There are several reasons why both stylists and consumers are making the switch to clean beauty products. One of the primary drivers is the harmful effects of synthetic fragrances, which can negatively impact overall health and well-being. Synthetic fragrances are created in laboratories using chemicals derived from petroleum, coal tar, or other artificial sources, while natural fragrances are derived from natural sources such as flowers, fruits, herbs, spices, and essential oils.
As a result, many are choosing products with natural fragrances to enjoy a pleasant sensory experience without the harmful side effects. Discover why more stylists and clients are choosing clean, fragrance-free formulations and how you can make informed choices when selecting beauty products.
Health Impact
Many conventional beauty products contain undisclosed synthetic fragrances, which are linked to health concerns ranging from mild irritation to serious long-term effects. The term “fragrance” or “parfum” on an ingredient list can represent a mix of over 3,000 undisclosed chemicals, many of which are known irritants and endocrine disruptors.
Scientific Findings on Synthetic Fragrances
- Hormone Disruption – A 2021 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that phthalates—commonly used in synthetic fragrances—can interfere with hormone function, leading to reproductive and developmental issues.
- Respiratory Risks – The American Lung Association states that volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in synthetic fragrances can contribute to indoor air pollution and trigger asthma and respiratory distress.
- Skin & Neurological Reactions – Research from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) links synthetic fragrance chemicals like benzophenone and toluene to allergies, skin irritation, and even potential neurotoxicity.
Why It Matters for Stylists
- Daily exposure to airborne synthetic fragrances in the salon can contribute to chronic headaches, hormone imbalance, and respiratory irritation for both stylists and clients.
- Stylists working in enclosed spaces with poor ventilation are at a higher risk of exposure to these airborne toxins.
By choosing products formulated with natural, non-toxic alternatives, stylists can reduce health risks while creating a more breathable and safe salon environment.
Understanding Fragrance: Synthetic vs. Natural
Synthetic fragrances are lab-created and often contain petroleum-based chemicals, which are used to mimic natural scents or create unique, long-lasting aromas. These fragrances are designed for intensity and longevity, but their chemical composition can lead to irritation and accumulation in the body over time.
In contrast, natural fragrances come from plant-derived sources such as essential oils, botanicals, and naturally occurring compounds. They offer a softer, more subtle scent that evolves with wear, rather than lingering artificially.
| Synthetic Fragrances | Natural Fragrances |
| Created in a lab from petroleum byproducts | Derived from essential oils, flowers, fruits, and plants |
| Often contains phthalates, parabens, and VOCs | Free from synthetic preservatives and artificial stabilizers |
| Can trigger allergies, asthma, and hormone disruption | Generally safer but may still cause sensitivities in some clients |
| Strong, long-lasting scent | More subtle, fades naturally |
| Lack of ingredient transparency | Typically lists all fragrance ingredients |
Ingredient Transparency
One of the biggest issues with synthetic fragrances is the lack of transparency. In the U.S., the FDA does not require brands to disclose fragrance ingredients, allowing companies to label them as “fragrance” or “parfum” without revealing the chemical makeup.
A 2018 study by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found that over 75% of fragrance-containing beauty products tested contained undisclosed toxic ingredients. These included:
- Benzophenone-3 – a potential carcinogen.
- Toluene – linked to headaches, dizziness, and long-term nervous system damage.
- Diethyl phthalate (DEP) – a known endocrine disruptor that has been restricted in some countries but remains legal in the U.S.
In contrast, clean beauty brands that use natural fragrances often provide full disclosure of ingredients. Look for certifications like EWG Verified, Leaping Bunny, or Made Safe, which indicate safer ingredient profiles and transparency in labeling.
Understanding the differences between synthetic and natural fragrances empowers you to make informed decisions for your salon business and clients. As our awareness of beauty formulations and their impact on health grows, we can adjust our product selections to promote a healthier lifestyle. Natural fragrances enable companies to utilize transparent, low-toxic formulations that deliver beautiful results while minimizing harm to our skin, bodies, and respiratory systems. By making small changes, like choosing natural fragrances over synthetic ones, we can significantly improve our overall health and well-being.
