In a time where people are increasingly conscious about what they’re putting on their skin, the trend towards clean beauty products is experiencing a surge. However, figuring out which ingredients to avoid in your skincare can be challenging. Let’s highlight one ingredient that is controversial in the skincare world, fragrance.
Whether it’s synthetic or natural, fragrance is often included to provide a pleasant sensory experience but can be a source of irritation and sensitivity for many skin types. If your skin is delicate, problematic, easily inflamed or you’re prone to headaches and migraines you may want to avoid the smelly stuff.
Why do skincare products contain fragrance?
Fragrance in skincare does not benefit the skin and is often used to cover up the smell of ingredients such as retinol and Vitamin C that don’t naturally smell very good.
Brands strategically infuse fragrances into their formulations with the intention of elevating the user experience, creating an illusion of luxury, or evoking specific emotions like calmness or cleanliness. Fragrance in products can also make them seem more luxurious so are able to be marketed at a higher price.
Why do brands leave out fragrance?
Brands that choose to leave fragrance out of skincare formulations often do so with a commitment to prioritising skin health and minimising the potential for irritation. Here are a few reasons why brands opt for fragrance-free skincare:
Sensitivity concerns
Fragrances, particularly synthetic ones, can be harsh on the skin and may lead to irritation, redness, or allergic reactions, especially for individuals with sensitive skin. Brands aiming to cater to a broad spectrum of skin types, including those with sensitivities or allergies, choose to omit fragrance to minimize the risk of adverse skin reactions.
Transparency and honesty
Fragrance-free formulations often align with a commitment to transparency and honesty in skincare. By excluding fragrance, brands communicate a focus on the essential, active ingredients in their products without masking them behind potentially unnecessary scents. This approach fosters trust with consumers who appreciate a clear understanding of what they are applying to their skin.
Focus on efficacy
Some brands prioritise the effectiveness of their products over sensory appeal. By avoiding the addition of fragrance, they ensure that the active ingredients in their formulations are at the forefront, working to address specific skincare concerns without distractions or unnecessary components.
Catering to fragrance-free preferences
There is a growing consumer preference for fragrance-free skincare products, driven by an increased awareness of potential skin sensitivities and a desire for simplicity in skincare routines. Brands recognise this trend and respond by offering fragrance-free alternatives to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of their customer base.
Here at Formation, we choose to leave out fragrance so that our products are effective for every person and every skin type. We are very thoughtful about the ingredients we put into skincare and the ones we leave out to make sure that products do what they say and achieve the best results.
In terms, if smell is an important factor when you are looking to purchase a new skincare regime then go for it. If you are conscious about what is on your skin and have sensitive skin and it is best to avoid it.
Formation products are thoughtfully formulated without fragrance but don’t have any funky smells. Our unique approach is centred around using high-quality, active ingredients that are scientifically proven to work and providing customers with a luxury experience without having to pay a premium price.
Take a look at our range of thoughtfully formed products here.