Synthetic Fragrance vs. Organic Essential Oils

Synthetic Fragrance vs. Organic Essential Oils

When fragrances are synthetically derived, they can cause short-term irritation and long-term health issues. Skincare and scented products in almost any industry using artificial fragrances have become the new secondhand smoke. It can potentially harm both you and the people around you. Ever wonder why someone with a strong perfume or cologne enters a room and begins to sneeze?

According to The Environmental Working Group "On average, women use 12 personal care products a day, exposing themselves to 168 chemical ingredients. Men use six, exposing themselves to 85 unique chemicals".

Ingredients such as benzene derivatives, aldehydes, and phthalates have been shown to affect hormonal activity and are linked to liver and breast cancer. Many people who are extremely sensitive to these products have decided to switch to natural and organic-based products. This is why using essential oils has become increasingly popular as of late.

The synthetic agents found inside many everyday products have caused issues such as:

• migraines

• allergies

• skin rashes

• breathing problems

• and chronic fatigue

Synthetic Fragrance:
Pros:

• Variety: Synthetic fragrances offer an extensive range of scents that may not be available naturally, allowing for a broader selection of fragrance options.

• Consistency: Synthetic fragrances tend to have a more consistent scent profile compared to natural essential oils, as they can be precisely formulated to maintain a specific aroma.

• Cost-effective: Synthetic fragrances are often less expensive than organic essential oils, making them a more budget-friendly option.

Cons:

• Chemical Composition: Synthetic fragrances are made up of. artificial chemicals and may contain potential irritants or allergens, which can cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.

• Environmental Impact: The production of synthetic fragrances usually involves the use of petrochemicals and other non-renewable resources. This can contribute to pollution and harm the environment.

• Longevity: Synthetic fragrances may not last as long as organic essential oils on the skin, as their chemical compositions can evaporate more quickly.

Organic Essential Oils:
Pros:

• Natural Benefits: Organic essential oils offer various therapeutic benefits due to their natural properties. They are often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, relieve stress, and improve overall well-being.

• Purity: Organic essential oils are derived directly from plants, without the addition of synthetic chemicals. They are typically free from artificial fillers or additives, ensuring a pure and authentic aroma.

• Environmental Sustainability: Organic essential oils are obtained from renewable plant sources and can be sustainably harvested, minimizing the ecological impact and promoting environmental conservation.

Cons:

• Limited Scent Options: Essential oils are derived from specific plants, making the scent options more limited than synthetic fragrances, which can mimic a broader range of smells.

• Price: Organic essential oils often come with a higher price tag compared to synthetic fragrances, as they require more extensive processing and the extraction of volatile compounds from plants.

• Sensitivity: Some individuals may have allergic reactions or sensitivities to organic essential oils, although this is less common than reactions to synthetic fragrances.

The backs of labels are not always completely honest. American manufacturers are not required to reveal all ingredients despite being toxic. This is so that they can avoid theft of their formulas and recipes. It is highly recommended that you conduct your own research on a brand to identify any other toxic products that may be present in your household.

In summary, choosing synthetic fragrances and organic essential oils depends on personal preferences, priorities, and individual needs. Synthetic fragrances offer a broad range of scents at a lower cost but may contain potentially harmful chemicals. On the other hand, organic essential oils provide natural benefits and environmental sustainability, but the scent choices can be more limited and the price higher.

At Urban Naturals, we only use the highest quality ingredients and are minimally processed where possible. We only use USDA-certified organic ingredients and work with all-natural oil blends and certified organic essential oils. We are continuously developing ways to build better eco-friendly habits that put your health first.