Transparency in Fragrance Labeling: Why It Matters and What the Future Holds

Fragrance is a common term used in the cosmetics industry to describe a mixture of chemicals that create a certain scent in a product. "Fragrance" can also be used as a catch-all for a wide range of potentially harmful ingredients, including allergens, hormone and endocrine disruptors and other potential long term health concerns.

For decades, fragrance labeling laws have protected trade secrets, which made it difficult for consumers to know the specific ingredients used in a product's fragrance. However, with modern science allowing for the reverse engineering of formulas, it is time for the future of the fragrance development - transparent fragrance formulas.

Transparency in fragrance labeling is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it allows consumers to make informed choices about the products they use. When consumers have access to information about a product's fragrance ingredients, they can choose products that are safer and healthier for themselves and their families.

Additionally, transparency promotes accountability across the supply chain. When manufacturers are transparent about their fragrance ingredients, they are more likely to use safer ingredients in their products, knowing that consumers can see what they are using. This, in turn, promotes greater responsibility among manufacturers and suppliers, as they are held accountable for the ingredients they use.

A 2018 survey conducted by the Environmental Working Group found that nearly half of the tested fragrances contained at least one chemical that was identified as a potential hormone disruptor. Another study conducted by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found that many fragrances contained toxic chemicals that were not listed on the product label.

We want to lead the charge in fragrance disclosure and pave a future focused on transparency and accountability. Consumers have the right to know what is in the products they use, and transparency in fragrance labeling is the way of the future.