As part of our extensive range of high-quality fragrance oils, we supply Low Allergen Fragrance Oils in a selection of stimulating and refreshing scents. Low Allergen Fragrance Oils mean that there is a lowered potential of an allergic reaction. As fragrance oils can provoke allergic reactions, we talk you through the science and regulations behind our oils, why they are better for you and have a whole range of benefits.
What is a Low Allergen Fragrance Oil & why use it?
A Low Allergen Fragrance Oil is a perfect alternative to going ‘fragrance free’, as well as being less harsh on your skin and still beautifully fragrant. Low Allergen means that the fragrance contains trace amounts or zero quantity of the 26 listed allergenic substances found in fragrance oils. This is classified in accordance with Annex lll of the EU Regulation 1223/2009 and the list of declared allergens (see below), with restrictions, from the Cosmetic Regulation.
The scientific process used to create a fragrance oil, combines a selection of over 2500 components. As a result of the study by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), it was declared that ingredients in fragrance oils caused a sensitive reaction, more commonly with eczema patients. Out of these components there were 26 that showed a higher risk of allergic reactions and was therefore listed by the Cosmetic Regulation and are required by law to be displayed on the CLP (Classification, Labelling, Packaging). Depending on your finished product, this would be in the form of the ingredients listing or hazardous symbols and precautions.
These fragrance oils may still contain allergenic components that are outside of the legal labelling requirements. Fragrance oils are regulated by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA), protecting customers through their code of practice, IFRA standards and promoting the safe use of fragrance.
What does a Low Allergen Fragrance Oil mean for home fragrance?
If a fragrance oil is ‘Low Allergen’ this means that the oil can be used in your home fragrance formulations, candles, wax melts etc., with a lowered potential of an allergic reaction. It also means that your CLP labelling is much simpler, as the oils have less hazards and symbols. For example, our Coconut Low Allergen Fragrance Oil does not contain any of the 26 allergens; when used at 10% your CLP doesn’t require pictograms or a signal word. Check out our full range of Low Allergen Fragrance Oils here.
What are the 26 Fragrance Allergens?
The 26 listed allergenic substance in accordance with the regulations are:
• Alpha Isomethylionone
• Amyl Cinnamal (Jasmonal A)
• Amyl Cinnamyl Alcohol
• Anisyl Alcohol
• Benzyl Alcohol
• Benzyl Benzoate
• Benzyl Cinnamate
• Benzyl Salicylate
• Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial)
• Cinnamal
• Cinnamyl Alcohol
• Citral
• Citronellol
• Coumarin
• Eugenol
• Farnesol
• Geraniol
• Hexyl Cinnamal (Jasmonal h)
• Hydroxycitronellal
• Hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde (Lyral)
• Isoeugenol
• Limonene
• Linalool
• Methyl 2-octynoate
• Evernia Furfuracea (Treemoss) Extract
• Evernia Prunastri (Oakmoss) Extract
What are the rules for Low Allergen Fragrance Oils in cosmetics?
We have found the popularity for Low Allergen Oils in cosmetics, especially DIY beauty is becoming more sought after. Skin sensitivity is a widely known issue, with many people suffering from allergies and it being a common development across all ages. After testing numerous ‘for sensitive skin’ products, that still cause a reaction, customers are now looking to make their own.
For any maker or business, following the recommendations and documentation is key to keeping your formulations safe. Any supplier of fragrance oils on the market, must provide the correct documentation that should be readily available for the customer. This includes the IFRA certificate, which is globally known for regulating the safe use of fragrance oils.
As our Low Allergen Fragrance Oils are less harmful, the usages rates tend to be higher, which you would think means you can use more of them. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean they are appropriate percentages. Too much oil can overpower your products; it will also affect your formulation and can limit you for other reasons.
The popularity of Low Allergen Fragrance Oils is becoming more and more relevant, our range is inclusive of fruity, floral and home scents, offering a wonderful selection for you to choose from. You can create your home fragrance and personal care recipes with a much lower risk of adverse skin reactions and a safer gentler approach to making your very own products. Start making your products today, you don’t have to opt for fragrance free when you can choose from our low allergen fragrance range.