Hi friend,
We hope this week is meeting you gently.
Today, we're talking about labels, and specifically, what "fragrance" actually means. You may already avoid parabens, sulfates, or synthetic dyes. But there's one ingredient that often hides behind many of the products we use every day.
It is called "Fragrance."
What is "fragrance"?
"Fragrance" is a catch-all term that can include hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. Companies aren't required to list what's in it, because fragrance formulas are considered "trade secrets."
Translation: they can hide anything they want under that one word.
What could actually be in your "fragrance"?
Often: phthalates (hormone disruptors), synthetic musks (bioaccumulative toxins), and allergens.
Sometimes: solvents, preservatives, and fixatives linked to headaches, respiratory issues, and skin irritation.
You don't know — because they don't have to tell you.
Where you'll find it
Everywhere. Candles. Diffusers. Lotions. Cleaners. Laundry detergent. Shampoo. Air fresheners. Perfume.
If it smells good and doesn't say "100% essential oils" or list specific fragrance ingredients, it likely contains undisclosed chemicals.
How to avoid it
Read labels. Look for:
- "100% essential oils"
- Brands that list every fragrance ingredient
- "Fragrance-free" (because "unscented" can still contain masking fragrances)
At Chiije, we will continue to list every ingredient — see the full ingredient list, and on every product from Nº4 Echoes of Oud to the Echoes of Oud reed diffuser. No vague "fragrance."
The takeaway: "Fragrance" isn't just a scent. It's a loophole. And you deserve to know what you're breathing.
With care, Chiije