There are 26 fragrance allergens recognized in the US and the EU. The fragrance allergist list has been selected based on extensive research of the European Commission.
You might never hear anyone talking about fragrance allergens. While allergens’ discussions in other beauty products are frequent, you rarely hear the fragrance community talking about them.
Part of the problem is the lack of extensive research. At the moment, the FDA uses an allergens list borrowed from the European Commission.
List of 26 fragrances allergens
- 3-Methyl-4(2,6,6-trimethyl-2-cyclohexen-1-yl)-3-buten-2-one (less documented)
- Amyl cinnamal (frequently reported)
- Amylcinnamyl alcohol (frequently reported)
- Anisyl alcohol (less documented)
- Benzyl alcohol (frequently reported)
- Benzyl benzoate (less documented)
- Benzyl cinnamate (less documented)
- Benzyl salicylate (frequently reported)
- Cinnamal (frequently reported)
- Cinnamyl alcohol (frequently reported)
- Citral (frequently reported)
- Citronellol (less documented)
- Coumarin (frequently reported)
- d-Limonene (less documented)
- Eugenol (frequently reported)
- Farnesol (less documented)
- Geraniol (frequently reported)
- Hexyl cinnamaldehyde (less documented)
- Hydroxycitronellal (frequently reported)
- Hydroxymethylpentyl-cyclohexenecarboxaldehyde (frequently reported)
- Isoeugenol (frequently reported)
- Lilial (less documented)
- Linalool (less documented)
- Methyl heptine carbonate (less documented)
- Oak moss
- Tree moss
These allergens or fragrance ingredients might still be used in fragrances today. However, there are clear limits to the maximum concentration they can be used in leave-on (fragrances) products.
What are fragrance allergies?
Fragrance allergies occur when you expose one of these ingredients to your skin in a sufficient amount, usually for a long period. Dermatitis is one of the allergic reactions of the immune system where the skin recognizes the potential allergic ingredient.
Diminishing the concentration and eliminating the use of the allergen normally makes the allergic reactions stop. In many cases, allergic fragrance reactions are life long and they can’t be treated or overlooked.
How do you treat fragrance allergies?
If you notice an allergic fragrance reaction, you need to stop using the fragrance and see your doctor. If your doctor is not available immediately, a qualified pharmacist can prescribe various allergy-control medication.
It’s best to see which ingredient you are allergic to before you start medical treatment. A blood test is a common method used in determining skin allergies. A patch test where a doctor applies a small quantity of allergen on the skin might be used alternatively.
How common are fragrance allergies?
Fragrance allergies frequency has been studied recently. Published research shows a minimum of 35.6% of people showed oak moss skin allergies.
What are the symptoms of fragrance allergy?
Dermatitis, breathing difficulties, trouble swallowing, lightheadedness, chest pain, weak pulse, nausea, and vomiting are symptoms of fragrance allergies.
Can perfume irritate eyes?
Fragrances can affect eyes, but this is rare as most allergies are found at a skin level. However, red eyes or tearing might be symptoms of eye fragrance allergies.
Does fragrance kill sperm?
Phthalates in fragrances known as Diethyl Phthalate have been studied for sperm health. Not all of them are detrimental. However, Diethyl Phthalate (a carrier for fragrance oils) can be associated with infertility, reduced sperm count, and reduced sperm mobility.
Why am I put off by perfumes?
Hypersomnia might be one of the causes of why you are overly sensitive to perfumes. The condition is interpreted as the opposite of loss of smell.
Final considerations
Fragrance allergens in the US and fragrance allergens in the EU are the same. The fragrance allergens list can be a good start for you to know this information if you suspect you can be susceptible to perfume allergies. You should be able to find these allergens on the label of the fragrance. If you are new to these elements, you can also read the fragrancespotter list of perfume ingredients.