Fragrances, IFRA, and “endocrine disruptors”: clear information with sources

“Endocrine disruptors” in perfumes or cosmetics are widely discussed on social media. Here we explain what IFRA is, how safety is regulated, and provide links to official sources so you can verify it for yourself.

1) What is IFRA?

IFRA (International Fragrance Association) is the international association for the fragrance industry. Among other things, it promotes a global reference system for the safe use of fragrance ingredients in consumer products: the IFRA Standards.

Official link: IFRA Standards

2) What are the IFRA Standards, and why do they matter?

The IFRA Standards work as a risk management system: they establish use limits, restrictions, or bans for certain fragrance ingredients when there are safety concerns, taking into account the product type and consumer exposure.

Example: a “leave-on” perfume (it stays on the skin) is not the same as a “rinse-off” soap (it is rinsed off). The type of use and exposure change the limits.

3) So... are there “endocrine disruptors” in perfumes or fragrances?

The reality is more nuanced than a “yes/no”: some chemicals have been studied for potential endocrine effects. What matters is that, in the European Union, any substance suspected of having endocrine-disrupting properties is subject to scientific assessment and, where appropriate, restrictions.

IFRA explains it as follows (official source):

“Questions about fragrance” (IFRA) - section on endocrine effects

4) What does the European Union say about endocrine disruptors in cosmetics?

The EU has a regulatory framework to protect the public from potential adverse effects of endocrine disruptors and reviews substances of interest in the cosmetics field through scientific processes and expert committees.

Official EU sources:

5) Who scientifically assesses the safety of fragrance ingredients?

In addition to the regulatory framework, there is specific research and scientific assessment of fragrance ingredients. A key organization in this field is RIFM (Research Institute for Fragrance Materials), with a safety assessment program and peer-reviewed scientific documentation.

RIFM sources:

6) What does this mean for our handmade soaps?

Our products transparently include a list of ingredients (INCI).
When a product includes fragrance, it is used at appropriate levels for the type of product (e.g., rinse-off soap), following safe-use criteria and good industry practices.
If you have concerns about allergies or sensitivity, we recommend checking the INCI and contacting us before purchasing.

Important note: This page is for informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or undergoing treatment, consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions.