Artificial Fragrances & Perfumes: Why the Ingredients Are Kept Secret

Natural fragrances have been used for centuries to allow people to experience the aromas found in nature that they enjoy most. In recent years science has found a way to artificially simulate these fragrances. In North America, any of over 3000 chemicals may be used to make an artificial fragrance used in perfumes, lotions, deodorants, scented air fresheners, cleaners, detergents and other commonly used products. According to the Federal Fair Packaging and Labeling Act of 1973 these chemicals do not have to be listed on ingredients labels. Product labels only have to contain the word "fragrance" as a description for artificial fragrances. These fragrances are actually a complex mixture of natural scents and chemicals which most often include petrochemicals.

In fact, it is estimated that 95% of the artificial fragrances marketed today are derived from petroleum by-products. Petrochemicals are known to build up in the body over time and are linked to several types of cancer and endocrine system disorders. The Campaign For Safe Cosmetics recently conducted tests with 17 popular colognes, body sprays and perfumes which was analyzed by the Environmental Working Group. It was found that an average of 14 chemical ingredients were unlisted in each of these products.

An average of 10 of these chemicals have been found to cause unhealthy reactions such as hormones disruption, headaches, asthma, wheezing and dermatitis which is caused by inhaling and absorption through the skin.

When formulating scientists were questioned about the toxicity of these ingredients the common response was that they are only dangerous with high exposure. It may be true that most people will not experience a immediate reaction, but continued exposure causes build up of certain chemicals in body tissues over time. These chemicals include diethyl phthalate which is linked to sperm damage and musk ketone which is believed to be a hormone disruptor. Among the products tested a total of 12 known hormone disruptor were found. Some products tested had 7 hormone disrupting chemicals. Six of these chemicals mimicked estrogen and the seventh effected the thyroid.

Most homes are filled with products that contain artificial fragrances. Studies have shown that there are dangerous chemical interactions that take place when fragrances from cleaners, air fresheners and detergents combine during daily use in the home. In many cases, the process by which the fragrances are developed causes unintended chemical reactions which produce other toxic chemicals like dioxin and formaldehyde. Over the last twenty years there has been significant rise in the use of artificial fragrances. During this same time period the increase in allergies has increased dramatically.

An easy way to turn your home into a toxin free environment

Many people today are looking for easy, practical and affordable ways to improve their health. Changing all home and personal care scented products to an effective, healthy source with aromas you enjoy may seem like an overwhelming task. Now there is a way to accomplish this from the comfort of your own home. Several companies today manufacture hundreds of highly effective personal care products with safe fragrances which can be ordered online and delivered right to your door.

One company, Arbonne International is a company that deserve investigation. Not only are all their products toxin free, but they have unforgettable fragrances. To learn more about how to order these products visit the Arbonne website today. www.arbonne.com