We use fragrance to feel more like our signature selves… but what happens when we’re harmed in the process? This is exactly the case when it comes to synthetic fragrance.  Often described as a wolf in sheep’s clothing, chemical scents that claim to invoke confidence are guilty of  loading your system with a toxic cocktail. According to Breast Cancer Prevention Partner’s 2018 report synthetic fragrance ingredients make up the vast majority of harmful ingredients in skincare and make up as well, so are not limited to your signature scent. If that has you worried, Clean Nectarine has got your back.

Get ready for some options that are less sick and more scent, plus a run down on key nasties to look out for, below.

What to look out for:

Some of the well researched + heavy hitting toxic compounds found in your favourite conventional fragrance may include:

• Phthalates: AKA hormone disruptors. These can increase the risk of hormone related diseases such as diabetes, as well as oestrogen function in the body.
• Parabens: these chemical preservatives also impact hormonal function and are heavily used in skincare and hair care as well.
• Sulphates: your go-to culprits in allergic reactions. These irritate the skin and the lungs.
• Polycyclic Musks: accumulate as toxic load in the body. Research shows they can also be passed through breast milk!

 How conventional fragrance ingredients impact health.

Studies have found that fragrance is the biggest cause of contact dermatitis. In the shorter term, allergies and eczema can also occur as a result of a spray, leaving you itchy and tight chested. This may also be impacting the ones you love, as symptoms are also not always limited to the wearer. A study found kids and pets in your vicinity can be at risk too.

As we often wear a signature scent every day, the longer term, cumulative issues are broad and serious. Increased hormonal cancer risk, puberty disruption and even infertility have been linked to the synthetic chemicals in fragrance, as well as neurotoxic + neurodegenerative troubles.

With so many ill effects systemic change should occur in the conventional industry, however brands are protected under labelling laws. Many of these ingredients are reserved as a “trade secret” and we as consumers suffer.

OK, I’m ready for the switch! What are the benefits of natural perfume?

Outside the obvious, choosing natural perfume makes space for real deal mood enhancers.

Essential oils  are used, which hold legitimate therapeutic benefits. Using the principles of aromatherapy we can change the mood with a single spray: uplift with citrus, balance with florals and get grounded using woody and earth scents.

 For balanced energy that’s feminine and floral…

Elevate your mood with Vanessa Megan's long time best seller, Monarch or opt for a native floral aroma with Serene’s Arid Honey. 

If you love grounded woody & moody scents…

Keep things simple and signature with Vanilla, or go complex +  grounding with Wild Would.

To try something uplifting, fun and whimsical..

Transport your senses seaside with vanilla coconut or access that beach holiday calm with Vanessa Megan’s Aether.

Not sure of your scent or looking to explore?

Try a mini collection. Choose your fave or layer for a unique-to-you scent that won’t make you sick.