“Fragrance” is marketed as pleasant, calming, or refreshing — but the truth is, this single word on a label can mask hundreds of undisclosed chemicals.

⚠️ Key concerns:

• Phthalates – used to make scent last longer; known hormone disruptors.
• VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds): Chemicals like benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde that can irritate lungs and contribute to chronic health conditions.
• Synthetic musks and aldehydes: Linked to hormone disruption, allergies, and long-term bioaccumulation in fat and breast milk.

These substances aren’t limited to perfumes. They’re in laundry products, candles, plug-ins, sprays, deodorants, soaps, trash bags, and even diapers.

Because fragrance formulations are considered “trade secrets,” manufacturers don’t have to list the individual ingredients — even if some are known toxins or allergens.