Perfume and sensitive skin: allergens on labels and how to test it

If you have sensitive skin, you can wear perfume by taking a few precautions: try it first on a small area, spray it on your clothes instead of your skin, and read the label for allergens, which are fragrance substances that the law requires to be declared because they can cause irritation in some people.

Allergens on the label

Names such as limonene, linalool, citral, geraniol, or coumarin at the end of the ingredients list are fragrance substances that must be declared when they exceed a certain quantity. Many are also found in nature: limonene in citrus fruits, linalool in lavender. The list has recently been expanded, which is why you will see more of them on new packaging.

They are not "bad ingredients": they are there to help those who know they are allergic to a specific substance avoid it.

Perfume industry rules

The International Fragrance Association, IFRA, sets limits on the use of certain raw materials. This is one of the reasons why some perfumes are reformulated: we discuss this in reformulations.

How to test it

1. Spray a small amount on the inside of your elbow and wait a day or two.
2. If nothing happens, try it on your wrist or neck.
3. If your skin turns red, spray it only on your clothes, or choose a hair perfume.
4. Avoid spraying it on freshly shaved or irritated skin, and before exposing yourself to the sun.

If you have had severe reactions, talk to your dermatologist: they can perform specific tests. For creams, see fragrance-free cosmetics.

Frequently asked questions

Can you be allergic to perfume?

Yes, to some of the substances it contains. The most common ones are listed on the label.

Is natural perfume less likely to cause allergies?

Not necessarily: many allergens are found precisely in natural essential oils. See natural or synthetic.