Is Fragrance-Free Skincare Better? Here’s What Science Says.

Skincare is personal. So is fragrance.

For some people, fragrance adds a welcome sensory element to their beauty routine. But for others, especially those with sensitive skin, fragrance can increase the risk of irritation.

That’s why our formulations have always been fragrance-free. Since the beginning, we’ve been committed to developing accessible products for all skin types. And in typical The Ordinary fashion, there’s scientific evidence to back up that decision.

This guide will help you understand why fragrance can irritate the skin, what to look for when choosing fragrance-free products, and how to build a regimen without scent additives.

Fragrance is typically used to create a feeling of “luxury” in skincare and beauty. It aims to activate multiple senses and turn the application process into a full experience. Many brands use synthetic or natural fragrance compounds, which can be pleasant for some, but irritating for others.

On top of that, product labels don’t always make it clear which fragrance ingredients are included. This makes it difficult for customers to make informed decisions based on their skin’s unique needs and preferences.

In 2007, the American Contact Dermatitis Society named fragrance the “Allergen of the Year”. Fragrance can be a common irritant for people with certain skin conditions or sensitive skin. Here’s the science behind it.

Fragrance additives are comprised of chemical compounds, many of which have a low molecular weight and higher potency. These chemicals can impact the skin in a number of ways. They might trigger a response in people who are sensitive to them, damage the skin barrier, or increase the skin’s sensitivity to external factors like sunlight.

For these reasons, fragrance can be an irritant, including for those with sensitive skin. Redness, burning, itching, and dryness are all signs that your skin might be irritated.

In general, we recommend that people with sensitive skin aim to avoid fragrance in skincare.

It can be difficult to know which products are truly fragrance-free. Surprisingly, it’s not as simple as reading a label.

Keep in mind that the terms “fragrance-free” and “unscented” are not the same. Unscented products may still contain masking agents.

If you see an ingredient name you don’t recognize, do your research to find out what it is and how it might impact your skin. We recommend COSMILE’s cosmetic database as a good starting point for your ingredient research.

To learn more about the ingredients we use in our formulations, the science behind each, and the benefits they offer, our Ingredient Glossary is a great resource.

The short answer is no. Fragrance-free means the product doesn’t contain fragrance ingredients or ingredients added for their fragrance benefit.

“Hypoallergenic” is not a standardized term, which means products that claim to be hypoallergenic can still contain ingredients people might be allergic to. Be careful to always read the ingredient list, especially if you have specific allergies or sensitivities.

A tailored regimen is an effective one. Everyone has different needs, so building a skincare regimen is about understanding your skin concerns and choosing fragrance-free products that match.

Most regimens start with a cleanser, followed by tailored serums or other products, and end with a fragrance-free moisturizer to lock in hydration. Our Regimen Builder can help you identify the right formulations for your skin and how best to layer them.

And since every product in our portfolio is fragrance-free, you can have peace of mind as you build your regimen.

Fragrance is a personal choice, and for some, it may enhance the sensory experience of skincare. Our formulations are designed without added fragrance to offer an option for those who prefer their products without it.

It’s also core to our DNA as a brand. We believe skincare should be effective, honest, and accessible to everyone. We prioritize efficacy and scientific research. We use simple product names that clearly identify the ingredients. And we always communicate with transparency and integrity.