Label findings

Sold as Fragrance Free, but the Label Lists Scent

We checked the ingredient list of every product we cover against our ingredient glossary. Of the 217 products whose brand sells them as fragrance free, 68 (31%) list at least one scent ingredient: an essential oil, a fragrance allergen such as linalool or limonene, or fragrance itself.

Based on 408 products with a full ingredient list. Labels last checked . How we check labels.

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Why this happens

US rules don't define "fragrance free" for cosmetics. Brands often use it to mean no added perfume, while the formula still contains plant oils or extracts that carry scent compounds. Several of those compounds are EU-listed fragrance allergens, which must be named on labels above set levels. None of this means a product is wrong for you. It does mean the ingredient list is worth reading if you avoid scent.

Most common on these labels: Limonene (32), Linalool (27), Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil (19), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil (17), Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil (12), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil (12), Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil (11), Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil (11).

Dermatological Acne & Chemical Exfoliating Liquids (3)

Anti-Aging & Retinoid Serums (5)

Body Creams, Butters & Body Oils (5)

Double-Cleansing Balms & Melting Gels (3)

Daily Moisturizers & Water Gel Creams (13)

Daily Sunscreens & SPF Moisturizers (5)

Eye Creams & Under-Eye Patches (3)

Face Oils & Treatment Oils (3)

Gel, Foam & Cream Facial Cleansers (8)

Hydrating Serums, Essences & Ampoules (2)

Hydrating Toners, Essence Waters & Face Mists (4)

Intensive Lip Recovery Masks & Tinted Balms (2)

Overnight Recovery Packs & Sleeping Facials (1)

Pimple Patches & Overnight Spot Treatments (4)

Sheet, Hydrogel & Clay Masks (3)

Cream & Gel Treatment Masks (1)

Targeted Vitamin C & Brightening Correctors (3)