Perfume – questionable fragrances

Perfume is often given as a gift on special occasions and is frequently used by many people. To ensure that the fragrance does not fade after a few years, the way it is stored plays an important role. At home, perfumes should be stored in a cool, dry place and protected from light. Due to the high humidity and fluctuating temperatures, the bathroom is not a good choice. But what exactly are we spraying on our skin?

Ökotest examined 20 different women's perfumes that are available both in stores and online. Among other things, critical fragrance components were identified.

Allergy-causing and hormonally active

A particularly high amount of diethyl phthalate and the allegedly environmentally harmful polycyclic musk compound galaxolide were detected in some of the products tested. Galaxolide and diethyl phthalate are suspected of having hormonal effects. Some products also contained cashmeran, which can accumulate in human fatty tissue. The allergenic fragrances isoeugenol, cinnamal, hydroxycitronellal and cinnamyl alcohol were also found in a few products.

Suspected carcinogens

Another critical fragrance in the perfumes tested is formaldehyde, which can be absorbed through the air we breathe and is considered carcinogenic. Even a small amount can irritate mucous membranes and trigger allergies. The suspected carcinogenic musk ketone compound has also been detected several times. The use of musk in cosmetics is only permitted to a limited extent in the EU.

Tentamus laboratories test

The Tentamus Group laboratories test perfumes for formaldehyde/formaldehyde releasers, galaxolide, diethyl phthalate, cashmeran, polycyclic and nitromusk compounds as well as declarable fragrances that can trigger allergies. Our experts have many years of experience in analyzing cosmetics and always evaluate results according to the latest legal and scientific findings.

Source: Ökotest