As we all know, fragrance is everywhere. It’s in the personal-care and household products we use every day, and even pumped into stores and hotel lobbies as part of the ambience. For some, fragrance elevates the mood or triggers fond memories. For others, fragrance can trigger itchy skin, eczema, headaches, asthma, a runny nose, or watery eyes. Fragrance is also one of the most common allergens, and it can cause a reaction in up to 11% of the population (which equals tens of millions of people around the world).
Sensitive to fragrance or not, it’s nearly impossible to know the specific ingredients in a specific scent because companies are not required to disclose them. (At least not in the United States.) Not knowing the specific ingredients in a fragrance makes it difficult to pinpoint the allergens, often causing those with sensitivity or allergies to try to avoid all fragranced products.
Women are more likely to use personal-care products, perfumes, and scented cleaning products than men. Women are also more likely to experience fragrance allergies as well as migraines, eye symptoms, or breathing issues after fragrance exposure than men.
In addition, it seems children have become increasingly sensitive to fragrance in recent decades as rates of eczema and allergic contact dermatitis (which was rare 30 years ago and is common now) have risen worldwide. In one U.K. study, 18% of children with eczema were found to be sensitized to fragrance.
Skin that is sensitive or allergic to fragrance can experience itching and/or a red rash, and reactions typically develop on the specific areas that come in contact with the fragrance.
96% of shampoos, 98% of conditioners, and 97% of styling products contain fragrance—which can be problematic for those with fragrance allergies and sensitivity (as well as people who simply prefer scent-free products). For some people with eczema, fragrance can be a trigger as well. This is exactly why Harvard-trained dermatologist Dr. Iris Rubin created fragrance-free versions of all SEEN products!
SEEN is designed to deliver a luxurious haircare experience that’s safe for sensitive skin and won’t clog pores. Our final formulas are subjected to sensitive skin RIPT testing, and all of SEEN’s fragrance-free offerings have been independently reviewed by the National Eczema Association and awarded its Seal of Acceptance™. Our Fragrance Free Shampoo, Fragrance-Free Conditioner, and fragrance-free Magic Serum have also received SkinSAFE’s Trusted Choice Seal.
Dr. Rubin believes everyone deserves gorgeous hair and healthy-looking skin without having to choose between the two. With SEEN, there’s no more settling for lackluster results associated with fragrance-free haircare products—or the fragrance-related side effects you experience when using scented products. Check out SEEN’s five-star reviews for yourself!
P.S. We also offer fragranced versions of most products for those who like a fresh, clean scent!
