Castelo-Branco M, Soares AM, Cairrao E. Phthalates’ exposure leads to an increasing concern on cardiovascular health. J Hazard Mater. 2023;457:131680. doi:10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131680
Parsons J, Wold L. How fragrances affect health, and ways to reduce exposure. health.osu.edu. Published July 6, 2023. https://health.osu.edu/health/general-health/how-fragrances-affect-health
