Perfume

Fragrances are a blend of aromatic substances that give cosmetic products their characteristic scent. They can be obtained from natural sources such as flowers, leaves, wood, or plant spices, or produced synthetically for the precise reproduction of scents and greater stability. In modern cosmetics, bio extracts from certified plants are often used, combined with synthetic molecules to achieve safety and consistency. These blends allow a wide range of scents, from fresh citrus to heavy oriental notes, while synthetic fragrances minimize the risk of allergies caused by natural impurities.

Fragrance acts as a sensory element that enhances the user experience of a product by masking the characteristic odors of raw materials such as oils or emulsifiers. The mechanism lies in its interaction with olfactory receptors, which triggers emotions and memories, thereby encouraging long-term use of cosmetics. It also has a soothing effect through aromatherapy, where certain ingredients such as lavender or lemon extract reduce stress. Typical concentrations range from 0.1% to 5% depending on the product — lower in creams, higher in perfumed waters — to avoid irritation.

It is recommended especially for normal to oily skin that tolerates scents without drying out, but it should be avoided on sensitive or acne-prone skin, where it may trigger inflammation. It is ideal for young skin without problems, mature skin seeking relaxation, or dehydrated skin in combination with hydrating ingredients. Fragrances are suitable for users who appreciate the aesthetic side of cosmetics, but not for those with atopic dermatitis.

A study published in the Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (2018) showed that fragranced products at a concentration of 1% caused irritation in 12% of tested individuals with sensitive skin after 4 weeks of use. Further research in Contact Dermatitis (2020) confirmed that synthetic linalool in fragrances at a dose of 0.5% caused sensitization in 8.5% of subjects over 6 weeks, highlighting the need for testing. These figures underline the importance of hypoallergenic formulations.