Fragrances and dyes are commonly added to cosmetics to enhance their look and scent. However, these ingredients are among the leading triggers of allergic contact dermatitis.
Dermatologist and cosmetologist Paulina Gruselionyte, who contributes to the development of professional Lithuanian skincare and primarily treats inflammatory skin conditions like dermatitis, rosacea, and acne, shares her insights on how these additives affect our skin.
"In my experience, fragrances and dyes in cosmetics can really harm your skin and overall health. Some of my patients notice a significant improvement after removing extra scents from their home and work environments."
What Are the Risks of Using Products with Fragrances and Dyes?
- Skin rashes and irritation
- Itching and redness
- Eczema flare-ups
- Chronic inflammation
- Dryness and flakiness
>>> Discover Our Fragrance-Free and Dye-Free Body and Intimate Care Products
What to Avoid?
- Fragrance / Parfum – this word can hide lots of different chemicals that might irritate your skin.
- Linalool, Limonene, Citral, Geraniol, Eugenol, Cinnamal – common allergens, even if they come from natural sources!
- Synthetic dyes like CI 17200, CI 19140, CI 42090 – often found in makeup. Red, blue, and purple dyes, especially synthetic ones, are more likely to cause allergic reactions. This is important to watch out for in lipsticks, eyeshadows, and blushes.
- Red dyes to watch:
CI 15850 (Red 6, Red 7) – commonly used in lipsticks.
Carmine (CI 75470) – a natural dye made from insects that can also cause allergies.
CI 17200, CI 16035 (Red 33, Red 40) – synthetic dyes linked to skin irritation and allergies.
- Purple dyes – usually a mix of red and blue pigments, so they can cause similar allergic reactions.
Why Are Fragrances and Dyes Harmful to Your Skin?
- Some are made from azo compounds, which are known to cause allergies.
- They’re often used in higher amounts in makeup, so your skin gets more exposure.
- Areas like your lips and eyes are especially sensitive, and these products tend to stay on your skin for longer periods.
Why Checking the Ingredient List Matters
It’s important not only to see what ingredients are in a product but also where they appear in the INCI list (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients).
Ingredients in the INCI list are arranged in descending order by concentration. This means the higher up a fragrance or dye (like Parfum, Linalool, or CI 19140) appears, the more of it the product contains.
If these ingredients show up near the top or middle of the list, it could mean a higher risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions. Ingredients near the end of the list usually make up less than 1%, but even that small amount can be enough to affect sensitive skin.
The less "parfum", "colorant" or "CI**" in your products, the better for your skin — especially if it’s sensitive or prone to rashes and dermatitis.
Avoid Fragrances and Dyes Not Just in Cosmetics
These allergenic substances are found not only in cosmetics but also in household and personal care products:
- Scented toilet paper and tissues with colored prints.
- Intimate hygiene products with fragrances and dyes (cleansers, pads, wet wipes).
- Laundry detergents and fabric softeners with scents and colorants.
>>> Eco-friendly Pads Without Fragrances and Dyes
While pleasant for daily use, sleeping surrounded by scents or wearing clothes scented with niche perfumes can be harsh on your skin.
Take care of your health!
