What is Fragrance (parfum)?
Also known as: Parfum, Fragrance, Aroma, Koku
Short answer
Fragrance is a mixture that gives a product its scent and can be hidden under a single word ('parfum/fragrance') on the label. It is not toxic, but it is one of the most common causes of contact allergy and irritation, especially on sensitive skin. Fragrance-free products are a safer choice.
What is Fragrance (parfum) and what does it do?
The 'parfum' or 'fragrance' label can represent a mixture of dozens of scent molecules. The EU requires known fragrance allergens to be listed separately above a certain threshold (for example Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol); this list was expanded from 26 to about 80 substances in 2023. This is why 'fragrance-free' products are recommended for sensitive skin.
What is it for?
Fragrance's function is entirely sensory: it makes the product smell pleasant and masks the odor of raw materials. It has no benefit for the skin; it only improves the experience of use.
What to watch for
It is among the most common known causes of contact allergic dermatitis and irritation. The risk of reaction is higher on sensitive, dry, eczema-prone and acne-prone skin. 'Natural essence/essential oil' can also contain fragrance allergens; 'natural' does not automatically mean 'suitable for sensitive skin'. 'Fragrance-free' labels are the safest choice.
If you want to avoid it
If your skin is trouble-free, fragranced products are fine. If you have sensitivity, redness or an allergy history, choose fragrance-free products. Patch-test a new product on a small area of the inner arm first.
Products containing Fragrance (parfum)
- Gillette Clear Gel Cool Wave 70 MlGillette
- Le Petit Marseillais Çilek Duş Jeli 2x400 MlLe Petit Marseillais
- Le Petit Marseillais Şeftali Duş Jeli 2x400 MlLe Petit Marseillais
- Le Petit Marseillais Vanilya Sütü Duş Jeli 2X400 MlLe Petit Marseillais
- Wemara Sunset Simli Duş Jeli 1 LWemara
- Sandy Duş Jeli Dream 500 MlSandy
- Rexona Men Erkek Sprey Deodorant Invisible Black & White 150 mlRexona
- Rexona Kadın Sprey Deodorant Invisible Fresh Deep 150 mlRexona
- Rebul Magnolia Duş Jeli Unisex 500 MlRebul
- Axe Number 10 Erkek Deodorant 150 MlAxe
- Le Petit Marseillais Men Deniz Çamı & Okaliptüs Duş Jeli 400MlLe Petit Marseillais
- Old Spice Captain Erkek Terleme Önleyici Jel Deodorant 70 MlOld Spice
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Frequently asked
Is fragrance harmful to skin?
For most people no; but on sensitive skin it is one of the most common causes of irritation and allergy. If you have problems, switch to fragrance-free.
Is 'natural fragrance' safer?
Not necessarily. Natural essential oils can also contain the fragrance allergens the EU lists; being natural does not automatically make it safe on sensitive skin.
How do I spot fragrance on the label?
Look for the words 'Parfum', 'Fragrance', 'Aroma' and separately listed fragrance allergens like Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol.
Sources
This page is for general information; it is not medical/dietary advice. Personal suitability varies by skin type, allergies and health status.