The Ugly Truth About Fragrance
Did you know that IVF laboratory staff and IVF patients are forbidden to wear any fragrance!
This is because synthetic fragrance release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), exposure to which can have an effect on the growth of embryos. VOCs directly attach to DNA and abort growth.
Children are incredibly vulnerable to the effects of fragrances. Fragrance chemicals interfere with the neuroendocrine-immune axis promoting cancer and developmental problems, they are also endocrine disruptors, neurotoxicants, phytotoxins, and skin sensitisers (source). The adverse effects come from fragrance constituents such as: phthalates, parabens, glutaraldehyde, hydroperoxides, oil of turpentine, metals, nitro musks & synthetic essential oils. Its dangers don’t, however, stop at embryos......
the effects of synthetic fragrances
The effects of synthetic fragrances in children can include, at a molecular level:
developmental delay,
poorer adaptive function (socialisation, communication, motor skills),
hyperactivity and impulsivity,
poorer behaviour (attention, emotional control, aggression) depression,
brain degeneracy + propensity,
to develop Alzheimer’s Disease
(PMC34793786)
Effects on women (and yes men!)
Synthetic fragrance or ‘parfum’ can contain an undisclosed (and unregulated) mix of up to 300 different chemicals including endocrine disruptors.
Endocrine disruptors work by either: decreasing or increasing normal hormone levels, mimicking the body's natural hormones, or altering the natural production of hormones
effects on men
We know that phthalate exposure (one of the harmful chemicals used in perfume to make it linger on skin longer), at levels seen in human populations, have effects on male reproductivity, specifically declined semen quality.
so what can you do?
GET EDUCATED
A great place to start is to watch STINK the movie (you can watch free on YouTube or Netflix).
ACT
Start to slowly remove synthetic fragrance from your home. If you’re pregnant or have a newborn I’d be inclined to speed this process up!
common sources of household fragrance and easy swaps
the good news
The good news is, you have options! There are so many awesome companies doing better things!
My 2 favourite options:
🌸 Pure essential oils. Choose singles and layer to customise your own scent each day or choose from any feminine blend eg. Whisper (musky), Passion (sweet and sexy) or Cheer (happy and fresh). My fav single floral oils to layer: add Osmanthus, Rose, Jasmine & Magnolia to cart. Get 25% off here.
🌼 One Seed natural perfume. In a spray bottle and more reminiscent of your Chanel and Jadore, these are safe naturally derived fragrances that get the tick from me. Use 'NICKYSKINNER' for 20% off.
