Safety of Fragrances in Eye Area Products
Question
Is it safe to use fragrances in products applied around the eye area, considering the sensitivity of this area and the potential for irritation from certain fragrance components like Menthol or citrus extracts, especially since the exact composition of fragrances is often not disclosed?
Answer
Safe Fragrances for Eye Area Products
When formulating products for the sensitive eye area, such as eye creams and eyeshadows, it is crucial to consider the potential for irritation. Some fragrance components are known to cause sensitivity, particularly in delicate areas like around the eyes.
As mentioned by our staff, certain ingredients like Menthol (which provides a cooling sensation) and components found in the citrus group can be irritating. The challenge is that the full composition of fragrances is often proprietary and not disclosed by the fragrance developers, making it difficult to know if these potentially irritating components are present.
Given the sensitivity of the eye area, the safest approach is generally to avoid using fragrance in eye products altogether. If fragrance is desired, it is highly recommended to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using the product extensively or offering it for sale. This helps to determine if any irritation occurs.
Focusing on formulations without added fragrance is the most reliable way to minimize the risk of irritation around the eyes.
