The Truth About Fragrances: What’s Really in Your Products & How to Make Safer Swaps

Have you ever stopped to think about what’s actually in the fragrances we use every day? That candle you love, the air freshener in your car, or even the shampoo at your salon—many of these products are packed with hidden toxins that could be affecting your health more than you realize.

The beauty industry, and even our homes, are saturated with synthetic fragrances, many of which contain chemicals linked to allergies, hormone disruption, and respiratory issues. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to give up great scents to create a safer, healthier space.

In this post, we’ll break down:
• What’s really in synthetic fragrances and why they can be harmful
• How to spot toxic ingredients in your everyday products
• The best non-toxic alternatives that still smell amazing
• How to transition your salon (or home) to a cleaner, healthier environment

What’s Hiding in Synthetic Fragrances?

If you’ve ever seen “fragrance” or “parfum” listed on an ingredient label, you might assume it’s just a blend of essential oils. Unfortunately, that’s rarely the case.

The term “fragrance” is actually a catch-all that can include hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. Companies aren’t required to list these ingredients because they’re considered trade secrets. That means you could be inhaling harmful toxins without even knowing it.

Some of the most common hidden chemicals in synthetic fragrances include:

Phthalates – Known endocrine disruptors linked to reproductive and developmental issues.
Benzene derivatives – Some are classified as carcinogens.
Formaldehyde-releasing agents – Can cause skin irritation and respiratory problems.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) – Contribute to indoor air pollution and can trigger allergies, asthma, and headaches.

And these chemicals don’t just disappear. They linger in the air, settle onto surfaces, and can even be absorbed through your skin.

How to Spot Toxic Fragrances in Your Products

The first step to making safer choices is knowing what to look for. Here are some red flags when checking labels:

• Avoid products that list "fragrance" or "parfum" without specifying the exact ingredients.
• Look for third-party certifications (like EWG Verified, MADE SAFE, or Leaping Bunny) to ensure safety.
• Skip aerosol sprays—they often contain added VOCs that linger in the air.
• Be wary of "unscented" labels—some still contain masking agents that are just as harmful.

Instead, look for naturally scented options that clearly list essential oils or botanical extracts as the source of fragrance.

Safer, Non-Toxic Alternatives That Smell Amazing

You don’t have to sacrifice fresh, beautiful scents to keep your home and salon toxin-free! Here are some clean swaps that smell incredible without the risk:

• Essential Oil Diffusers – Replace toxic air fresheners with high-quality essential oils for natural aromatherapy benefits.
• Beeswax or Coconut Wax Candles – Swap synthetic candles for ones scented with pure essential oils and made without paraffin.
• DIY Room Sprays – Make your own air freshener using water, witch hazel, and essential oils like lavender or citrus.
• Clean Beauty & Hair Products – Choose brands that use natural, plant-based scents instead of synthetic fragrance.
• Wool Dryer Balls with Essential Oils – Ditch dryer sheets (which often contain synthetic fragrance) and add a few drops of essential oil to wool dryer balls for fresh-smelling laundry.

These simple swaps reduce your exposure to toxins while still giving you the scents you love.

How to Detox Your Salon & Create a Healthier Space

If you’re a salon owner, this is especially important. Your team and clients are exposed to fragrance-heavy products all day long—think shampoos, hairsprays, and styling products. Making the switch to low-tox, clean beauty alternatives isn’t just good for business; it’s better for your health, your team, and the environment.

Here’s how to start:

• Audit your current products – Check ingredient lists and phase out anything with hidden synthetic fragrances.
• Introduce cleaner alternatives – Brands that use essential oils, botanicals, or fragrance-free formulas are your best bet.
• Educate your team & clients – Share the benefits of going fragrance-free and why it matters for long-term health.
• Create a signature natural scent – Use essential oil diffusers or plant-based candles to maintain a welcoming and clean-smelling salon.

Your salon should be a place of beauty, wellness, and sustainability—and that includes the air your clients breathe!

Your Healthier, Fragrance-Free Future Starts Today

Fragrance is everywhere, but that doesn’t mean it has to be in your space. By making small, intentional swaps, you can create a cleaner, healthier home or salon that smells just as good without the hidden toxins.