An aroma or fragrance is a chemical compound that has a smell or odor. Aroma chemicals are compounds possessing a complex and distinct scent that enhances the aroma or fragrance of formulations they are infused in. They can be isolates of naturally sourced ingredients or chemically produced from petroleum that are used as ingredients to add aromas to various skincare, personal care, and cosmetic products. Fragrances are substances possessing strong-smelling organic compounds that have characteristic, pleasant odors. They are used in many products as a perfume, and we encounter them in the majority of cosmetics, toiletries, household, laundry, air fresheners, candles, and incense products we use frequently.
The ingredients used to create fragrances can be natural or synthetic. Natural compounds are derived from natural sources, often plants, by physical or biotechnological procedures to harness the ingredients. Synthetic aroma chemicals are also available in the market today, and the quality of these aroma chemicals stays consistent because of how they are formulated.
The impact of fragrances on products can be positive or negative. Aroma chemicals can enhance the aroma or fragrance of formulations they are infused in, and they are highly volatile with the ability to easily disperse any scent, which enhances the diffusive properties required to create long-lasting fragrances. However, some fragrance ingredients, especially phthalate ingredients, have raised concerns, and research does not show that exposure to a limited amount of phthalate ingredients, including fragrance ingredients, will cause harm. Additionally, some fragrances can be sensitizing, especially if they come from mint or citrus.
The ingredients used to create fragrances are not always disclosed on product labels. "Fragrance" or "Parfum" on an ingredient list is not technically an individual ingredient or chemical but rather an umbrella term that refers to all the compounds and chemicals that comprise a products fragrance. Companies are not required to disclose the individual fragrance elements as the fragrance "blend" is considered proprietary information. However, there are many beauty brands to choose from that do not use fragrance and disclose every aspect of their products ingredients.
