Why Cosmetic Labels Keep Secrets
One word on a label can stand for a whole blend. Here's the fragrance loophole, explained.
Transcript
Why are cosmetic labels allowed to keep secrets? US rules let one word, fragrance, stand for a whole scent blend. MoCRA, a 2022 law, directs the FDA to require allergen labels. Unscented isn't fragrance-free. It can include masking fragrance. Our Bath Soak has three named ingredients: Epsom salt, sea salt and magnetic clay. Nothing hidden.
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The Fragrance Loophole: Why Labels Can Keep Secrets
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Key points from the full guide
- US labeling rules let companies list a scent blend simply as fragrance or parfum, without naming its components.
- A single fragrance can contain dozens of ingredients, potentially including allergens and, historically, phthalates such as DEP.
- Fragrance is one of the most common causes of allergic contact reactions to cosmetics.
- MoCRA directs the FDA to require labeling of fragrance allergens, and the EU already requires many allergens to be named.
- Unscented is not the same as fragrance-free; unscented products can contain masking fragrance.
Read the full guide: The Fragrance Loophole: Why Labels Can Keep Secrets