I love the smell and I didn’t leave the house before without perfume. But in time I noticed that some perfumes cause me headaches or even migraines. When I began to care about the composition of cosmetics, I discovered that common perfumes often contain ingredients that may be harmful to health.
Synthetic constituents in perfumes and their effect on health
Most conventional perfumes are made synthetically, usually from substances derived from oil. Floral or citrus tones in the fragrances are thus more the result of chemical mixtures than nature. Although the use of perfume may seem risk-free, synthetic substances get into the body through skin and mucous membranes and can cause health problems during long-term use.
Which ingredients can be harmful?
It is good to pay attention to the following ingredients, which often appear in the composition of perfumes:
- Acetaldehyde © Creates a sweet fruity fragrance, but it is also a potential carcinogen.
- Acetonitrile □ It may cause headaches and nausea; it is particularly dangerous in high doses.
- Stearic oxide □ Causes irritation to the skin and eyes.
- Toluene (methylbenzene) • An oil derivative that can damage the lungs, liver, kidneys, heart and nervous system during long-term use often causes headaches.
- Musk tetralin (AETT) © Research has shown that it can damage brain cells and lead to spinal cord degeneration.
During pregnancy and in young children, these substances may be particularly dangerous because they easily penetrate the bloodstream.
Listening to your body – perfumes and motherhood
When I was pregnant, I became more sensitive to artificial fragrances, not only in perfumes, but also in cleaning products, air fresheners, candles and aviages. Naturally, I started looking for natural alternatives and discovered essential oils that are more delicate and natural.
Natural perfume from Bali
In Bali, I met a local manufacturer of natural cosmetics, who is dedicated to traditional healing. Together we created a natural strong perfume with the smell of Balinese flowers, which smells beautifully and reminds me of the time spent on the island.
Composition: Perfume is completely natural and most of the ingredients come from local sources right in Bali.
- Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera): It nourishes and moisturizes the skin.
- Beeswax: Protects the skin and gives the balsam a fortress.
- Cocoa butter (Theobroma cacao): It softens the skin.
- Jasmine essential oil (Jasminum officinale): It calms and promotes relaxation.
- Frangipani extract (Plumeria alba): It delivers a sweet, floral smell.
- Cempaca essential oil (Magnolia champaca): It brings exotic breath and calm.
Advantages and disadvantages of natural perfumes
Benefits:
- Health Care © Without synthetic chemicals that can burden the body.
- Ethical production © Raw materials are often fair trade and support local farmers.
Disadvantages:
- Lower endurance © Natural perfumes can’t last as long as synthetic fragrances.
- Allergic reaction possible © Natural ingredients can also be irritating, it is good to perform a test on small parts of the skin.
Why did I love this perfume “Bali Flowers”?
Whenever I wear this perfume, it takes me to Bali nature, far from busy places. A gentle and natural fragrance caressses me to my soul. It is not intrusive or aggressive as a chemical scent. I have a little practical packaging always with me, and whenever I apply it again during the day, it is a small ritual that will carry me back for a while into those breathtaking Balinese jungles.