As a fragrance expert, I have spent years studying and understanding the complexities of natural fragrances. When a product claims to have a natural fragrance, it means that the scent is derived solely from nature and extracted through steam or water distillation. These scents are created from trees, plants, and even animals, giving us those familiar floral and musky notes that we love. However, the process of recreating these natural fragrances is not an easy task.
Even if the notes come from the same sources, they can give inconsistent results. This is why many brands turn to synthetic notes and bases to achieve a more consistent scent. They may also add other artificial ingredients such as preservatives and stabilizers to their products while still claiming that they are natural. The International Fragrance Association (IRFA) allows for traces of synthetic fragrance ingredients to be included in their definition of natural fragrances.
This means that even if the raw materials used in fragrances are physically isolated from plants through processes like distillation, expression, and extraction, they are still considered natural. However, truly natural products require special care in storage and shipping to prevent them from spoiling. This adds to the cost for manufacturers, making it more challenging for them to create products with only natural fragrances. On the other hand, some synthetic fragrances may contain natural plant-based extracts but are combined with chemicals produced in factories and laboratories.
If you are looking to create a fragrance, it is essential to work with a company that uses natural oils of plant origin and does not use harmful chemicals or test on animals. This ensures that your fragrance is truly natural and safe for both you and the environment. Natural fragrances also have another advantage - they do not release harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can have a negative impact on health and the environment. This is why the natural products movement is gaining strength as more and more people become concerned about the effects of chemicals on our health and well-being.
It is a common misconception that essential oils are entirely natural. While they are derived from natural sources, the compounds are often extracted using chemicals. This means that not all essential oils are truly natural, and it is essential to do your research before purchasing a product.
