What it is
Parfum denotes a composite of many individual aromatic substances, which may be naturally derived, synthetic, or a mix, declared collectively under one INCI name. In skincare and sunscreen it serves to provide a desirable scent or to neutralize the inherent smell of oils, filters, and other raw materials. Because the blend can contain dozens of components, regulations in several markets require certain known fragrance allergens to be listed individually once they exceed set thresholds.
Safety & warnings
Fragrance is among the more common causes of cosmetic contact allergy and irritation, particularly for sensitive or reactive skin. Specific allergens such as limonene, linalool, citronellol, geraniol, and others are flagged on labels at regulated thresholds. Individuals prone to fragrance sensitivity may prefer fragrance-free products.
Origin & sourcing
Variable; fragrance blends combine naturally sourced aromatic extracts and essential oils with synthetic aroma chemicals, the exact composition being product-specific.
Questions everyone asks
What does Parfum on an ingredient list mean?
It is the collective term for the fragrance blend added to scent the product or mask other ingredient odors; the blend may contain many individual aromatic materials.
Can fragrance cause skin reactions?
Yes, fragrance is a common trigger of contact allergy and irritation, so flagged allergens are listed and fragrance-free options exist for sensitive skin.