Why You Should Make the Switch to Clean Perfumes

When it comes to beauty products, more and more people are paying close attention to the ingredients they’re putting on their skin. That is why Shimmer exists, of course! Whether it’s skincare, makeup, or body care, many of us are aware of the potential harm of certain ingredients. But what about the perfumes we use daily? The term “fragrance” has earned a bad reputation over the years, but there is an easy way to avoid harmful toxins: natural perfumes.


The Hidden Dangers in Traditional Fragrances

The word “fragrance” is often used to describe the scent in a product, but it can be misleading. The fragrance industry is largely unregulated, meaning brands are allowed to hide harmful chemicals under this one vague term. In fact, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) estimates that there are over 3,000 chemicals commonly used in fragrance formulations, many of which are linked to health risks, such as hormone disruption and allergies.

Common synthetic chemicals used in fragrances include phthalates, which are known to interfere with hormone function and may be harmful to reproductive health. These chemicals are not always disclosed, and their use can be especially concerning for pregnant women and those with sensitive skin. As a result, the term "fragrance" often carries a negative connotation because it is a catch-all for potentially harmful substances that companies are not required to list.

At Shimmer, we make a conscious choice to avoid this ambiguity. Instead of using the word "fragrance," we focus on "scent," which reflects our commitment to transparency and natural ingredients. Our natural perfumes use only 100% pure botanical ingredients, so you can be sure that what you're wearing is safe, sustainable, and non-toxic. Using all-natural ingredients with at least 80% organic content, our perfumes are gentle on both the skin and the environment - just as they should be.

Science Backing the Benefits

Research supports the importance of avoiding synthetic chemicals in personal care products. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that phthalates, commonly used in synthetic fragrances, were present in nearly all participants' urine samples, indicating widespread exposure. Phthalates have been linked to reproductive toxicity and developmental issues in children. Another study from the Journal of Investigative Dermatology highlights that synthetic fragrances can contribute to skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially when used on sensitive skin.

Choosing natural perfumes comes with a host of benefits, both for your health and the environment. Here’s why more people are making the switch:

  1. No Harmful Toxins
    Clean perfumes are free from dangerous synthetic chemicals, phthalates, parabens, and other toxins commonly found in traditional fragrances. Instead, they rely on plant-derived oils, botanical extracts, and naturally sourced ingredients, which are gentle on the skin and the environment.

  2. Better for Sensitive Skin
    If you have sensitive skin or allergies, clean beauty perfumes are a better choice. Synthetic fragrances can often cause irritation, rashes, or allergic reactions, especially if you're prone to skin sensitivities. The natural ingredients in clean perfumes are less likely to cause adverse reactions, making them a safer option for all skin types.

  3. Environmentally Friendly
    Many clean perfume brands, like the ones we carry at Shimmer, prioritize sustainable practices in their sourcing and production. From eco-friendly packaging to using organic and locally sourced ingredients, these perfumes tend to have a much smaller environmental footprint than conventional perfumes.

  4. A More Personal Scent Experience
    Because clean perfumes rely on primarily essential oils, their scents tend to be more complex and nuanced, giving you a more authentic and personal fragrance experience. Unlike mass-produced perfumes, which are often designed to appeal to a broad audience, natural scents reflect the true character of the plant-based ingredients, offering a more individualized and unique fragrance.

At Shimmer, we believe in the power of clean beauty, and that includes the scents you wear. Our collection of natural perfumes is designed with your health, beauty, and well-being in mind. Whether you’re looking for something fresh and floral, warm and spicy, or calming and earthy, we have a scent for you.

Stop by and discover your new favorite scent today, and take a step toward a cleaner, healthier beauty routine!

Sources:

  • Environmental Working Group, “EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning”

  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, "Fragrance and Sensitive Skin"

  • Environmental Health Perspectives, "Phthalates and Endocrine Disruption"

Katherine Lowe