INCI: Parfum
An umbrella term for a blend of aromatic components. May contain dozens of allergenic substances. The leading contact allergen in cosmetics – triggers contact dermatitis in 1–4% of the population.
Topical application
CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus.
Not an active ingredient but an aesthetic additive. Epidemiological studies report contact allergy in 1–4% of the general population and up to 16% in dermatology clinic patients. In the EU, 26 fragrance allergens require mandatory labeling.
Fragrance (Parfum) is an umbrella term for the blend of aromatic components in cosmetics. A single word can hide from a few to hundreds of substances – natural essential oils, synthetic molecules, aroma chemistry, fixatives. Regulation. EU Regulation 1223/2009 Annex III mandates labeling of 26 potential fragrance allergens in the ingredient list above 0.001% in leave-on and 0.01% in rinse-off. From 2026 ESCD adds 56 more allergens to the mandatory list – 80+ compounds in total. Contact allergy. Fragrance ingredients are the leading contact allergen in cosmetics. ESCD 2024: patch-test reactions in 1-4% of the general population, up to 10-15% in patients with eczema and atopy. Often with "fragrance sensitivity" syndrome: headaches, nausea, eye irritation. Where applied. Nearly all color and skincare cosmetics, shampoos, soaps, shower gels, home products. In Spain fragrance-free lines include La Roche-Posay Toleriane, Avène, CeraVe, Eucerin. Safety. SCCS evaluates safety of individual fragrance components individually. IFRA sets concentration limits in finished products by category. Fragrance-free products may contain "masking fragrance" – small amounts of aroma to neutralize raw material odor. Under EU Regulation such products are labeled "sans parfum" or "fragrance-free" without mandatory ingredient disclosure. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. SEGO 2023 recommends fragrance-free formulas for sensitive skin, atopy, in the first trimester, and avoiding heavily fragranced products on the abdomen and breasts. For infants and children under 3 in Spain, fragrance-free exclusively is recommended.
Irritation potential
MediumAllergen risk
HighPregnancy
CautionFor sensitive skin
People with sensitive skin, eczema, and rosacea should avoid fragranced products. The label 'unscented' does not guarantee absence of masking fragrances.
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to Wildberries, Goldapple, Letu, iHerb, Sephora and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Fragrance (Parfum) should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Fragrance (Parfum) has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
Fragrance (Parfum) has high allergen potential. Perform a patch test on the inner forearm 24 hours before facial application.
An umbrella term for a blend of aromatic components.
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Use with caution
The INCI name is Parfum. It may also appear as: Fragrance, Perfume, Aroma.