**Hidden Health Concerns & why it is dubbed the new second-hand smoke.**

Have you ever wondered why fragrance seems to be everywhere? Yes, we want things to smell nice, but do we really need everything to smell?

Fragrance pervades our daily lives, from skincare products to candles, detergents to air fresheners, even trash bags! Yet, what many consumers might not realize is the alarming lack of transparency surrounding this ubiquitous ingredient and the potential health risks that come with it.

**The Fragrance Loophole**

The term “fragrance” on product labels might seem harmless, but it’s far from it. In this little word (perfume of fragrance) lies what is often referred to as the “fragrance loophole” – a legal gray area that allows manufacturers to conceal potentially harmful chemicals under the umbrella of a single ingredient: fragrance/perfume.

Mainly because companies argue it is a “trade secret” and those are protected from disclosure under federal law in many countries, including the United States. This means that when you see “fragrance” listed on a product label, you have no way of knowing what specific chemicals it contains.

**Health Concerns**

The lack of transparency surrounding fragrance is deeply concerning, especially when you consider the potential health implications. Many of the chemicals commonly found in fragrances have been linked to a range of health issues, including allergies, respiratory problems, hormone disruption, and even cancer.

For example, phthalates are often used to help fragrances last longer. However, these chemicals have been linked to reproductive and developmental harm, among other health concerns. Similarly, synthetic musks, often used to create a “long-lasting” scent, have been found to accumulate in human tissue and are suspected to disrupt hormone function.

On top of that, many fragrance ingredients are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can contribute to indoor air pollution and exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma. Even natural fragrances can contain allergens and sensitizers that may cause adverse reactions in some individuals.

**What can you do?**

As consumers, we have the power to demand transparency and accountability from the companies whose products we use.

>Read Labels:** Look for products that fully disclose their fragrance ingredients or opt for fragrance-free alternatives.

>Support Transparency:** Support companies that prioritize transparency and advocate for stronger regulations around fragrance labeling. From the start Beautycounter has obsessively screened all ingredients (and fragrance components) and discloses all ingredients on their label and website.

>Ask legislators to close the Fragrance Loophole:** Send an email to your representatives in one click!

Together we can take charge of our health and close the loophole! Remember, your choices matter. Let’s work together to make fragrance safety a priority.

**Need help navigating safer choices? Reach out HERE!

**PS: Have you stopped using fragrance because of health concerns or sensitivities? You can now safely return to your signature scent! Beautycounter just launched a Clean Eau de Parfum collection with 5 incredible scents!**