List of Allergens to Avoid According to EU/IFRA Standards
Why Perfume Must Pay Attention to Allergens
While perfume offers a delightful and captivating sensory experience, behind that pleasant aroma may lie allergens that can irritate the skin or respiratory systemespecially for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.
Organizations such as the International Fragrance Association (IFRA) and the European Union (EU) have set strict guidelines to regulate the use of these substances. These include limitations on quantities, mandatory labeling, and complete bans on certain ingredients.
Understanding which allergens must be disclosed and how to properly label them is essentialboth for manufacturers and consumers.
What Are Perfume Allergens?
Allergens are chemical substances that can trigger allergic reactions such as rashes, itching, swelling, or even breathing difficulties. These substances can be found in both natural ingredients like essential oils and synthetic fragrance compounds.
The 26 EU-Listed Fragrance Allergens (According to EU and IFRA Standards)
Under the EU Cosmetic Regulation (Annex III), specific allergens must be declared on product labels if they are present above the established thresholds. This applies to perfumes, cosmetics, and other skincare products that contain fragrance.
Here are the 26 allergens that must be listed on the label
1. Amyl Cinnamal
2. Benzyl Alcohol
3. Cinnamyl Alcohol
4. Citral
5. Eugenol
6. Hydroxycitronellal
7. Isoeugenol
8. Amylcinnamyl Alcohol
9. Benzyl Salicylate
10. Cinnamal
11. Coumarin
12. Geraniol
13. Hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde (Lyral)
14. Anise Alcohol
15. Benzyl Cinnamate
16. Farnesol
17. Butylphenyl Methylpropional (Lilial)*
18. Linalool
19. Benzyl Benzoate
20. Citronellol
21. Hexyl Cinnamal
22. Limonene
23. Methyl 2-octynoate
24. Alpha-isomethyl ionone
25. Evernia prunastri extract (Oak moss)
26. Evernia furfuracea extract (Tree moss)
*Note Some substances, such as Lyral and Lilial, have been banned in the EU due to being classified as reproductive toxins or potent allergens.
Thresholds for Mandatory Labeling
If a fragrance product contains any of these allergens in concentrations higher than the regulatory limits, they must be listed by name on the product label
Leave-on products (e.g., perfumes, creams): 0.001%
Rinse-off products (e.g., shower gels): 0.01%
Example of Allergen Disclosure on Product Labels
When allergens exceed the thresholds, manufacturers must list the INCI name of each substance on the products ingredient list. Example Ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Aqua (Water), Limonene, Linalool, Citral, Parfum (Fragrance)
Tips for Manufacturers
- Ingredients must be listed in descending order by quantity.
- Avoid vague terms like "fragrance" or "perfume" to mask individual allergens when present in high enough amounts to require labeling.
Responsibilities of Perfume Manufacturers
To ensure compliance with EU/IFRA standards, perfume producers should
Analyze the fragrance formula for allergen content based on supplier documentation.
Request IFRA Certificates and Allergen Reports from fragrance or essential oil suppliers.
Check concentrations of each allergen against EU thresholds.
Update labels and packaging accordingly, especially after changes in formula or suppliers.
Why This Matters to Consumers
People with fragrance sensitivities, allergic contact dermatitis, or eczema should always read product labels carefully.
Knowing the names of common allergens helps consumers avoid reactions and choose products suitable for their skin type.
Brands that are transparent and compliant tend to gain greater trust and loyalty from their customers.
Fragrance Must Come with Safety
In todays world, where consumers are more health-conscious than ever, choosing safe and properly labeled perfumes is a form of self-care.
For producers, understanding and complying with EU and IFRA regulations isnt just a legal obligationits a commitment to consumer safety and brand integrity.
