Super Eco

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95% of fragrance chemicals are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum. Many of these chemicals are the same chemicals as are found in cigarette smoke, yet there is no regulation of the fragrance industry. The chemicals are absorbed by the skin and inhaled as vapors. A 2005 Greenpeace study found that at least 36 well-known perfume brands contained two toxic man-made chemicals, phthalate esters and synthetic musk", which cause chronic poisoning. They stay in the system and accumulate in the fatty tissues of living organisms. Phthalates affect the DNA, male sperm and restrict lung function in men. Synthetic musk can attack living tissues. 

Some fragrance chemicals can alter the skin's surface tension, which greatly facilitates the absorption of other chemicals in to the skin. Fragrances can be skin allergens, irritants and photosensitizers. 1-2% of the population may have a skin allergy to fragrances and there is a direct correlation between use of scented products and development of skin allergy to fragrance. Contact dermatitis can be caused by contact with fragrance materials in the air or on surfaces and as fragrances can linger in the air a long time, they settle and stick to your skin hair, clothes, furnishings and food.

Those people with eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions should avoid exposure to fragrance products. Infants' skin is especially susceptible to absorbing fragrance chemicals directly from clothing, diapers, bedding and indirectly from the air.

Fragrance chemicals affect the brain and nervous system, with some effects being immediate and transitory and others chronic and long lasting. They can modify brain blood flow, alter blood pressure, pulse, mood and trigger migraine headaches. They can also induce or worsen respiratory problems, cause inflammation and increase mucus production, making airways more susceptible to injury and allergens as well as trigger and exacerbate asthma, allergies, sinus problems and other respiratory disorders. In addition, some fragrance chemicals are carcinogens. Many air fresheners contain the pesticide, paracichlorobenzene, a carcinogen.

 One in five people experiences health problems when exposed to fragrances.