Our Commitment to Your Skin’s Well-being
In the world of cosmetics, fragrance has long been a staple ingredient, cherished for its ability to enhance the sensory experience of beauty products. However, emerging research and skincare experts are shedding light on the dark side of fragrance, revealing that it can be a common sensitizing ingredient for all skin types. At Arketia, we understand the importance of prioritizing your skin’s health and comfort. That’s why we are committed to offering fragrance-free makeup, providing an essential option for those who seek cosmetics without potentially problematic fragrances.
The Impact of Fragrance on Your Skin
Most fragrance ingredients work by imparting scent through a volatile reaction, a process that often leads to sensitising reactions on the skin. Numerous studies have established that fragranced skincare products are among the primary culprits behind sensitizing and negative skin responses. Importantly, this is not limited to individuals with sensitive or redness-prone skin; it affects all skin types and colours.
Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist, highlights the concerns associated with fragrance: “Fragrance has taken centre stage in the skincare conversation lately because of its link to inflammation and its effect on premature skin aging. Like exposure to ultraviolet light, chronic inflammation through exposure to sun, heat, or fragrance can increase oxidative stress, free radical formation, and degradation of collagen, promoting a skin texture that is not as firm or even as it should be.”
Even if your skin doesn’t exhibit immediate signs of irritation from fragranced products, it’s essential to recognize that the damage may be occurring silently beneath the surface, leading to minor issues in the short term and potentially severe problems in the long term. It’s similar to sun damage from neglecting sunscreen – the visible consequences often manifest years later.
Why Do Fragranced Products Persist?
The prevalence of fragrance in skincare and beauty products can be attributed to consumer preferences. People tend to favour products that smell pleasant, and cosmetic companies are well aware of the power of fragrance in influencing purchase decisions and enhancing the user experience.
Additionally, some cosmetic products have less-than-pleasing natural scents, making the addition of fragrance seem necessary. However, it’s important to note that there are alternatives to creating neutral-smelling or non-objectionable fragrance-free products without compromising quality.
Moreover, added fragrance can conceal the unpleasant odour that may develop in jar-packaged skincare products over time due to exposure to air and bacteria, especially when the ingredients are all-natural.
Understanding “Fragrance-Free” vs. “Unscented”
When it comes to labelling, the terms “fragrance-free” and “unscented” can be confusing for consumers. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, “Fragrance-free” means that fragrance materials or masking scents are not used in the product, while “unscented” generally implies that the product may contain chemicals that neutralize or mask other odours.
However, these terms are not consistently regulated, and their definitions can vary from brand to brand. Some products labelled as fragrance-free may still contain natural fragrance ingredients harmful to the skin, like essential oils. Conversely, unscented products may have sensitizing forms of fragrance in the formula.
Can Your Nose Detect the Difference?
Relying solely on your sense of smell to assess a product’s suitability for your skin is not foolproof. Some natural ingredients, like melon, vanilla, and cucumber, have pleasant fragrances and are skin-friendly. Others may appear odourless because fragrance is added to mask undesirable scents from other ingredients in the formula.
To navigate this complexity, it’s essential to refer to reliable resources such as the Skin Care Ingredient Dictionary to thoroughly research any ingredients you’re uncertain about. This resource provides information on whether an ingredient contains fragrance components that could irritate the skin.
At Arketia, we proudly declare that we never incorporate volatile or masking fragrances in our products. Our commitment is grounded in scientific research, ensuring that you receive the best possible care for your skin. We believe avoiding or minimising your skin’s exposure to fragrance is crucial for achieving and maintaining healthy, radiant skin.
In conclusion, fragrance-free makeup offers a safer and more skin-friendly option for beauty enthusiasts of all skin types. Arketia’s dedication to your skin’s well-being drives our decision to provide fragrance-free cosmetics, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of makeup without the risks associated with potentially problematic fragrances.
References:
International Journal of Toxicology, Volume 27, 2008, Supplement pages 1-43
Molecules, January 2021, pages 1-24
Allergologie Select, August 2017, pages 190–199
American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2003, issue 11, pages 789-798
Food and Chemical Toxicology, February 2008, pages 446—475
Biochimica and Biophysica Acta, May 2012, pages 1,410-1,419
Environmental Protection Agency, October 2016, ePublication
Aging, March 2012, pages 166-175
Biochimica and Biophysica Acta, May 2012, pages 1,410-1,419
Chemical Immunology and Allergy, March 2012, pages 77-80
Experimental Dermatology, October 2009, pages 821-832
Medicines, December 2016, pages 1–16
Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, 2008, issue 4, pages 191-202