PERFUME

PERFUME

EXCIPIENT ⎪ PERFUME AGENT 

What is Perfume?

The perfume is an olfactory composition used in cosmetic products to improve their sensoriality. It can be of natural origin (essential oils, extracts of flowers, fruits or plants) or synthetic (created in the laboratory to reproduce or invent unique olfactory notes). Perfume plays a key role in the user experience, adding an emotional dimension to beauty treatments, makeup, or hair products. It can also mask the smell of active ingredients or reinforce the identity of a product. However, in cosmetics, the use of the term "perfume" on labels generally refers to a complex mixture of aromatic substances, the exact composition of which may vary depending on the formulation.

Where does Perfume come from?

The perfume used in cosmetics can be extracted from different sources depending on its origin:

1. Natural fragrances : They come from plant raw materials, such as flowers (rose, jasmine), fruits (orange, lemon), or spices (vanilla, cinnamon). These ingredients are obtained by distillation, extraction or maceration.
2. Fragrances identical to natural : They are synthesized in the laboratory to reproduce aromatic molecules naturally present in nature, offering an economical and sustainable alternative.
3. Synthetic perfumes : Created from chemical compounds, they make it possible to create unique fragrances that are not found in nature, while guaranteeing consistent quality.

In organic or natural cosmetics, fragrance is often derived from essential oils or botanical extracts, while conventional products frequently use synthetic fragrances for their stability and variety.

Properties and active ingredients

Perfume in cosmetics is not limited to its olfactory role. It has properties that influence user experience and formulation:

1. Improved sensory experience : It makes using products more enjoyable, creating an emotional connection.
2. Odor masking : It conceals the strong or unpleasant odors of certain active ingredients.
3. Emotional stimulation : Certain fragrances can soothe, energize or evoke pleasant memories.
4. Personalization : Perfume makes it possible to identify a brand or range thanks to a unique olfactory signature.
5. Natural antibacterial (for certain perfumes) : Essential oils used in natural perfumes may also have antiseptic or calming properties.

What are the benefits of perfume?

Fragrance, although subtle, provides significant added value in cosmetic products. Here are its main benefits:

1. Enriched sensory experience : It enhances the appeal of the product by awakening the senses, transforming treatments into pleasant rituals.
2. Appeasement and well-being : Certain natural perfumes, such as lavender or chamomile, have a relaxing effect, ideal for evening treatments.
3. Stimulation and dynamism : Fresh notes like citrus or mint provide an invigorating sensation, perfect for morning treatments.
4. Masking unpleasant odors : It neutralizes the raw odors of certain active ingredients, such as preservatives or plant extracts, for more pleasant use.
5. Identification and loyalty : A signature fragrance can reinforce emotional attachment to a brand or product.

How to consume the Perfume?

Perfume is present in a wide variety of cosmetic and care products, and its role goes well beyond smell. Here are the main applications of perfume in cosmetics:

• Creams and lotions : It improves the sensoriality of moisturizing care and brings an emotional dimension to their use.
• Hair products : Scented shampoos and conditioners leave a pleasant scent on the hair, reinforcing the feeling of freshness.
• Deodorants and hygiene products : Perfume plays a key role in masking body odor and reinforces the perception of cleanliness.
• Perfumes and body mists : Used directly on the skin, they provide a personal and lasting touch of fragrance.
• Natural products : In organic formulations, essential oils used as fragrances provide additional benefits for skin and well-being.

Note : If you have sensitive or reactive skin, opt for products without synthetic fragrances or with mild natural fragrances.

Any side effects?

Although fragrance improves the user experience, it can cause some unwanted effects, especially in sensitive people. Here are the main points to watch out for:

1. Allergies : Some perfumes, whether natural or synthetic, contain potential allergens such as limonene or linalool. Check labels if you have sensitive skin.
2. Skin irritations : Perfumes, especially those containing concentrated essential oils, can cause irritation, especially on reactive skin.
3. Photosensitization : Certain natural fragrances, such as those of citrus, can increase the skin's sensitivity to the sun. Avoid direct exposure after application.
4. Interactions with other ingredients : Fragrances can interact with certain active ingredients, reducing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of irritation.
5. Non-transparent origin : In conventional products, the “fragrance” indication can hide a complex mixture of unspecified components. Favor transparent marks on the composition.

Sources

The role and effects of perfume in cosmetics are well documented in the fields of dermatology and perfumery. Studies show that fragrances influence not only the user experience but also the perception of product effectiveness. Natural fragrances, often from plants or flowers, are appreciated for their emotional and soothing benefits. In contrast, synthetic fragrances offer stability and a variety of scent notes that are impossible to achieve with natural sources.

We are committed to selecting the most natural fragrances possible, without essential oils, so that our products are safe for pregnant women and to minimize their allergenic potential. 

If you want to identify the most aggressive perfumes, learn to recognize them on the INCI lists: geraniol, limonene, linalool…