This article was originally published in the Skin Care Trend Report. Receive your copy here
Fragrance-free formulations have dominated facial skin care for well over a decade.
In the early 2010s, there was a significant uptick in fragrance-free claims in skin care, amid a growing perception that they are a ‘safer’ and therefore more desirable option for all consumers.
Today, brands across the industry, from The Ordinary to Augustinus Bader offer unscented formulations largely as standard.
However, a steady trickle of facial skin care launches are turning against the tide and embracing the use of fragrance once again, and recognising the benefits that fragrance can bring to both their formulations and consumers.
Are we in fact seeing the revival of scented face care?
Ashley Horler, Head of Product at Skin Rocks by Caroline Hirons, which offers formulas in both fragranced and fragrance-free versions, believes that as consumers become more educated, many are seeing past the fearmongering that once positioned fragrance as a ‘toxic’ inclusion.
She says: “While the anti-fragrance movement is still strong, there is a shift happening – more people now understand that not all fragrance is harmful and that its presence in skin care can be a choice rather than a concern.
“Fragranced skin care is not inherently ‘unsafe,’ and brands should be mindful not to reinforce this myth, whether directly or indirectly.
“Cosmetics are strictly regulated, and fragrance is no exception.”
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