IS FRAGRANCE BAD FOR YOUR SKIN

Is Fragrance Bad For Your Skin?

There are many documented cases of allergic reaction to fragrances. Statistics show that fragrances account for 35% – 40% of contact dermatitis in cosmetics.  

If fragrance is bad for the skin, why is it that the first thing almost everyone does when testing any skin care product is smell it? A product with a wonderful aroma will almost always have the edge. The big majority certainly believes that fragrances can be a positive enhancement in their skin care routine.

The simple truth is that only 1% – 4% of the general population is at risk, and the allergic reactions are generally described as mild.

Statistically though, the numbers are considered significant. The fragrance-sensitive population is also steadily growing, from 1% in 1997 to 4% in 2003.  It’s 2015 now. How high has this number increased?

If you are one of those prone to allergic reactions, it is best to look for truly fragrance-free products. This can be very tricky and challenging.

Products labeled as fragrance-free may still contain scent-masking ingredients with potential for irritation. These are usually essential oils that can contain the very same allergens found in fragrances.

The more commonly used essential oils with offending allergens are lavender oil (linalool), rose oil (geraniol), cinnamon and vanilla (eugenol), chamomile (cinnamal), citronella (citronellol), and citrus (limonene).

DERMAX fragrance-free products
are guaranteed free of fragrance.

These are among the 26 fragrance ingredients in the EU Cosmetic Directive (March 2005) requiring that these be included in ingredients list at concentrations >10 ppm for leave-on products, and >100 ppm in rinse-off products.

The bottom line: For the majority, and that means over 90% of the general population, fragrances in cosmetics need not spell trouble. If you belong to this group, and a refreshing lavender-scented moisturizer will relieve you of your stress, then you should go for it. If you are the sensitive skin type, you should be careful in choosing the right skin care products that are really fragrance-free. ____________________________________________________

This article appeared in the main section of The Manila Bulletin, page 3, on February 24, 2015. Fred Reyes is a cosmetic chemist and scientist, and the CEO of DERMAX and SkinStation, two leading skin clinic chains in the Philippines. He was awarded the Outstanding Professional in Chemistry in 2011 by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC).

DO YOU HAVE SENSITIVE SKIN?

Do You Have Sensitive Skin?

Sensitive skin is not really a medical term and can mean many things depending on whom you ask. To most laypersons, people who easily break out in rashes in reaction to commonly used products have sensitive skin.  Doctors will say you are likely to have sensitive skin if you have acne, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, rosacea, or eczema. These medical conditions can run in the family. Allergic reaction to a cosmetic or household product is usually not hereditary.

What are some tips in choosing products for sensitive skin?

• Choose soap-free cleansers and cleansing bars with no fragrance, no sulfates, and no parabens. Avoid antibacterial and highly scented soap bars and liquid

  

  DERMAX Gel Cleansers are
  fragrance-free, sulfate-free, and paraben-free.

  cleansers.
• Avoid alcohol-based toners.
• Use silicone-based foundation for minimal skin irritation.
• Avoid waterproof cosmetics. Removing them require a special cleanser that may irritate skin.
• Use black eyeliner and mascara because they are the least allergenic. Pencil eyeliner is usually less irritating than liquid eyeliners. Earth-toned eye shadows are safer to use than darker colors.
• Throw out old cosmetics. They can spoil or become contaminated even before their expiry date.
• Products with exfoliants like hydroxy acids, tretinoin, and scrubs should be used with caution.
• Products with fewer ingredients are generally safer for sensitive skin.

Are skin care products labeled “hypoallergenic” or “sensitive skin formula” safer for sensitive skin?

• There are no government standards on the use of the term “hypoallergenic” and “sensitive skin” so they can mean whatever a particular manufacturer wants them to mean.   
• Your best bet is to test your own skin reaction before using a new product.

How do I test a new skin care product?

• Every night before bedtime, apply a small amount behind an ear and leave it on overnight. Do this for 5 days.
• If there is no skin irritation, follow the same procedure, this time applying the product on an area alongside an eye.
• If you still don't see irritation, the product should be safe for your face and other sensitive body parts.

Whether your skin sensitivity is the result of a skin disorder, a reaction to a product, or to sudden change in weather, it requires extra care. Making these small changes in your daily skin care regimen can help improve your skin condition.

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This column was published in the Manila Bulletin Lifestyle Section on January 28, 2014 . The author is the CEO of SkinStation. He received the 2011 Outstanding Chemist Award from Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) for his achievements in the field of cosmetic chemistry. Skin Smart aims to clarify facts and myths on skin care. Send your questions and comments to info@skinstation.ph.