Fragrance is defined as a combination of organic compounds that produces a distinct smell or odor
. It is used in a wide range of products, including cosmetics, toiletries, household, laundry, air fresheners, candles, and incense products
. Fragrances are created using five classes of compounds: alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, esters, and lactones
. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates fragrance ingredients as cosmetics, but does not approve or test cosmetic products before they are available for sale
. While most fragrance chemicals are not disclosed, some are linked to serious health problems such as cancer, reproductive and developmental toxicity, allergies, and sensitivities
. Common adverse effects of fragrance exposure may include headaches, eye, nose, and throat irritation, nausea, and irritant and allergic contact dermatitis
. The chemical substances in some fragrances can cause contact allergic dermatitis in sensitized individuals
. The fragrance ingredients are typically only indicated by the term "fragrance" or "parfum" on product labels, as the chemical components are protected as trade secrets
. If you are concerned about the ingredients in your products, there are many beauty brands that do not use fragrance and disclose every aspect of their product's ingredients
