Why fragrance-free is a safer choice for body acne

When managing body acne, the ingredients in your skincare products deserve close attention. One often overlooked component is fragrance. While it can make products more appealing and provide a sensorial experience, it can also be a hidden culprit behind persistent skin issues, especially for those with acne-prone and/or sensitized skin.

The Fragrance-Acne Connection

Acne is primarily an inflammatory condition. Any factor causing the skin irritation can potentially trigger or exacerbate breakouts. Fragrance, pleasant as it may be, is an irritant, particularly for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Scott Sadoff, CEO of Personal Care Regulatory & Safety Services, LLC, emphasizes:

"Consumers with sensitive skin, olfactory sensitivity to fragrance, or chronic skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis are strongly advised to use fragrance-free cosmetics. All else equal, an unfragranced cosmetic has a much lower potential to cause skin irritation or sensitization in these vulnerable populations."

Why Fragrance-Free Is a Safer Choice for Acne-Prone Skin?

1. Unnecessary: Fragrance doesn't provide any real skincare benefits. Its primary function is to make products smell good, which can be achieved without it.

2. Hidden ingredients: The term "fragrance" on ingredient lists often conceals a complex mixture of undisclosed chemicals. This lack of transparency can make it challenging to identify potential irritants or allergens.

Tips for Avoiding Fragrance

1. Choose products labeled "fragrance-free," not just "unscented." The term "unscented" can be misleading, as these products may still contain chemicals that mask the odors of other ingredients.

2. Use fragrance-free laundry detergents and skip fabric softeners. White vinegar can be a natural alternative to fabric softeners, helping to soften clothes without the risk of irritation.

3. Be especially cautious with leave-on products like lotions and creams. These stay on your skin for extended periods, increasing the risk of irritation from fragrances. Opting for fragrance-free versions of these products can significantly reduce the likelihood of acne flare-ups and skin reactions.

Soft Services’ Approach to Fragrance-Free Body Skincare

Finding truly fragrance-free products can be challenging. A recent study found that 170 out of 179 shampoos contained fragrance. However, brands like Soft Services are addressing this issue.

Soft Services focuses on body skin concerns commonly associated with sensitive skin (like KP, dry skin, and body acne). Their products are first launched (and always available) as fragrance-free, allowing everyone to enjoy the benefits with a reduced chance of adverse reactions.

Remember, you can always layer on your fragrance of choice separately. This approach gives you the freedom to switch up scents as you please, without committing to a fragranced skincare product.