Five Reasons To Go Fragrance-Free In 2024

It’s 2024! And the link between fragrance and hormone disruption is (finally) becoming part of the conversation. So if you’re hearing whispers about this topic but aren’t totally sure what the deal is, keep reading! This blog shares five big reasons to leave fragrance behind in your new era of balanced hormones. 

1. Many fragrances contain phthalates

Phthalates are known as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) because they mimic hormones in the body, particularly estrogen.

So why would companies include them, you might be asking? These synthetic compounds enhance the stability and longevity of scents (sort of like unhealthy preservatives in food). 

Unfortunately, they are also creating long-lasting disruption in the body! Once absorbed into the bloodstream through inhalation or skin contact, phthalates can interfere with the normal functioning of the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances. 

2. Exposure to phthalates are associated with hormonal imbalances that might affect fertility and complications during pregnancy. 

According to a study published in Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, “phthalates can disrupt follicle growth pattern, increase oxidative stress and cause follicle death. These effects could lead to infertility, faster depletion of ovarian reserve, and earlier reproductive senescence”.

THIS is why I encourage my clients struggling with fertility to do an overhaul of their household and personal care products. And the cool thing about making the switch to fragrance-free products? They notice near-immediate improvement in the look and feel of their skin.

3. Exposure to phthalates can throw your thyroid out of whack. 

Women with higher exposure to certain phthalates had altered thyroid hormone levels, with percentage changes ranging from 5% to 15%, according to a study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism.

Thyroid hormones influence how you feel…majorly! They play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy production, and overall physiological balance. Several clients have come to me after receiving a hyperthyroidism diagnosis. They’re struggling with insomnia, anxiety, thinning hair, and fatigue. But most of all, they feel baffled by what their body is doing. 

4. Lack of Transparency

In the United States, we have something called “ the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act” This allows fragrance ingredients to be listed simply as "fragrance" or "parfum" on labels, without disclosure of specific components due to trade secret protections. 

Sneaky, right? This lack of transparency makes it challenging to quantify the exact levels or types of chemicals used. It’s irresponsible, harmful to consumers, and greedy—In my opinion. Especially because most people have no idea that fabric softener could be hurting their hormones. Why would they?

5. Natural fragrances trigger a hormone response, too!

If I HAD to welcome back fragrance into my home, I’d go with natural sources like essential oils. But still. These aromatic compounds can interact with the body's neuroendocrine system. When struggling with hormone imbalance, particularly estrogen dominance, exposing your body to any fragrance-induced stimuli can potentially make things worse. 

My advice? Try not to overburden your body with excess stimuli when you’re working to restore endocrine equilibrium. Once balance is established, you might incorporate natural scents back into your life if it’s beneficial to your overall well-being. 

Feeling the itch to swap out your products?

I wrote THE ultimate guide to Fragrance-Free Products For Hormonal Balance and it is available to reference anytime!  I’ve vetted all (212) of the products included so you can start your fragrance-free regime on the right foot.