Adamowicz J​ Scented Candles as an Unrecognized Factor that Increases the Risk of Bladder Cancer; Is There Enough Evidence to Raise a Red Flag? “Manufacturers of scented products, including candles or plug-in air freshener are not required to disclose all ingredients in the United States and European Union.” “Scented candles are a heterogenic group of products which are the source of indoor pollution. In this situation, public awareness of the potential relationship between substances emitted by scented candles and bladder cancer is an essential step for better prevention.”

​Ahmed AS Prevalence and predictors of occupational asthma among workers in detergent and cleaning products industry and its impact on quality of life in El Asher Men Ramadan, Egypt. ​“Cleaning products are mixtures of many chemical ingredients that are known to contain sensitizers, disinfectants, and fragrances, as well as strong airway irritants which associated with lower respiratory tract and asthma symptoms.” “Workers in detergent and cleaning products industry are vulnerable group for developing occupational asthma and other respiratory problems as they are exposed to a wide range of irritants and sensitizers in the chemical substances used, besides common indoor allergens and pollutants (Quirce & Barranco, 2010).” “When the airway epithelium is damaged as a result of repeated irritating exposure, the inflammatory Th2 response is triggered (Tarlo & Lemiere, 2014).”

​Ahn JH Characterization of hazardous and odorous volatiles emitted from scented candles before lighting and when lit. “Scented candles are known to release various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including both pleasant aromas and toxic components both before lighting (off) and when lit (on).” “When lit, formaldehyde was found to have the highest emission concentration of 2098 ppb (SB), 1022 ppb (CT), and 925 ppb (PL). … As such, the results suggest that certain scented candle products should act as potent sources of VOC emission in indoor environment, regardless of conditions – whether being lit or not.” [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. ​Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.]

​Akunna GG Histo-morphometric evidences for testicular derangement in animal models submitted to chronic and sub-chronic inhalation of fragrance. “Copious documentations have indicated that 82 percent of perfumes labeled “natural ingredients” actually contain synthetic fragrances (Rastogi et al.,1996). Such chemicals that affect male reproductive hormones may be a factor in infertility and has been known as endocrine disruptors. (Giudice, 2006, Saalu et al., 2010, Akunna et al., 2013)”. “It has been reported that perfumes, colognes, body sprays and care products contained an average of four potential hormone-disrupting chemicals. In male reproductive anatomy, endocrine disruptors have severally been implicated as teratogens, resulting in cryptorchidism, hypospadias and impairment of body function normally regulated by natural hormone signaling (Wang and Baskin, 2008, Akunna et al., 2011, Akunna et al., 2013). Studies have shown that these chemicals causes damage by mimicking or disrupting natural estrogen, testosterone and thyroid pathways (Soto et al., 2009). Although the implication of subsequent exposure to these chemicals have not been critically understood, recent findings has clearly demonstrated disruption in spermatogenesis, (Akunna et al., 2014) liver damage (Akunna et al., 2011) and other tissue toxicity in animals exposed to fragrance components(Johansen et al., 2003, Elberling et al., 2004, Breast Cancer Fund, 2008, Schnuch et al., 2010). In animal model studies, fragrance exposure has lead to spermatotoxicity and infertility, congenital malformation in penises and abnormal testes (Akunna et al., 2014).” “According to published scientific studies, diethyl phthalate and octinoxate which are major components of perfume and sunscreen respectively has been implicated in sperm damage, apoptosis and interference with estrogen and androgens in human respectively (Giudice, 2006, Wang and Baskin, 2008, Silva et al., 2004 ,Schreurs et al., 2005, Swan, 2008, CDC, 2009).” “From our studies on fragrance, we can conclude herein that fragrance components are testiculotoxic in rat.” [Note: Definition - Teratogens are substances that people are exposed to (in utero) that may lead to birth defects, miscarriages, pre-term labor or stillbirth.. Cryptorchidism (undescended testicals) may also increase the risk for testicular cancer. Hypospadias is a birth defect where boys have an altered location of the opening of the urethra.]​

​Akunna GG Spermatotoxicity in Animal Models Exposed to Fragrance Components. ​​​​ “Various commonly-used products have been reported to contain chemicals that could disrupt estrogen and testosterone hormone. …The results obtained from this study showed a significant (p0.005) when compared to values of the control group A and B. Based on the spermiographic evaluation from this study, fragrance materials could have an adverse effect on spermatozoa of the intact male wistar rats.” “It has been reported that through inhalation, ingestion and absorption, fragrance infiltrates the body and moves directly to the blood stream. … Symptoms ranging from severe mucosal discharge, sinus problems, tremor, asthmatic attack, sneezing, migraine headache, convulsions, hyperactivity, nausea, sore throat, cough, chest tightness to shortness of breath after fragrance exposure have been vastly documented (Guin and Berry, 1980; De Groot, 1987; Schleuter et al., 1978).” “Unswerving connection between memory and smell has been established (Rachel and Engen, 1996). This knowledge has resulted in placement of fragrance in the category of psychoactive drugs and highlighted the ability of fragrance to cross the brain barrier thereby resulting in potential damage to brain tissue (Andrea, 1997). Linalool, the most abundant fragrance substance has been indicated to cause lethargy, depression and severe respiratory difficulties after exposure.” “Synthetic musk fragrance ingredients which are widely highly distributed in many consumer products have been examined in human blood, milk and fatty tissue. They represent a new group of human contaminants which are comparable with that of certain pesticides. Despite several reports on the toxic effect of fragrance, there is a dearth of literature ascertaining its effects on male fertility and testicular development (Thompson and Wansker, 1981).”

​Al-Saleh I Evaluating the potential genotoxicity of phthalates esters (PAEs) in perfumes using in vitro assays. ​​​​​​ “The role of PAEs as endocrine disruptors has been well documented, but their effect on genotoxic behavior has received little attention.” “All perfumes induced more DNA damage than a negative control (NEG), ≥ 90% of the samples caused more damage than cells treated with the vehicles possibly used in perfume’s preparations such as methanol (ME) and ethanol (ET), and 11.6% of the perfumes caused more DNA damage than a positive control (hydrogen peroxide).” “This study demonstrates for the first time the possible contribution of PAEs in perfumes to DNA damage and suggests that their use as solvents or fixatives should be regulated. Other ingredients with mutagenic/genotoxic properties, however, may also have contributed to the DNA damage.”

​Al-Saleh I Screening of phthalate esters in 47 branded perfumes. ​​​​​​“The results of this study are alarming and definitely need to be brought to the attention of the public and health regulators. Although some phthalate compounds are still used in cosmetics, many scientists and environmental activists have argued that phthalates are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that have not been yet proven to be safe for any use, including cosmetics. Phthalates may also have different degrees of estrogenic modes of action. Furthermore, we should not dismiss the widespread use of phthalates in everyday products and exposure to these chemicals from sources such as food, medications, and other personal care products.”

Apte K Household air pollution and its effects on health. ​​​​​​“Various studies have reported that toxic levels of air pollutants are emitted when these fragrances are burnt. … Among the Chinese, 76.9% currently burn incense at home every day and over 90% of the population has been using these for over 20 years. Burning of these fragrances emits high levels of PAHs, benzene, nitrous oxide, and CO. … Household air pollution begins to affect a human even during fetal life. Increased household air pollution increases oxidative stress, which has been implicated in decreased fertility or, in some cases, even infertility. Increased oxidative stress leads to decreased sperm motility and poor zygote quality. It also plays an important role in increasing insulin resistance, which is associated with polycystic ovarian disease, a major cause of infertility.” “...a study of 10 newborn infants in New York by the Environmental Work Group revealed that these infants, born to mothers exposed to pollutants, had as many as 232 pollutants circulating in the cord blood collected at birth….Similarly, another study reported that increased exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals (especially lead and mercury) in the second trimester of pregnancy resulted in decreased length of the baby at birth…. They also have lower heights, which do not recover later in life…. The effect of perinatal exposure to PAHs has also been studied, revealing compromised lung function in otherwise-healthy children… Household air pollutants are also implicated in cognitive and judgmental skills ….”

Anderson RC Toxic effects of air freshener emissions. ​​​​​ “The emissions of this solid Air Freshener produced acute respiratory and neurotoxicity in mice, and they did not lower the toxic impact of the other pollutants tested. Collectively, toxicity data, chemical data, and MSDS information predict that some humans exposed to emissions of the AF we studied might experience some combination of eye, nose, and/or throat irritation; respiratory difficulty; bronchoconstriction or an asthma-like reaction; and CNS reactions (e.g., dizziness, incoordination, confusion, fatigue).”

Bagasra O Role of perfumes in pathogenesis of autism. “There are 3100 ingredients that contribute to ‘‘fragrance,’’ and consumers routinely have no idea about how much the pleasant smells included in perfumes may be damaging their health, and the health of their fetus…“ “During pregnancy, the use of fragrances and other cosmetics may actually expose the growing fetus to diethyl phthalate (DEP), a common fragrance solvent that can cause abnormal development of reproductive organs in infant males, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) in children, and sperm damage in adults….” “Two chemicals, octinoxate and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), have thyroid and androgen-like hormonal activities… In addition, octinoxalate, oxybenzone, benzophenone-1 diethy phthalate, galaxolide, tonalid, musk ketone, benzyl salicylate, butylphenyl methylproprionate, and even the many yet-to-be-exposed chemicals that still hide incognito within perfumes, are known to act like estrogen or androgens….” “We analyzed 91 perfumes by the Ames test… As shown in Fig. 3, numerous perfumes exhibit serious mutagenic potential, as compared with the positive control (4-NOPD), which is highly mutagenic. Distilled water was used as the negative control. Our analyses showed that each of the 91 perfumes tested imparted some degree of mutagenic potential; several exceeded the mutagenic potential of 4-NOPD by 2.5-fold. Fig. 3 only shows the few perfumes with mutagenic ability, but during our studies we did not find a single perfume that did not have some degree of mutagenic capacity at 1:15,000 dilutions…” “The role of perfumes in the molecular and cellular pathogeneses of ASD has not been evaluated adequately. This is due mainly to the 1973 FDA decision to exempt perfumes from appropriate testing, which is generally required for any consumer item that enters the human body and is metabolized by human metabolic pathways. We provide evidence that many perfumes are highly mutagenic and carcinogenic, even at extremely low concentrations. We also provide evidence that even at fentomole levels, certain perfumes are cytotoxic to human fetal brain development (neuroblastoma cell lines) in vitro. In addition, we show that even at 1:108 dilutions, certain perfumes are neurostimulatory and may cause abnormal brain development.”

Bagasra O Smell of autism: Synthetic fragrances and cause for allergies, asthma, cancer and autism ​​​​​​​“The aim of this review was to discuss synthetic fragrances and cause for allergies, asthma, cancer and autism…” “This review summarizes some of the subjective concerns and attempts to date that have brought greater objective scrutiny to the debate over the safety of components used in the imprecise objects called fragrances.” “The link between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and exposure to toxic ingredients in perfumes, even at minute (femtomolar) levels, has been suggested by recent scholarship. Scents are known to have the capacity to reach the brain, including the brain of a foetus whose mother uses perfume that derives from synthetic scents made from mutagenic chemicals.” “Fragrance is a seemingly innocuous term added to health and beauty products. Ultimately, this mysterious term may actually undermine both health and beauty. Fragrance is a common euphemism for an undisclosed blend of chemical ingredients drawn from an arsenal comprised of about 3,100 total ingredients. ‘Musky’ may increase sales, ‘exotic’ may attract customers and ‘ϐloral’ may sound beautifully natural, but these terms may also conceal the existence of petrochemicals and other synthetic chemicals that, when blended with natural ingredients, can form dangerous cocktails of fragrance”

Bai H Contact Allergens in Top-Selling Textile-care Products “Ten common allergens were identified: benzisothiazolinone, benzyl benzoate, cocamidopropyl betaine, decyl glucoside, "fragrances," lauryl glucoside, methylisothiazolinone, methylchloroisothiazolinone, phenoxyethanol, and propylene glycol. Fragrances and essential oils are the top allergens in laundry detergents (66.7%), fabric softeners (90%), dryer sheets (75%), and stain removers (58.8%). …found that 139 to 2820 parts per million of detergent residue remain after one wash and required 20 to 22 washes to become undetectable. Formaldehyde is a preservative that may be emitted by laundry products during the washing and drying process but not listed by manufacturers.”

Bansal A Immune System: An Emerging Player in Mediating Effects of Endocrine Disruptors on Metabolic Health. “The incidence of metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes and obesity continues to increase. In addition to the well-known contributors to these disorders, such as food intake and sedentary lifestyle, recent research in the exposure science discipline provides evidence that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like bisphenol A and phthalates via multiple routes (e.g., food, drink, skin contact) also contribute to the increased risk of metabolic disorders. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can disrupt any aspect of hormone action. It is becoming increasingly clear that EDCs not only affect endocrine function but also adversely affect immune system function.” “Similarly, EDCs have been shown to increase endoplasmic reticulum stress in in vitro and in vivo studies involving kidney (104), pancreas (105, 106), and liver (107). Mitochondrial dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum stress are associated with increased oxidative stress (108) and metabolic dysfunction (109). Increased oxidative stress can activate various inflammatory pathways and increases the risk of metabolic abnormalities such as insulin resistance, diabetes, and obesity (Fig. 3).” “Possible routes of EDC action on the immune system contributing to metabolic disorders. By interacting with various receptors, altering the gut microbiome, inducing oxidative stress via mitochondrial dysfunction and/or endoplasmic reticulum stress, or via circadian disruption, EDCs trigger immune dysfunction in various tissues. Together, this may contribute toward a perturbed metabolic health. See Fig. 3 legend for expansion of abbreviation [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?]

Bennike NH Fragrance contact allergens in 5,588 cosmetic products identified through a novel smartphone application. “More than 25% of the adult European population suffers from contact allergy, with fragrance substances recognized as one of the main causes. Since 2005, 26 fragrance contact allergens have been mandatory to label in cosmetic products within the EU if present at 10 ppm or above in leave -on and 100 ppm or above in wash -off cosmetics.” “The largest product categories investigated were “cream, lotion and oil” (n=1192), “shampoo and conditioner” (n=968) and “deodorants” (n=632). Among cosmetic products labelled to contain at least one of the 26 fragrances, 85.5% and 73.9% contained at least two and at least three of the 26 fragrances, respectively. Linalool (49.5%) and limonene (48.5%) were labelled most often among all investigated products…. Six of the 26 fragrance substances were labelled on less than one percent of all products, including the natural extracts Evernia furfuracea (tree moss) and Evernia prunastri (oak moss). 329 (5.9%) products had one or more of the 26 fragrance substances labelled , but did not have “parfum/fragrance/aroma” listed on the label.” “Consumers are widely exposed to, often multiple, well-established fragrance contact allergens through various cosmetic products intended for daily use. Several fragrance substances that are common causes of contact allergy were rarely labelled in this large sample of cosmetic products.”

Aurisano N Chemicals of concern in plastic toys. ​​​​​​ “Out of 126 CoCs (chemicals of concern), we found 31 plasticizers, 18 flame retardants and 8 fragrances.” “The 27 substances identified in category I, correspond well to chemicals present in other prioritization lists. For example, widely regulated phthalates are also identified as CoCs in the present study. These phthalates include DEHP, DINP, DBP, DiDP, di-(n-octyl)-phthalate (DNOP, CAS: 117-84-0), and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP, CAS: 85-68-7).” “Finally, we found 37 substances that appear in our category IV, which contains substances that appear in other priority lists, but for which we were not able to quantify any risk. This includes the allergenic fragrance d-Limonene (CAS: 5989-27-5), which was detected in toys…” [Note: 8 listed Fragrance chemicals of concern from Table 1: Hexadecanoic Acid, Linalool, Acetophenone, Biphenyl, Diethyl Propanedioate, Propylbenzene, Methylparaben, Propylparaben] [Note: Styrene is “primarily a synthetic chemical” used in fragrance. It is on the CSPC list as ‘parfum/fragrance’ and also on the IFRA list.] [Note: Phenol used in fragrance is mostly synthetic derived from benzene/petro. It is an EDC and declared as fragrance on the CSCP list and on the IFRA fragrance transparency list. Phenol is on the Washington State List of Chemicals of High Concern to Children and Priority Pollutant List.] [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. ​ On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Bornehag CG Association of Prenatal Phthalate Exposure With Language Development in early Childhood. “Prenatal exposure to phthalates has been associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes… First- trimester phthalate exposure (particularly to DBP and possibly to BBzP) appears to be associated with poorer language development in children aged 2.5 to 3 years. In findings from this study, prenatal exposure to dibutyl phthalate and butyl benzyl phthalate was statistically significantly associated with language delay in children in both the SELMA study and TIDES.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Bukowski JA An alternative approach for investigating the carcinogenicity of indoor air pollution: pets as sentinels of environmental cancer risk. “In many respects, pet dogs form an excellent surrogate population for exploring the carcinogenic potential of the domestic environment in which people live. Pet dogs live in close association with people and share domestic exposures with them; however, dogs do not directly engage in the high-risk behaviors and occupations experienced by their human masters. Also, dogs have shorter life spans and cancer latency periods than do people, allowing them to be used as early sentinels of environmental problems.” “Pets are not only good markers of effect; they have also proven to be useful markers of exposure. Thomas et al. (104) found that pet dogs with high blood lead levels could be used to predict higher blood lead levels in children from the same family.” “...pet studies represent a unique line of inquiry that explores cancer causality from an independent direction. This makes pet studies ideally suited to the weight-of-evidence approach that is currently used to define the carcinogenic potential of environmental exposures.” [Note: Fragrance is an ‘environmental exposure’ to an unknown combination of chemicals.] [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. ​Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.]

Celeiro M ​​Pressurized liquid extraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of fragrance allergens, musks, phthalates and preservatives in baby wipes ​​​​​​ “These products may contain complex mixtures of harmful chemicals…. Thirty-six of the target analytes were detected, highlighting the presence of phenoxyethanol in all analyzed samples at high concentrations.” “All the samples contained fragrance allergens in many cases at high levels (up to 2400 μg g−1) and three musks were detected in the samples.“ “A pressurized liquid extraction followed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method has been developed for the determination of fragrance allergens, preservatives, phthalates, and musks in baby wipes and wet toilet paper intended for children. Twenty-five of the 65 target analytes are banned or subjected to restrictions according to European Legislation (EC No 1223/2009).” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. ​ On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.] [Note: Most Musk in fragrances are created synthetically.]

Cetta F Newborn chemical exposure from over-the-counter skin care products. “...many product ingredient labels list & fragrances. The chemical composition and potential toxicity of these fragrances is not publicly available.” “In light of the relative permeability of newborn skin, the potential hazards of repetitive environmental chemical exposure from OTC skin care products need to be addressed.” “This study documents the large number of chemicals, some of which are toxic, to which the average newborn is exposed during the first month of life.”

Chamorro-Garcia R The new kids on the block: Emerging obesogens. “Human urine levels of alkylphenols have been estimated in ~12 ng/ml (You et al. 2011) Alkylphenols are considered xenoestrogens (Soto et al. 1991) and their effects on the nervous and immune systems have been widely studied (Acir and Guenther 2018). Because alkylphenols accumulate in human adipose tissue (Lopez-Espinosa et al. 2009; Muller et al. 1998) non-ethoxylated alkylphenols, such as 4-nonyphenol and octylphenol have been studied in the context of adipogenesis.” “Using the 3T3-L1 cell model, Kassotis et al., 2018 (Kassotis et al. 2018b) tested a mixture of 23 commonly used unconventional oil and gas chemicals (UOG), including acrylamide, alkylphenols, benzenes, bronopol, diethanolamine, ethanols, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, styrene, toluene, and xylens. This mixture resulted in an increase in tryglyceride accumulation and preadipocyte proliferation at 10 μM and 1 μM, respectively (Kassotis et al. 2018b).” “These findings further demonstrate that chemicals that can independently promote adipogenesis, such as acrylamide and alkylphenols (Kassotis et al. 2018a; Lee and Pyo 2019) can act as obesogens in environmentally collected samples containing a complex chemical mixture. However, developmental exposure to a similar UOG mixture altered body weight and energy expenditure, but not body composition in C57BL/6 mice (Balise et al. 2019a; Balise et al. 2019b), which highlights the need to validate in vitro findings using animal models.” “Alteration of adipose tissue size and homeostasis play an important role not only in obesity, but also in the development of other metabolic co-morbidities such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (Bluher 2020). To note, obesity also induces wide-reaching systemic effects on other systems, such as the reproductive and the immune system (Francisco et al. 2018; Leisegang et al. 2021; Snider and Wood 2019).” [Note: Alkylphenols are synthetic and used as building blocks for fragrance. Two alkylphenols on IFRA’s list are propylphenol and butylphenol. With synthetic chemicals, Aquatic environment health is a concern.]

Chandrasekaran VRM Physical and psychological stress along with candle fumes induced-cardiopulmonary injury mimicking restaurant kitchen workers. ​​​​​​“Social disruption stress (SDR) mice were exposed to scented candle fumes (4.5 h/d, 5 d/wk) in an exposure chamber for 8 weeks. Exposure to burning scented candles failed to reduce serum corticosterone level and increased proinflammatory cytokines levels and NF-ƙB activity in the lung. In the present study, we evaluated the role of SDR in combination with exposure to scented candles as generally accepted to reduce stress. However, the combined SDR and scented candle exposure were found to escalate the stress level. This stress escalation might be due to the cardiopulmonary inflammatory response of the stress and candle fumes, which could be directly related to restaurant workers.”

Charles AK Oestrogenic activity of benzyl salicylate, benzyl benzoate and butylphenylmethylpropional (Lilial) in MCF7 human breast cancer cells in vitro. “These results demonstrate that benzyl salicylate, benzyl benzoate and butylphenylmethylpropional (Lilial) possess oestrogenic activity in MCF7 human breast cancer cells in vitro. All three compounds were able to displace [ 3H]oestradiol from both human recombinant ERα and ERβ and from ER of MCF7 cell cytosol. They were all able to increase expression of oestrogen-responsive genes, including a transfected reporter gene and the endogenous pS2 gene, in MCF7 cells” [Note: Lilial is a synthetic fragrance and known allergen, regulated in the UK, but still used in the US. A synonym for lilial is Butylphenyl Methylpropional]

Cheng J Fragrance allergic contact dermatitis. Dermatitis. “Growing recognition of the widespread use of fragrances in modern society has fueled attempts to prevent sensitization through improved allergen identification, labeling, and consumer education. This review provides an overview and update on fragrance allergy. Fragrance materials are used as flavoring agents in oral hygiene products, foods, and drinks. In industrial products, they are found in paints, rubber, plastics, insecticides, and herbicides; in the household, in paper products, fabric and clothes, sunscreens, as well as topical medicaments.” “Within its more commonly known realm of use in cosmetics and toiletries, fragrances are present in lip balms, lipsticks, deodorants, lotions, creams, wet wipes, and a variety of baby products. Nearly everyone is exposed to fragrances and mostly on a daily basis. Not surprisingly fragrances are the most common cause of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) from cosmetic products and are the second most common cause of positive patch test results after nickel.”

Chinthakindi S Urinary and fecal excretion of aromatic amines in pet dogs and cats from the United States. ​​​​​​“Eight of the 30 AAs (aromatic amines) ( ∑8AAs) were found in > 38% of dog and cat urine samples, at median concentrations of 7.99 (range: 0.42–52.3 ng/mL) and 31.4 (2.63–75.9) ng/mL, respectively. Nine of the 30 AAs ( ∑9AAs) were found in > 73% of dog and cat feces samples, at median concentrations of 278 (range: 61.7–613 ng/g) and 240 (55.4–645) ng/g dry wt, respectively. … The lack of significant Spearman’s rank correlation between the concentrations of AA and nicotine in pet urine/feces suggested that sources other than tobacco smoke contributed to AA exposure in pets. Little is known on the toxicokinetics of AAs in pets.” “Pet dogs and cats have been used as sentinels of human exposure to a variety of environmental/indoor chemicals as they share a common living environment (Karthikraj et al., 2019, Karthikraj et al., 2020, Ma et al., 2020). Exposure levels of pets to AAs are not known to date. In this study, we report the occurrence of AAs in urine and feces of pet dogs and cats collected from the Albany area of New York State, USA.” [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.] [Note: Aromatic Amines are found in fragrance/fragranced products.]

Claeson AS ​Symptom-trigger factors other than allergens in asthma and allergy. “Data from a population-based study, the Västerbotten Environmental Health Study, were used to compare persons with asthma, allergic rhinitis, allergic dermatitis, multiple diagnoses of asthma/allergy and no asthma or allergy. Persons with asthma and multiple diagnoses reported odorous/pungent and building-related environmental factors to trigger symptoms to a larger extent than did the reference group, mainly due to perfume and odors from flowers. They also reported behavioral disruptions and affective reactions to odorous/pungent environments. These findings increase the understanding of the role of odorants in symptom development and thereby the prevention of health problems in asthma and allergy in indoor air.” “Environmental exposures of particular interest for indoor air quality, such as exposure to odorants, have also been referred to as triggers of asthma and allergy, although the exposure in some cases may result in allergic symptoms without clinical signs (e.g. bronchoconstriction). For example, a condition with asthma-like overreaction in the lower airways, called sensory hyperreactivity, has been identified in which patients display normal pulmonary function and negative allergy tests, and is typically not treated by their ordinated asthma medication (Millqvist et al. 1998). The symptoms in these patients are often induced by non-specific trigger factors, such as perfumes.”

Cripps SM Erectile Dysfunction in Men on the Rise: Is There a Link with Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals? “Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most prevalent chronic conditions affecting men. ED can arise from disruptions during development, affecting the patterning of erectile tissues in the penis and/or disruptions in adulthood that impact sexual stimuli, neural pathways, molecular changes, and endocrine signalling that are required to drive erection.” “Androgen signalling is critical for erectile function through its role in penis development and in regulating the physiological processes driving erection in the adult. Interestingly,estrogen signalling is also implicated in penis development and potentially in processes which regulate erectile function during adulthood.” “Given that endocrine signalling has a prominent role in erectile function, it is likely that exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is a risk factor for ED, although this is an under-researched field. Thus, our review provides a detailed description of the underlying biology of erectile function with a focus on the role of endocrine signalling, exploring the potential link between EDCs and ED based on animal and human studies.” © 2021 S. Karger AG, Basel [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?]

Dales RE ​​The associations between phthalate exposure and insulin resistance, β-cell function and blood glucose control in a population-based sample. “DEHP metabolites were also associated with increased glucose concentrations, and indicators of β-cell function and insulin resistance. Our results suggest that exposure to phthalates may possibly impair control of blood glucose and thereby predispose to pre-diabetes.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Darbre PD ​​Overview of air pollution and endocrine disorders. “Abstract: Over recent years, many environmental pollutant chemicals have been shown to possess the ability to interfere in the functioning of the endocrine system and have been termed endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These compounds exist in air as volatile or semi-volatile compounds in the gas phase or attached to particulate matter. They include components of plastics (phthalates, bisphenol A), components of consumer goods (parabens, triclosan, alkylphenols, fragrance compounds,… This review summarizes current knowledge concerning the sources of EDCs in air, measurements of levels of EDCs in air, and the potential for adverse effects of EDCs in air on human endocrine health.” “Whilst much has been written over the past two decades of the actions of EDCs from oral and dermal exposure, research is increasingly documenting their presence in air which opens a debate on the potential for adverse consequences from inhalation of EDCs.” “Since estrogens and androgens regulate reproductive functions, many of the reported effects of the exposure to EDCs have been on adverse consequences for reproductive health. However, physiological consequences have been demonstrated as resulting from disruption to thyroid function and alterations to thyroid hormone levels. More widely, adverse effects have also been reported as resulting from alterations to adrenocortical function, impairment of the immune system, and the loss of control on energy metabolism including development of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.” “Prior to and just after birth are especially vulnerable times for exposure to EDCs because disruption of hormonal activity in the developing embryo/fetus or young baby can have consequences for health in adult life most notably on reproductive abilities, brain function, immunity, and metabolic programming.” “Man-made EDCs are contained within many agricultural, industrial, and consumer products, which due to their widespread use, have become ubiquitous environmental pollutants. This includes components of pesticides and herbicides used both in an agricultural setting and in urban environments…. EDCs are also widely used in personal care products (PCPs) for purposes of preservation, deodorant, antiperspirant, conditioning, and fragrance.” “EDCs are contained in domestic pesticide sprays, air fresheners, laundry detergents, household cleaners, paints, adhesives, and plastics, all of which may be used routinely indoors…. As a result, many EDCs are now measurable in indoor air and in indoor dust, often at higher levels than in outdoor air…”

Denk P ​​Resolving the chemical structures of off-odorants and potentially harmful substances in toys-example of children's swords. ​​​​​​“A total of 26 odor-active compounds, including aromatic hydrocarbons and phenols, were identified among numerous non-odorous volatile by-products. These substances also included polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which were analyzed by GC-MS. Representative substances were naphthalene and 1,2-dihydronaphthalene that exhibited moldy, mothball-like odor impressions, and phenol derivatives with leather-like, phenolic, horse-stable-like smells…. This study clearly shows that the detection and identification of such odorous contaminants can provide key indications of potentially harmful yet unknown substances in everyday products such as toys.” [Note: Phenol used in fragrance is mostly synthetic derived from benzene/petro. It is an EDC and declared as fragrance on the CSCP list and on the IFRA fragrance transparency list. Phenol is on the Washington State List of Chemicals of High Concern to Children and Priority Pollutant List.]

Derudi M ​​Emissions of air pollutants from scented candles burning in a test chamber, ​​ “Burning of candles in indoor environments can release a large number of toxic chemicals, including acetaldehyde, formaldehyde, acrolein, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons…. It is believed that regular burning of several candles in indoor environments can expose people to harmful amounts of organic chemicals (USEPA, 2001).” “It has been found that the BTEX and PAHs emission factors show large differences in similar candles without any clear correlations. On the other hand, aldehydes emission factors are quite similar for all the candles, leading to the conclusion that such emissions are mainly related to the presence of a fragrance rather than to the other candle parameters. This has been confirmed by the experiments carried out using candles made by pure paraffin, where almost no emissions of aldehydes have been found.”Bennike NH Fragrance contact allergens in 5,588 cosmetic products identified through a novel smartphone application. “More than 25% of the adult European population suffers from contact allergy, with fragrance substances recognized as one of the main causes. Since 2005, 26 fragrance contact allergens have been mandatory to label in cosmetic products within the EU if present at 10 ppm or above in leave -on and 100 ppm or above in wash -off cosmetics.” “The largest product categories investigated were “cream, lotion and oil” (n=1192), “shampoo and conditioner” (n=968) and “deodorants” (n=632). Among cosmetic products labelled to contain at least one of the 26 fragrances, 85.5% and 73.9% contained at least two and at least three of the 26 fragrances, respectively. Linalool (49.5%) and limonene (48.5%) were labelled most often among all investigated products…. Six of the 26 fragrance substances were labelled on less than one percent of all products, including the natural extracts Evernia furfuracea (tree moss) and Evernia prunastri (oak moss). 329 (5.9%) products had one or more of the 26 fragrance substances labelled , but did not have “parfum/fragrance/aroma” listed on the label.” “Consumers are widely exposed to, often multiple, well-established fragrance contact allergens through various cosmetic products intended for daily use. Several fragrance substances that are common causes of contact allergy were rarely labelled in this large sample of cosmetic products.”

Desmedt B ​​Sensitizing fragrances in absorbent hygiene products. ​​​ “Allergenic fragrances are present in a wide range of products but they are not regulated in all industries to the same extent. In Europe, absorbent hygiene products (AHPs) are only covered by the general product safety directive and therefore fragrances can be used freely…” “...the consumer is unaware that these products can contain allergens. Indeed some of these products do not even disclose the presence of perfume. They only vaguely indicate the presence of fragrances by using attributes such as “fresh”. The results show that allergenic fragrances can be present at concentrations that would require individual labeling if the cosmetic legislation would be applied.”

Dinh TV Emission characteristics of VOCs emitted from consumer and commercial products and their ozone formation potential. “The characteristics of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from several consumer and commercial products (body wash, dishwashing detergent, air freshener, windshield washer fluid, lubricant, hair spray, and insecticide) were studied and compared.” “In the spray products, 21.6–96.4 % of the VOCs were propane, iso-butane, and n-butane, which are the components of liquefied petroleum gas. Monoterpene (C10H16) was the dominant component of the VOCs in the non-spray products (e.g., body wash, 53–88 %).” “Besides comprising hazardous VOCs, VOCs from consumer products were also ozone precursors.” “The TVOCs from spray products (insecticide, hair spray, and lubricant) were higher than those from the liquid products such as the windshield washer fluid, dishwashing detergent, body wash, and air freshener.” “Limonene and 1-propanol were the components of one dishwashing detergent. In contrast, another dishwashing detergent comprised 1,3-dioxane, ethanol, ethyl acetate, limonene, β-myrcene, 3-pentanol, and α-pinene (Kwon et al. 2007, 2008).” “Benzene, n-hexane, and ethylbenzene were observed in the body washes and the air fresheners. Benzene was classified as Group A of the US EPA lists of known human carcinogen (WHO 2010). The unit cancer risk of 1 μg/m3 of benzene is 2.2–7.8 in a million (WHO 2010). The unit risk of leukemia per 1 μg/m3 air concentration is 6 in a million. Therefore, long-term exposure to a considerable amount of benzene in those products might cause health risk, which should be investigated in future researchers.” “A longterm exposure of n-hexane may damage the nervous system. Exposure to 650 ppm n-hexane for 2–4 months causes numbness of the arms and legs (Pohanish 2012). Ethylbenzene irritates the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. A long-term exposure of ethylbenzene may cause kidney and liver disease….” “Toluene and styrene were detected in body washes, dishwashing detergents, and windshield washer fluids. It was reported that inhalation of 200–500 ppm toluene may cause headache, nausea, and loss of appetite (Pohanish 2012).” “Styrene is considered as a possible carcinogenic to humans. Inhalation of above 100 ppm styrene may cause headache, inflammation of the lung, kidney and liver damage, and death (Pohanish 2012). Since body washes are used popularly and frequently, longterm exposure to the above compounds may cause health damage.” [Note: Limonene is a common skin sensitizer and known allergen in fragrance and fragranced products. Limonene (natural or synthetic) is a terpene. Terpenes can create formaldehyde and particulate matter in air as secondary pollutants. Limonene is on the IFRA list as a fragrance ingredient.] [Note: Benzene is a reported fragrance ingredient in the CSCP Product Database.] [Note: N-Hexane is used to extract fragrances and was on the IFRA list until 2015.] [Note: Toluene (often a nail polish thinner) is used as a solvent or fragrance in perfume and bath products on the CSPC Product Database. Toluene is on the IFRA list and on the EPA’s Priority Pollutant List.] [Note: Styrene is “primarily a synthetic chemical” used in fragrance. It is on the CSPC list as ‘parfum/fragrance’ and also on the IFRA list.] [Note: Ethyl benzene is listed for purchase as a perfuming agent.]

Dodson RE Endocrine disruptors and asthma-associated chemicals in consumer products. “Laboratory and human studies raise concerns about endocrine disruption and asthma resulting from exposure to chemicals in consumer products.” “Analytes included parabens, phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), triclosan, ethanolamines, alkylphenols, fragrances, glycol ethers, cyclosiloxanes, and ultraviolet (UV) filters.” “In other products, the highest concentrations and numbers of detects were in the fragranced products (e.g., perfume, air fresheners, and dryer sheets) and in sunscreens. Some products that did not contain the well-known endocrine-disrupting phthalates contained other less-studied phthalates (dicyclohexyl phthalate, diisononyl phthalate, and di-n-propyl phthalate; also endocrine-disrupting compounds), suggesting a substitution. Many detected chemicals were not listed on product labels.” “Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) are chemicals that can alter hormonal signaling and have potential effects on developing reproductive and nervous systems, metabolism, and cancer (Colborn et al. 1993). Some phthalates inhibit testosterone synthesis (Howdeshell et al. 2008),...” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.] [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?]

Elberling J ​​A link between skin and airways regarding sensitivity to fragrance products? “Contact sensitization to fragrances is one of the commonest causes of contact allergy in the general population… as well as among patients with eczema. Exposure to volatile fragrances is commonplace and may be related to various eye and airway symptoms. Skin exposure to fragrances is known to cause perfume contact allergy and eczema….” “Positive, independent and significant associations were found between eye and airway symptoms elicited by fragrance products and perfume contact allergy and hand eczema.… Individuals with perfume contact allergy and ⁄ or hand eczema, as opposed to those without, have more frequent and more severe eye or airway symptoms after exposure to volatile fragrance products.” “We show consistent and significant associations between perfume contact allergy diagnosed by patch testing and symptoms elicited by fragrance products from the eyes and airways. The symptoms were mostly reported as elicited within seconds and minutes after airborne exposure to fragrance products.”

Elberling J Increased release of histamine in patients with respiratory symptoms related to perfume. “Conclusion: Perfume induces a dose-dependent non-IgE-mediated release of histamine from human peripheral blood basophils. Increased basophil reactivity to perfume was found in patients with respiratory symptoms related to perfume.”

​Elberling J, Mucosal symptoms elicited by fragrance products in a population-based sample in relation to atopy and bronchial hyper-reactivity. “To investigate both the localization and character of symptoms from the eyes and airways elicited by fragrance products, and the associations between such symptoms and skin prick test reactivity (atop), methacholine bronchial hyper-reactivity (BHR), allergic rhinitis and asthma.” “The response rate was 79.6%. Symptoms from the eyes and airways elicited by 42%. Mucosal symptoms from the eyes and airways were common in this population. BHR was a significant and independent predictor of these symptoms. … The lack of association with atopy suggested that IgE- mediated allergic mechanisms do not play a major role in the development of these symptoms.”

Engel SM Neurotoxicity of Ortho-Phthalates: Recommendations for Critical Policy Reforms to Protect Brain Development in Children. “There are robust data from longitudinal birth cohort studies conducted over the last decade that have shown associations between prenatal exposures to ortho-phthalates and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), other behavioral problems, adverse cognitive development including lower IQ, poorer psychomotor development, and impaired social communication. This growing body of evidence, along with the known adverse effects on male reproductive tract development of ortho-phthalates, calls for immediate action.” “Phthalates including DEP and DBPs are commonly used in cosmetics and other personal care products, and are sometimes used as excipients in medications and supplements (see the box on page 689). For example, DEP and DBPs are used in a wide range of personal care products including nail polish, lotions, fragrances, and hair-styling products.… Phthalates are readily transferred from mother to fetus during pregnancy.” “There is no longer any basis for the agency to conclude that there is “reasonable certainty of no harm” from these uses… All of the phthalates that have been associated with adverse child neurodevelopment, discussed previously, are currently approved by FDA for food contact use.” “Authority to regulate phthalates in cosmetics (which are defined broadly to include many personal care products) also falls under FDA jurisdiction. However, the agency’s authority is much less comprehensive and health protective than its authority to ensure the safety of food or drugs. This needs to be rectified by congressional action.” “Substantial evidence links exposure to phthalates with increased risks for child learning, attention, and behavioral problems. We therefore recommend that phthalates be eliminated from products that may lead to exposure of women of reproductive age, pregnant women, infants, and children.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Farrow A ​​Symptoms of mothers and infants related to total volatile organic compounds in household products. “Higher TVOC levels were associated with air freshener and aerosol use. Infant diarrhea and earache were statistically significantly associated with air freshener use, and diarrhea and vomiting were significantly associated with aerosol use. Headache experienced by mothers 8 mo after birth was significantly associated with the use of air fresheners and aerosols; maternal depression was significantly associated with the use of air fresheners. The results of the study suggest a link between the use of products that raise indoor levels of TVOCs and an increased risk of certain symptoms among infants and their mothers.” ​ [Note: Fragranced products emit VOC’s that can contribute to higher particulate matter (PM) indoors and out.]

Folletti I ​​Update on asthma and cleaning agents. “Asthma due to cleaning products has been known for 20 years… There is some evidence that an irritant mechanism is more common, although several case reports showed an immunologic mechanism (e.g. disinfectants, amine compounds, aldehydes and fragrances).” “Moreover, two interesting reviews published in 2010 suggested that occupational asthma in cleaning workers may be due to specific sensitization to disinfectants such as quaternary ammonium compounds (e.g. benzalkonium chloride and lauryl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride), chloramine T, glutaraldehyde, fragrances and ethanolamines.… Many cases of cleaning-related asthma occur in healthcare workers.”

Fucic A ​​Environmental exposure to xenoestrogens and oestrogen related cancers: reproductive system, breast, lung, kidney, pancreas, and brain. “The general population is exposed to a number of hormonally active compounds on a daily basis. . . . Chemicals like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB), dichlorodiphenyl-trichlorethane (DDT), some drugs (e.g., antiepileptic drugs), fungicides, cotinine, phytoestrogens, mycotoxins, bisphenol A (a plastics additive), phthalates, alkylphenols, and metalloestrogens mimic oestrogen action, affect oestrogen levels, or bind to oestrogen receptors.” “Xenoestrogens are present in a number of substrates such as cigarette smoke, automobile exhaust, chemical industry pollutants, grilled meat, volcano dust, forest fire smoke, milk, water, and cosmetic products. This means that all human population may be exposed to them.” “Currently there are some 160 xenoestrogens that may be involved in breast cancer development. Women are the largest consumers of cosmetic products which may be a significant source of xenoestrogens. Some, such as metalloestrogens (e.g., aluminium salts), parabens, cyclosiloxanes, triclosan, UV screeners, phthalates,… Humans are exposed to these chemicals transcutaneously and measurable levels have been detected in human breast tissue.” (Note: This graphic is from the preceding article) (This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.)

Gao CJ Feminine Hygiene Products-A Neglected Source of Phthalate Exposure in Women. “Phthalates have been associated with reproductive toxicity and precocious puberty in females, but the occurrence of these toxicants in feminine hygiene products is rarely reported. In this study, eight phthalates were determined in 120 feminine hygiene products (56 feminine care products and 64 sanitary napkins) collected from China. Phthalates were found in 86% and 98% of feminine care products and sanitary napkins, respectively, with the total concentrations varying between not detectable and 813 μg/g (median: 0.26 μg/g) and 0.25 and 8.76 μg/g (1.43 μg/g), respectively. Diethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, and bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate were the major compounds, accounting for >60% of the total concentrations.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Gao CJ Phthalates, bisphenols, parabens, and triclocarban in feminine hygiene products from the United States and their implications for human exposure. “The estimated exposure doses of phthalates, parabens, and bisphenols through the dermal absorption pathway from the use of pads, panty liners, and tampons were significant.” “Elevated exposure to phthalates has been associated with precocious puberty, endometriosis, female genital tumors, and ovulation disorders. …high concentrations phthalates have been measured in sanitary pads.” “In addition, pads, panty liners, and tampons are made from polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) materials, which can contain plasticizers such as phthalates, to increase the products’ flexibility. Dimethyl phthalate* (DMP), diethyl phthalate* (DEP), dibutyl phthalate* (DBP), di-iso-butyl phthalate (DIBP), di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate* (DEHP), methyl paraben (MeP), and ethyl paraben (EtP) were found in all pad, panty liner, and tampon samples.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Geiss O Investigation of volatile organic compounds and phthalates present in the cabin air of used private cars. “The presence of selected volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including aromatic, aliphatic compounds and low molecular weight carbonyls, and a target set of phthalates were investigated in the interior of 23 used private cars during the summer and winter. VOC concentrations often exceeded levels typically found in residential indoor air, e.g. benzene concentrations reached values of up to 149.1 μg m− 3 . Overall concentrations were 40% higher in summer, with temperatures inside the cars reaching up to 70 °C. The most frequently detected phthalates were di-n-butyl-phthalate and bis-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate in concentrations ranging from 196 to 3656ngm− 3.” “The data presented in this paper clearly show the need to assess long term exposure to air pollutants and the related health risks for drivers and passengers.” [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.]

Ghosh S Airborne-contact dermatitis of non-plant origin: an overview. “Airborne-contact dermatitis (ABCD) denotes an unique type of contact dermatitis originating from dust, sprays, pollens or volatile chemicals by airborne fumes or particles without directly handling this allergen. This form of dermatitis commonly involves face, neck, v-area of chest and eyelids. Exposed as well as nonexposed skin can be affected. Axillae and waist lines can also be the target of this disease. This form of dermatitis can sometimes also be generalized. Airborne dermatoses often cause diagnostic problems and create a puzzle not only to the patient but also to the doctor. The incidence of airborne dermatoses has increased considerably in recent years.” “Pattern of allergens contributory to ABCD detected in the study were as follows: potassium dichromate 39.7% (n=25), fragrance mix 28.1% (n=18), epoxy resin 26.6% (n=17), colophony 17.8% (n=12), formaldehyde 13.2% (n=7) and parthenium 9.4% (n=6). Cement, perfumes or deodorants, volatile paints and synthetic glues have become commonest allergens contributing to ABCD in urban and semiurban areas.” “Fragrance allergy leading to ABCD has been reported by many authors.”

Goodman N Evaluating air quality with and without air fresheners. “This study indicated improvements to air quality, in terms of D-limonene concentrations, after discontinuing the use of air fresheners in restrooms. Reductions in air freshener use may also reduce the formation and concentrations of secondary pollutants. Findings from this study can provide an important foundation for future research to help reduce VOC emissions and exposures.”

Goodman N Fragranced laundry products and emissions from dryer vents: implications for air quality and health. “The study pursues three main objectives: (a) to determine the frequency and types of health problems associated with exposure to fragranced laundry products from dryer vents, (b) to assess and compare the VOCs from fragranced and fragrance-free laundry products, and (c) to calculate potential reductions in limonene emissions from dryer vents by switching from fragranced to fragrance-free laundry products. Results can provide a scientific foundation and practical approach to reduce pollutants and potential health risks associated with the use of laundry products and their emissions through dryer vents.” “Among the general population in the US and AU, 12.5% and 6.1% of adults report health problems when exposed to scented laundry products from dryer vents. Adverse health effects include respiratory problems (the most frequently reported, collectively), mucosal symptoms, skin problems, asthma attacks, migraine headaches, neurological problems, among others.” “Dryer vent emissions from seven households were analyzed for their limonene concentrations…” “In households that switched from fragranced products to fragrance-free products, emissions of limonene were reduced within two weeks by up to 99.7% (average 79.1%).” “At a regional level, during use of fragranced laundry products, limonene emissions from dryer vents across metropolitan Melbourne is estimated at 1.99 tons/year.” “In this same analytical approach, applied to the state of California, limonene emissions from dryer vents across the state was estimated at 10.95 tons/year” “This study indicates that fragranced laundry products emitted from dryer vents can be sources of indoor and outdoor air pollutants and health risks. The study also indicates that switching from fragranced to fragrance-free laundry products can generate potential improvements for air quality and health.”

Goodman N Emissions from dryer vents during use of fragranced and fragrance-free laundry products. “The study focused on D-limonene because it is (a) a prevalent and dominant VOC in fragranced laundry products as well as other fragranced consumer products, (b) a suitable marker as it is generally found in fragranced laundry products but not in fragrance-free laundry products, (c) associated with a range of adverse human health and environmental effects, and classified as a potentially hazardous compound (SWA 2018), and (d) a terpene that readily reacts with ozone to generate a range of hazardous secondary air pollutants.” (note: Graphic is from preceding article) (Open Access This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons license, and indicate if changes were made.) “This study demonstrated the improvements to air quality after switching from fragranced to fragrance-free products. It found that, by a change to fragrance-free laundry products, concentrations of D-limonene can be almost completely eliminated from the dryer vent emissions. This strategy may also reduce the formation and concentrations of secondary pollutants such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and ultrafine particles. Findings from this study can provide an important foundation for future research, and for demonstrating cost-effective strategies to reduce VOC emissions and personal exposures.” [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.]

Goossens A Cosmetic Habits and Cosmetic Contact Dermatitis in Children. “Almost all cosmetic ingredients may be responsible for allergic contact dermatitis. Emulsifiers and other vehicle compounds, such as wool alcohols (lanolin), are possible allergenic culprits in cosmetics; however, fragrance components (fragrance mix, myroxylon pereirae, and colophonium), hair dye chemicals, and preservative agents are certainly the most important allergens” “Although guidelines for the maximum concentration of fragrances (and preservatives) in cosmetics have been provided, it has been previously demonstrated that, for example, cosmetic “toys” may contain much higher concentrations of fragrances.” “Allergic contact dermatitis from cosmetics in children and adolescents has recently become more frequently observed and recognized. Fragrances, hair dyes, sunscreen agents, and preservative agents, particularly methylisothiazolinone, are the most important allergens.” “It remains an important task for the cosmetic industry to avoid the main allergens known from the literature and to formulate cosmetics intended to be used in this age group as safely as possible.”

Green R Development and Validation of the Prevention of Toxic Chemicals in the Environment for Children Tool: A Questionnaire for Examining the Community's Knowledge of and Preferences Toward Toxic Chemicals and Children's Brain Development. “Toxic chemicals are an insidious threat to children. Toxic chemicals elevate the risk for neurodevelopmental disorders, including learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The developing brain is particularly vulnerable to toxic chemicals, even at low doses that might not have an adverse effect on adults. Therefore, early identification and recognition by the public of potential sources of exposure to toxic chemicals are crucial to protect children.” “One recent American study found that greater parental concern about toxic chemicals was associated with lower urinary concentrations of phthalates and phenols in children's urine.” [Note: Phenol used in fragrance is mostly synthetic derived from benzene/petro. It is an EDC and declared as fragrance on the CSCP list and on the IFRA fragrance transparency list. Phenol is on the Washington State List of Chemicals of High Concern to Children and Priority Pollutant List.] [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Guin JD Baby-wipe dermatitis: preservative-induced hand eczema in parents and persons using moist towelettes. “Results: A total of 6 women and 3 men with hand eczema were found to be allergic to (preservatives found in) different brands of moist towelettes used in diaper hygiene. Many were allergic to fragrance materials as well.” “Hand eczema in a grip-like pattern is good reason to inquire about baby wipes as a possible source, as most patients do not recognize that source even after undergoing patch tests.”

Handa S Airborne contact dermatitis - current perspectives in etiopathogenesis and management. “Airborne contact dermatitis (ABCD) is a morphological diagnosis that encompasses all acute or chronic dermatoses predominantly of exposed parts of body, which are caused by substances which when released into the air, settle on the exposed skin.” “In airborne allergic dermatitis, initially there is a refractory phase where there is a periodic or continuous contact with allergen but no response. This is followed by an induction phase where the hapten penetrates skin, conjugates with epidermal protein, comes in contact with antigen presenting cells, migrates to draining lymph nodes followed by stimulation of naive T cells. This leads to proliferation of activated T cells to produce effector and memory cells which then enter the circulation. Re-exposure to the specific hapten leads to the release of mediators producing skin inflammation. A persistent inflammation is produced due to continued presence of effector cells.” “The common allergens … include various acids and alkalis, metals and powders of metallic salts, cement, industrial solvents, glass fibers, sewage sludge, ammonia, vegetable and wood allergens, plastics, rubbers and glues, insecticides, pesticides, animal feed additives and many others. The airborne contactants can also be classified on the basis of their physical state as volatile airborne contactants like acids, alkalis, ammonia and pesticides; droplets like insecticides, perfumes and hair sprays; powders which include aluminum, anhydrous calcium silicate, and metallic oxides; and particles like tree sawing particles, wool and plastics.” “Dooms-Goossens classified airborne dermatitis into five different types, namely, airborne irritant contact dermatitis, airborne allergic contact dermatitis, airborne phototoxic reactions, airborne photoallergic reactions and airborne contact urticaria.[33]” “Rare presentations include acne like, lichenoid eruptions, fixed drug eruptions, exfoliative dermatitis, telengiectases, paresthesias, purpura, erythema multiforme like eruption, pellagra like dermatitis and lymphomatoid CD. Some agents cause more than one type of reaction. P. hysterophorus can produce allergic CD, photocontact dermatitis and a lichenoid eruption. Similarly, formaldehyde and phosphorus sesquisulfide can lead to an airborne irritant or allergic CD and contact urticaria.” “In the classical airborne allergic contact dermatitis, there is involvement of exposed areas of face, “V” of neck, hands and forearms, “Wilkinson's triangle,” both eyelids, nasolabial folds and under the chin. The involvement of both light-exposed and protected areas helps to differentiate ABCD from a photo-related dermatitis. Another close differential is atopic eczema as both ABCD and atopic eczema have predominant flexural and skin crease involvement. Initially, there is an acute flare of the dermatitis during the plant growing season but, with repeated exposure, the flare becomes prolonged and produces a chronic lichenified eczema associated with secondary infection, fissuring and hypo or hyperpigmentation…. Some patients present with facial swelling before manifesting classical eczematous lesions.“

Harley KG Association of phthalates, parabens and phenols found in personal care products with pubertal timing in girls and boys. “Several chemicals that are commonly used in cosmetics, personal care products and other scented household items have been shown to exhibit endocrine disrupting properties (Witorsch and Thomas, 2010). These chemicals include certain low molecular weight phthalates, such as diethyl phthalate (DEP), which is found in scented products such as perfumes, deodorants, soaps and shampoo, and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) and di-isobutyl phthalate (DiBP), which can be used in nail polish and cosmetics (Dodson et al., 2012). In animal studies, developmental exposure to DnBP and DiBP induces anti-androgenic effects including feminized traits, abnormal reproductive development and later puberty in male rats, although the effects are less strong in females (Mylchreest et al., 2000; Saillenfait et al., 2008).” “We found evidence that prenatal and peripubertal exposure to certain phthalates, parabens and phenols present in personal care and consumer products was associated with pubertal timing in girls, but less so in boys.”

Heindel JJ History of the Obesogen Field: Looking Back to Look Forward. “Exposure to EDCs during early development (DOHaD) has been shown to increase susceptibility to a variety of diseases including infertility, asthma, breast and prostate cancer, early puberty, susceptibility to infections, heart disease, autoimmune disease, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder/learning disability. The chemicals that she noted as having the ability to cause weight gain include organochlorine pesticides, carbamates, polychlorinated biphenols, plastics such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), heavy metals and solvents.” “EDCs are found in a wide variety of products including pesticides/herbicides/fungicides, flame retardants, surfactants, plastics, sunscreens, cosmetics, and personal care products, etc. [reviewed in (5)].” “Originally, EDCs were shown to interfere with estrogen, androgen and thyroid hormone signaling (7, 8) resulting in diseases and dysfunctions in reproduction, learning, memory, and behavior.” [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?]

Heisterberg MV Johansen JD. Deodorants are the leading cause of allergic contact dermatitis to fragrance ingredients. “Fragrances frequently cause contact allergy, and cosmetic products are the main causes of fragrance contact allergy.” “Correlation was observed between deodorants listed as the cause of allergy and allergy detected with fragrance mix II (FM II) and hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde.” “Deodorants were the leading causes of fragrance allergy, especially among men. Seemingly, deodorants have an 'unhealthy' composition of the fragrance chemicals present in FM II.”

Helm JS Measurement of endocrine disrupting and asthma-associated chemicals in hair products used by Black women. “The hair products tested contained 45 endocrine disrupting or asthma-associated chemicals, including every targeted chemical class. We found cyclosiloxanes, parabens, and the fragrance marker diethyl phthalate (DEP) at the highest levels, and DEP most frequently. Root stimulators, hair lotions, and relaxers frequently contained nonylphenols, parabens, and fragrances; anti-frizz products contained cyclosiloxanes. Hair relaxers for children contained five chemicals regulated by California's Proposition 65 or prohibited by EU cosmetics regulation. Targeted chemicals were generally not listed on the product label.” “The fragrance chemicals linalool, limonene, and 1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4, 6,6,7,8, 8- hexamethylcyclopenta[g]-2-benzopyran (HHCB, or Galaxolide) were also found at higher detection frequencies and concentrations compared to other target chemicals. Root stimulators, hair lotions, and relaxers frequently contained nonylphenols, parabens, and fragrance chemicals whereas anti-frizz products contained cyclosiloxanes. We did not find strong agreement between detected and labeled chemicals, although chemicals detected at higher concentrations were labeled more often.” “All products contained at least one of the 19 targeted fragrance chemicals, and most had multiple fragrances, with several root stimulators containing over half of the fragrances targeted. Linalool, limonene, and HHCB (or Galaxolide) were the most common (found in about 40% of products). We found limonene at the highest concentration among fragrance chemicals (1900 μg/g, or 0.19% by weight), and limonene, linalool, phenethyl alcohol, and terpineol were frequently detected at > 100 μg/g in multiple products.”

Holtcamp W Obesogens: an environmental link to obesity. “Most known or suspected obesogens are endocrine disruptors. Many are widespread, and exposures are suspected or confirmed to be quite common.”. “Phthalates, plasticizers that also have been related to obesity in humans, occur in many PVC items as well as in scented items such as air fresheners, laundry products, and personal care products.” [Note: Phthalates are endocrine disruptors. Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?]

Holtcamp W Long-term outcomes after phthalate exposure: food intake, weight gain, fat storage, and fertility in mice. “Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), particularly in utero, is suspected to contribute to obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and reproductive abnormalities. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a plasticizer found in cosmetics, fragrances, food packaging, and polyvinyl chloride, is one such EDC. Human studies have found associations between urinary metabolites of DEHP and other phthalates and increased body mass in humans, and maternal exposure to DEHP has been associated with impaired gonadal development and fertility in baby boys.” [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?]

Hsieh BM Coughing in Small Animal Patients. “Environmental factors play a large role in some chronic airway disease processes and can cause exacerbation of coughing. Owners should not smoke indoors and any possible airborne irritants such as air fresheners, incense, perfumes, and noxious fumes should be eliminated.” “Coughing is a common clinical problem in humans and veterinary patients that is difficult to manage and severely impacts quality of life.… Current guidelines are largely based on expert opinion, anecdotal clinical evidence and relatively few rigorous clinical trials.”

Hsu C Adverse Impact of Environmental Chemicals on Developmental Origins of Kidney Disease and Hypertension. “Here, we focus on environmental chemicals that pregnant mothers are likely to be exposed, including dioxins, bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), heavy metals, and air pollution.” “In pregnancy, exposure to various environmental chemicals occurs through daily consumer activity. There are many sources of contamination like industry, waste infrastructure, consumer products, contaminated foods, etc. These environmental chemicals cause renal programming, resulting in chronic kidney disease and hypertension in adulthood.” “Phthalates can be delivered to the human body through diet, inhalation, and skin contact. Di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) are the primary phthalate ester pollutants in the environment. The metabolites of phthalates can cross the placenta and be transferred to the fetus. Epidemiological studies demonstrated that high urinary DEHP levels are associated with high BP, low eGFR and albuminuria. As phthalates have estrogenic or antiandrogenic properties, emerging evidence suggests the associations between prenatal phthalate exposure and adverse offspring outcomes. Following these findings, steps should be taken to explore the effect of phthalate exposure during pregnancy on offspring kidneys.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Ibrahim ALshaer F Qualitative Analysis of Air Freshener Spray. “Information lacks concerning the gaseous emissions of fragrance products in spite of the extensive indoor exposure and widespread use of fragrances to them. In addition, 95 percent of the chemicals are synthetic compounds in fragrances that are derived from petroleum.” “Some chemicals after analysis turned out to be noted as skin allergens or irritants and even chemicals that may interfere with bodily functions.“ “The present study has identified the presence of different compounds in spray air fresheners that were not disclosed on the product’s label. The results depicted common compounds in both low- and high-cost air fresheners. Chemicals found in this study were not revealed on the product label as manufacturers are not required to list all ingredients. These chemicals usually tend to be listed on the product label as “parfum” or “fragrance”. There should be a law that strictly indicates whether the products contain any synthetic chemicals for people to be aware of what they are exposed to, although, manufacturers are not required to reveal all hidden ingredients on the label as stated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).”

Jenerowicz D Environmental factors and allergic diseases. “It has been estimated, that over 85 000 chemicals are recognized in the human environment and they may act as contact allergens or irritants, causing allergic or non-allergic contact dermatitis. Among them metals, fragrances, preservatives, botanicals and paraphenylenediamine are considered as the most significant.” “According to data from North America and Western Europe, 12.5%-40.6% of the population are diagnosed as allergic to at least one chemical.” “Cosmetics, fragrances, and botanicals are also important causes of both irritant and allergic contact dermatitis… Fragrances are important sources of allergic contact dermatitis. Fragrances are found in various types of cosmetics – most traditionally in perfume or cologne form. Fragrances, including fragrance mix, balsam of Peru, and cinnamic aldehyde, are the most commonly identified allergens in cosmetic-induced contact hypersensitivity reactions.”

Jensen OC ervsasthma fremkaldt af duftstoffer i kattegrus [Occupational asthma caused by scented gravel in cat litter boxes]. “Perfumes are now added to articles in everyday use to an increasing extent. One example of this is addition of perfume to gravel (kitty litter) in cat toilets. It is recognized that perfumes may cause toxic and allergic skin reactions while perfume as the cause of asthma is not so well recognized. In the case described here, exposure to industrial perfume resulted in asthma on account of irritation.“

Jiang J Ethanol-based disinfectant sprays drive rapid changes in the chemical composition of indoor air in residential buildings. “Preclinical studies on animals revealed potential neural, hepatic, pulmonary, and cardiovascular risks of inhalation of ethanol and 2-propanol…. Epidemiological studies have identified associations between inhalation exposure to VOCs and numerous respiratory diseases VOC exposures in residential and office buildings have been related to various adverse human health outcomes.” “Products A and B contained ethanol at 30–60 %wt. and 58 % wt., respectively. Both sprays utilized alkanes as propellants (A, B: propane (C3H8), A: isobutane (i-C4H10), B: n-butane (n-C4H10)) and included fragrances.” “Monoterpenes and monoterpenoids are common fragrance ingredients in disinfectants and could cause occupational asthma…. Epidemiological studies have identified associations between inhalation exposure to VOCs and numerous respiratory diseases…. VOC exposures in residential and office buildings have been related to various adverse human health outcomes….”

Jo WK Head-space, small-chamber and in-vehicle tests for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from air fresheners for the Korean market. “Five toxic or hazardous analytes were found in the headspace phase of AFs (toluene, benzene, ethyl benzene, and m,p-xylene) at a frequency of more than 50%. Limonene and linalool, which are known to be unsaturated ozone-reactive VOCs, were detected at a frequency of 58 and 35%, respectively.” “Previous studies have implicated several consumer products as being sources of indoor air pollution (Habib et al., 2006; Singer et al., 2006; Su et al., 2007). ... AFs work by using a nerve-deadening chemical that interferes with the human sense of smell, coating the nasal passage with an oily film, masking an offending odor with a different odor, or by deactivating the odor (EHANS, 2004) Certain VOCs emitted from AFs such as ethanol, benzaldehyde, α-terpineol, and benzyl acetate showed toxic effects at dose levels between 9 and 14 mg/kg (Cooper et al., 1995), however, AFs emit significant amounts of VOCs when applied indoors (Salthammer, 1999; Zhu et al., 2001; Singer et al., 2006).” “Synthetic, chemical-based AFs contain a number of chemicals including carcinogens and sensitizers, possible reproductive toxins, and neurotoxins (EHANS, 2004). Moreover, unsaturated organic constituents emitted from AFs produce secondary toxic pollutants via reactions with oxidants such as ozone, hydroxyl radicals, and nitrogen oxides (Weschler and Shields, 1999; Atkinson and Arey, 2003).” [Note: Toluene (often a nail polish thinner) is used as a solvent or fragrance in perfume and bath products on the CSPC Product Database. Toluene is on the IFRA list and on the EPA’s Priority Pollutant List.] [Note: Benzene is a reported fragrance ingredient in the CSCP Product Database.] [Note: Xylene “occurs naturally in petroleum and coal tar, and is major component of gasoline and fuel oil”. Xylene is used as a musk fragrance. Xylene is on IFRA.] [Note: Limonene is a common skin sensitizer and known allergen in fragrance and fragranced products. Limonene (natural or synthetic) is a terpene. Terpenes can create formaldehyde and particulate matter in air as secondary pollutants. Limonene is on the IFRA list as a fragrance ingredient.] [Note: Linalool is a common ingredient in fragranced products.. Linalool is a sensitizer after it is exposed to air and can cause contact allergies.]

Johnson PI Chemicals of concern in personal care products used by women of color in three communities of California. “We found that 65% of labels included CoCs, and 74% of labels had undisclosed ingredients listed as “fragrance.” The most prevalent chemicals were parabens, cyclosiloxanes, and formaldehyde releasers. GCxGC-TOFMS found additional CoCs, including fragrances, solvents, preservatives, ultraviolet filters, and contaminants.” “This study is one of the first detailed assessments of chemicals of concern found in various types of PCPs used by several racial/ethnic groups. We found that over half of the 546 products selected by community partners as marketed to and/or used by them contained ingredients linked to cancer, reproductive or developmental harm, or endocrine disruption. Laboratory analysis identified additional chemicals in a subset of products, including unlabeled fragrance chemicals and contaminants. Elucidating exposures to chemicals in PCPs is important for risk assessment and health inequity research.” “U.S. Black women report higher use of scented intimate care products, which is associated with higher urinary metabolites of diethyl phthalate [16] and higher blood levels of 1,4-dichlorobenzene and ethylbenzene, which can be fragrance additives [17].” “A separate analysis of 25 personal care products documented the presence of carcinogens, EDCs, respiratory toxicants, and developmental toxicants, and found that nearly 80% of those chemicals were fragrance ingredients exempt from labeling requirements [27].” “The fragrance ingredient lilial, which is a reproductive toxicant prohibited by the European Union, was common in hair and skin products.” “Of the 23 intimate care product labels we examined, including washes, sprays, powders, moisturizers, douches, and wipes, over 60% had undisclosed fragrance ingredients. We found undisclosed fragrance ingredients on 85% of all deodorant or perfume product labels, and the specific fragrance ingredients, lilial and galaxolide, were each listed on 10% of deodorant/perfume products.”

Jurewicz J Exposure to widespread environmental toxicants and children's cognitive development and behavioral problems. “The results from the presented studies suggest that there are strong and rather consistent indications that the developing nervous system is particularly vulnerable to insult from low levels of exposure to widespread environmental contaminants such as: phthalates, bisphenol A, brominated flame retardants, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, gas cooking.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Karlberg AT Activation of non-sensitizing or low-sensitizing fragrance substances into potent sensitizers - prehaptens and prohaptens. “The present review shows that several fragrance substances, including the most commonly used, easily autoxidize on contact with air, forming potent sensitizers that can be an important source of contact allergy to fragrances and fragranced products…. So far, all fragrance substances that have been investigated with regard to the influence of autoxidation on the allergenic potential have oxidizable allylic positions that are able to form hydroperoxides as primary oxidation products upon air exposure. Identification of the oxidation products in the oxidation mixture shows that hydroperoxides further oxidize, forming secondary oxidation products, finally leading to polymeric compounds. Once the hydroperoxides have been formed, they can form specific antigens and act as skin sensitizers….” “Secondary oxidation products, such as aldehydes and epoxides, can also be allergenic, thus further increasing the sensitizing potency of the autoxidation mixture …. Conjugated aldehydes and allylic epoxides are especially important sensitizers, as is seen in the activation of geraniol, cinnamyl alcohol, and α-terpinene. Further experimental and clinical research in the area of abiotic and/or biotic activation of fragrance substances is clearly needed to increase the safety for the consumer. Overall, there is a need for more experimental research to further establish the impact of the behaviour of fragrance substances when applied on the skin.”

Karthikraj R Urinary concentrations and distribution profiles of 21 phthalate metabolites in pet cats and dogs. “Phthalates are widely used in several consumer products, including plastics, toys, cosmetics, and medical devices. We measured 21 phthalate monoester metabolites (PhMs) in the urine of pet cats (n = 50) and dogs (n = 50) collected from New York State, USA. PhMs were widely detected in all samples, and 12 of 21 PhMs had detection frequencies (Dfs) N80%. The median urinary concentrations of total PhMs in pet cats and dogs were 630 ng/mL and 186 ng/mL, respectively. Monoethyl phthalate (mEP) was the most abundant compound in both cats and dogs. Phthalic acid (PA; a non-specific metabolite of phthalates) was found at very high concentrations in cats (median: 520 ng/mL). The estimated daily intake (EDI) and hazard quotient (HQ) for major phthalates in pets showed that DEHP exposures in cats and dogs were only 2-fold less than the US Environmental Protection Agency suggested reference dose (RfD) for humans….” “Phthalate metabolites (PhMs) were found in all feline and canine urine… Cat- and dog-specific RfD values are needed to accurately assess the risks, as these animals may be more vulnerable to chemical exposures.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Kawano T Acetaldehyde at a low concentration synergistically exacerbates allergic airway inflammation as an endocrine-disrupting chemical and as a volatile organic compound. “Acetaldehyde is an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) and a volatile organic compound (VOC). It is also a carcinogen and teratogen that causes bronchoconstriction in a subset of asthmatics. However, the mechanism through which acetaldehyde acts as an EDC/VOC causing allergic airway inflammation remains unknown.” “Conclusions: Exposure to acetaldehyde can enhance allergic airway inflammation in asthma.” [Note: Acetaldehyde is on the IFRA list. It is on the Carcinogens and Reproductive Toxicants List. “Acetaldehyde at a low concentration synergistically exacerbates allergic airway inflammation as an endocrine-disrupting chemical and as a volatile organic compound” ] [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?]

Kazemi Z Evaluation of pollutants in perfumes, colognes and health effects on the consumer: a systematic review. “Diethyl phthalate is a chemical used to make perfumes last longer. The U.S. Clean Water Act lists it as a toxic and priority pollutant.” “Complications of using perfume include neuropathy (depression, autism), neoplasms (breast cancer, prostate cancer), effects on the liver, migraine headaches, asthma attacks, mucosal symptoms (watery or red eyes, sneezing), neurological problems (dizziness, convulsions, headache, fainting, imbalance), respiratory (cough, shortness of breath), skin (skin rash, urticaria, redness of the skin, skin tingling, dermatitis), immune system (swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue), gastrointestinal tract (nausea, bloating, diarrhea) and cardiovascular (rapid or irregular heartbeat, tremors, chest discomfort)” “Contaminants in perfumes and colognes and their health effects on the consumer were systematically reviewed. It was found that the most attention of researchers was to identify the compounds in perfumes and colognes and their concentrations. Among the most common pollutants phthalates and their derivatives can be mentioned. Other pollutants included parabens, triclosan, salicylates, terpenes, aldehydes, benzene, toluene, styrene, and aluminum-based salts. These pollutants have also been shown to have adverse effects on consumer health such as asthma and allergies, cardiovascular disease, central nervous system damage, breast cancer, endocrine cancer, respiratory disorders, reproduction, thyroid, adrenal gland function and immune system.” [Note: Graphic lists “effects of exposure to perfumes and colognes”: Kidney Cancer, Liver Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Thyroid Disorder, Breast Cancer, Decreased Fertility, Asthma and Skin Dermatitis.] [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.]

Khalid M Environmental Distribution of Personal Care Products and Their Effects on Human Health. “Personal care products (PCPs) are generally used for personal hygiene, cleaning, grooming, and beautification. These include hair and skin care products, baby care products, UV blocking creams, facial cleansers, insect repellents, perfumes, fragrances, soap, detergents, shampoos, conditioners, toothpaste, etc., thus exposing humans easily.” “Evidence-based facts have confirmed the risks of serious adverse effects associated with various chemical contaminants of PCPs, which are not limited to an individual but spread to the entire ecosystem involving human, wild, and marine life. “In conclusion, the emerging environmental contaminants of PCPs and their association with the growing risks of negative effects on human health and globally on the environment emphasize the chemical-free simple lifestyle.”

Kim S Characterization of air freshener emission: the potential health effects. “The use of these products (air fresheners) may be associated with an increase in the measured level of terpene, such as xylene and other volatile air freshener components, including aldehydes, and esters. Air freshener is usually used indoors, and thus some compounds emitted from air freshener may have potentially harmful health impacts, including sensory irritation, respiratory symptoms, and dysfunction of the lungs.” “The constituents of air fresheners can react with ozone to produce secondary pollutants such as formaldehyde, secondary organic aerosol (SOA), oxidative product, and ultrafine particles. These pollutants then adversely affect human health, in many ways such as damage to the central nervous system, alteration of hormone levels, etc. In particular, the ultrafine particles may induce severe adverse effects on diverse organs, including the pulmonary and cardiovascular systems.” “This review suggests that exposure to air freshener compounds, such as VOCs that react with ozone to form secondary pollutants, cause diverse health issues. In addition, several key compounds such as benzene, terpenes, and phthalate etc. of air pollutants are related to air freshener use. We suggest that the use of air fresheners should be avoided, and there is a need to reduce chemical components which are potentially reactive with ozone in air fresheners.”

Kim S Inhaled exposure to air fresheners aggravated liver injury in a murine model of nonalcoholic fatty acid liver disease. ”...our scientific purpose of this study was to evaluate potential effects of fast-growing AF (Air Freshener) products on the increasing incidence of NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease). “The continuing trend for personal use of AFs at the global level has been increasing markedly year-on-year. Air fresheners are not only used for air care (malodor management), deodorant, and fragrance, but also for interior decoration (candles, votive and diffusers). The use of AFs has dramatically increased not only in homes, but also in offices, public places, and cars in Korea as well.” “…The results clearly demonstrated that AF exposure induced severe hepatic damage and liver fibrosis in High Fructose-fed mice, which are known to be NASH-like phenotypes characterized by hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and liver fibrosis.” Air freshener exposure: “...induces insulin resistance in normal diet mice.” “...promotes hepatic steatosis in high fructose mice.” “Induces hepatic inflammation in high fructose diet mice…” “Leads to liver fibrosis in high fructose fed mice…” “…In summary, the current study demonstrated that a mixture of diverse chemicals emitted from AF caused and aggravated liver damage in a NAFLD murine model.”

Kumar M Review on perfume and present status of its associated allergens. “It is concluded that most fragrance ingredients act as allergens and thus increases the risk of sensitization on activation.” “European Union Cosmetic Regulation 12/23/2009 listed 26 allergens but no other regulatory agencies specify perfumes as allergens, they just describe perfumes as cosmetic products. If any individual suffering from allergy, or contact dermatitis on its application, he/she should be aware regarding it and should reduce or avoid the use of those ingredients to overcome such problems of hyper-sensitivity.”

Kumar P Inhalation challenge effects of perfume scent strips in patients with asthma. “This study was undertaken to determine whether perfume inhalation from magazine scent strips could exacerbate asthma.” “Perfume-scented strips in magazines can cause exacerbations of symptoms and airway obstruction in asthmatic patients. Severe and atopic asthma increases risk of adverse respiratory reactions to perfumes.”

Kurşunoğlu NE Endocrine disruptor chemicals as obesogen and diabetogen: Clinical and mechanistic evidence. “Besides the obesogenic effect, EDCs can cause type 2 diabetes mellitus through alteration in ß cell function and morphology and insulin resistance.” Medical devices, including parenteral feeding tubes, personal care products such as nail polish and perfume, food packaging, and toys contain various phthalates[49]. Unfortunately, phthalates are poorly bio-degradable and highly bioaccumulative in the food chain[50]. “High phthalate exposure has been linked with increased threat of obesity and infertility, increased body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference, insulin resistance, and a change in thyroid hormones[49,52]”. “In this context, perinatal exposure can be important as far as the permanent and transgenerational effects are concerned. EDCs promote adipogenesis leading to fat accumulation, which causes alteration in lipid metabolism and satiety as obesogens. EDCs have shown the potential to induce adipose tissue dysfunction not only in white adipocytes but in brown and beige fat as well.” [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?] [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Kwack SJ Comparative toxicological evaluation of phthalate diesters and metabolites in Sprague-Dawley male rats for risk assessment. “Liver weights were significantly increased in groups treated with DEHP, DBP, BBP, DIDP, DINP, MEHP, and MBuP compared to the control. Testes weights were significantly reduced only in DEHP, DBP, and MEHP-treated groups compared to the control. Significant decreases in red blood cell (RBC) and hematocrit (Ht) levels were observed in DEHP-treated rats, whereas significant increases in mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and platelet (PLT) levels were found in the DEHP-treated group. Hemoglobin (Hb) level was reduced only in the DMP group. Similar to effects on testis and epididymal weights, DEHP and MEHP significantly reduced sperm numbers and motility.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Kwon KD Characterization of emissions composition for selected household products available in Korea. “Several studies have implicated these consumer products as sources of indoor air pollutants…. These compounds have been shown to cause symptoms similar to those characterized as Sick Building Syndrome; this is a group of symptoms that includes sleepiness, irritation, inability to concentrate, and other health hazards… A major cause of health-related problems for building occupants is the inhalation of consumer-product constituents.” “Furthermore, secondary toxic pollutants are formed by the reaction of unsaturated organic constituents with oxidants such as ozone, hydroxyl radicals, and nitrogen oxides…. For example, terpene, a major constituent of household products such as cleaning products and air fresheners…, reacts with ozone thus leading to the formation of formaldehyde…” “Of the 59 household products analyzed, 58 emitted one or more of the 72 compounds at chromatographic peak areas above 10(4). There were 11 analytes which occurred with a frequency of more than 10%: limonene (44.2%), ethanol (30.5%), acetone (18.6%), alpha-pinene (18.6%), o,m,p-xylenes (18.6%), decane (17.0%), toluene (17.0%), beta-myrcene (11.9%), ammonia (10.2%), ethylbenzene (10.2%), and hexane (10.2%).” [Note: Bolded chemicals are chemicals found in fragrance/air fresheners/perfume/fragranced products] [Note: Formaldehyde is a secondary pollutant from fragrance and fragranced products. Also, a 2012 study, 21 out of 30 perfume samples were shown to release formaldehyde when tested but formaldehyde was not listed on any of the labels. Formaldehyde is a sensitizer and known allergen.] [Note: Limonene is a common skin sensitizer and known allergen in fragrance and fragranced products. Limonene (natural or synthetic) is a terpene. Terpenes can create formaldehyde and particulate matter in air as secondary pollutants. Limonene is on the IFRA list as a fragrance ingredient.] [Note: Toluene (often a nail polish thinner) is used as a solvent or fragrance in perfume and bath products on the CSPC Product Database. Toluene is on the IFRA list and on the EPA’s Priority Pollutant List.]

Lee I Identification of combinations of endocrine disrupting chemicals in household chemical products that require mixture toxicity testing. “The present study listed the ingredients contained in 11064 household chemical products from a publicly available database, and identified EDCs related to estrogenicity, androgenicity, thyroid hormone disruption, and changes in steroidogenesis.” “A total of 293 chemicals were related to endocrine disruption, and nearly two-thirds of the products contained more than one of these chemicals. Cleaning products, synthetic detergents, fabric softeners, air fresheners, and deodorants have several hotspots for fragrances, isothiazolinones, glycol ethers, and parabens. The three most prevalent EDCs in household chemical products were added to act as fragrances and preservatives.” “The most frequently observed EDCs in the five product groups are hexyl cinnamaldehyde, geraniol, citronellol, 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl)propionaldehyde (CAS no. 80-54-6), and benzyl benzoate (CAS no. 120-51-4). These EDCs are commonly used to add fragrance.” “The most frequently identified combinations were benzisothiazolinone and butylated hydroxytoluene (CAS no. 128-37-0) in cleaners, benzisothiazolinone and hexyl cinnamaldehyde in synthetic detergents, 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl)propionaldehyde and citronellol in fabric softeners, benzyl benzoate and hexyl cinnamaldehyde in air fresheners, and geraniol and citral (CAS no. 5392-40-5) in deodorants. The EDCs in these products were mostly included to act as fragrances and preservatives.” “Consistent with the results of this study, Wieck et al. (2018) reported that 26 fragrances were named approximately 2000 times on the ingredient list of 1447 household detergents, and fragrances such as limonene, linalool, hexyl cinnamaldehyde, 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl)propionaldehyde, and citronellol were frequently mentioned (Wieck et al., 2018, Yazar et al., 2011).... Geraniol appeared to have the potential to interact with estrogen receptors in estrogen-inducible yeast expressing the human estrogen receptor (Howes et al., 2002).... Benzyl benzoate and 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl)propionaldehyde added to synthetic detergents, fabric softeners, and air fresheners were reported to induce estrogenic responses in MCF-7 human breast cancer cell line (Charles and Darbre, 2009). “This study confirmed that DEHP, DINP, and DBP were used in cleaners, synthetic detergents, coating agents, adhesives, air fresheners, and paints. Exposure to DEHP or DBP at levels seen in human populations has been linked to male reproductive defects, such as poor semen quality and abnormal genital development (Radke et al., 2018).”

Lee JH Relationship between indoor air pollutant levels and residential environment in children withatopic dermatitis. “The prevalence of AD (Atopic Dermatitis) is currently increasing and the incidence in children is reported to range from 15-30% worldwide….” “Exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can damage the epidermal barrier and enhance adverse effects of house dust mites on sensitized subjects with AD. Exposure to formaldehyde and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) at domestic concentration can cause skin barrier function impairment in patients with AD.” “Indoor air pollutant concentrations were measured including particulate matter with diameter less than 10 µm (PM10), formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), total volatile organic compound (TVOC), benzene, toluene, ethyl-benzene, xylene, styrene, bacterial aerosols and airborne fungi.” “In conclusion,…To alleviate AD symptoms, identifying aggravating factors including indoor air quality is important. In this regard, simple questioning about aspects of residential environment such as visible fungus on the walls and the use of artificial air freshener are helpful to assess the possibility of increased indoor air pollutant levels when direct measurement is not feasible.” [Note: Benzene is a reported fragrance ingredient in the CSCP Product Database.] [Note: Toluene (often a nail polish thinner) is used as a solvent or fragrance in perfume and bath products on the CSPC Product Database. Toluene is on the IFRA list and on the EPA’s Priority Pollutant List.] [Note: Xylene “occurs naturally in petroleum and coal tar, and is major component of gasoline and fuel oil”. Xylene is used as a musk fragrance. Xylene is on IFRA.] [Note: Styrene is “primarily a synthetic chemical” used in fragrance. It is on the CSPC list as ‘parfum/fragrance’ and also on the IFRA list.]

Lessenger JE Occupational acute anaphylactic reaction to assault by perfume spray in the face. “Conclusion: Sprayed perfumes can now be added to the long list of methods of occupational assault. The many organic compounds present in perfumes have been documented to cause or exacerbate asthma, eczema, or dermatitis. This case represents an incident of acute asthmatic symptoms in a person with pollen allergies when exposed to a large amount of perfume.”

Li D Health risks of chemicals in consumer products: A review. “It should also be noted that some chemicals have multiple functional uses, while we chose the most dominant functional use for each chemical. An example is the grouping of phthalates. Despite categorized as plasticizer together in this review, several phthalates such as diethyl phthalate and dimethyl phthalate are used as solvents in personal care products and cosmetics as carriers of fragrance (Schettler, 2006).” “…we found that the volume of the peer-reviewed literature that addresses human health risks of the chemicals in consumer products did grow over the last two decades, while its growth could by no means match the speed of increasing volume and diversity of the chemicals produced and used in consumer products by the society. This growing gap between increasing reliance on chemicals in consumer products and our knowledge on their human health risks raises a potential public health concern, given the pervasive nature of today's mass production and consumption practice.” “As a result, peer-reviewed journal publications largely failed to serve as an early warning or a preventive mechanism. The humidifier disinfectant incident in South Korea is a stark example that shows the potential vulnerability in chemical exposure through consumer products and its consequences, as well as the limited role for peer-reviewed journal publications to prevent them. It also highlights the needs for understanding the risks of chemicals before putting them into consumer products, while the rapidly growing diversity of synthetic chemicals often makes the generation of necessary data cost-prohibitive. As a result, we observed that scientific literature tends to appear only after the outbreak of major exposure incidents, or they tend to be concentrated in the chemicals or chemical groups of which human health risks have been previously reported. This is a structural problem that is poised to grow under the current practice.” “We believe that there is an urgent need for creating the framework conditions that encourage more exploratory and speculative risk assessments and their publications in peer-reviewed journal space in the absence of known human health risks. Reducing the costs and time needed for toxicity and exposure assessments is a key, to which the developments in predictive toxicity and risk assessment techniques for screening-level assessment, as well as the use of systematic prioritization for high-risk exposure pathways and chemicals in consumer products would be crucial.”

Li W Effects of indoor environment and lifestyle on respiratory health of children in Chongqing, China. “Frequent use of air fresheners is associated with reduced lung function in children.” “According to an WHO report, 100 thousand people die of asthma every year due to indoor air pollution around the world, of which 35% are children.” “A study conducted in American adults found that 1,4-dichlorobenzene (1,4-DCB) was associated with reduced pulmonary function… 1,4-DCB was commonly found in air fresheners, toilet bowl deodorants, and mothballs.” “Air fresheners have also been found to increase lung irritation and toxic effects on mice in acute toxicity experiments on mice. There are numerous types of air fresheners, which traditionally consist of diethyl ether and aromatic flavor ingredients. Besides, propane, butane, dimethyl ether and other ingredients are added to high-pressure canned products and these ingredients could impair children’s lung function. The use of air fresheners does not improve indoor air quality. Instead, it could exacerbate indoor pollution.” [Note: The chemicals used in fragrance in products, including air fresheners, qualify as ‘trade secrets’.] [Note: IN THE NEWS - On Dec. 29, 2022, the MOCRA - (Modernization of Cosmetic Regulation Act) was signed into law. This makes the U.S. catch up a little with the U.K. as far as listing fragrance allergens go, but this Act may tie the hands of states ability to make laws pertaining to disclosing other concerning fragrance ingredients. To learn more, see what Women’s Voices for the Earth (WVE) figured out. To read the Act, go to congress.gov link/PDF (page 1396).]

Lim S The associations between personal care products use and urinary concentrations of phthalates, parabens, and triclosan in various age groups: The Korean National Environmental Health Survey Cycle 3 2015-2017. “Phthalates and parabens are ubiquitous chemicals of public concern… Furthermore, the use of fragrance products, makeup, and air fresheners significantly increased the exposure risk to EtP in preschoolers.” “Furthermore, the exposure levels of many phthalates, parabens, and TCS are higher in children than adults(NIER, 2018; Wang et al., 2019) and children are a susceptible population to these chemicals. In the case of parabens, the estimated dermal absorption amount of parabens related with PCPs use in infants and toddlers was several times higher than that in adult women(Guo and Kennan, 2013).” “Exposure to phthalates and parabens is an important public concern, especially with respect to the potential endocrine disrupting effects of phthalates (DEHP, DBP, and BBP) (European Commission, 2000) and the anti-androgenic effect of parabens (Orton et al., 2014). Additionally, exposure to phthalates in the prenatal period was associated with asthma (Berger et al., 2020) and psychomotor development (Qian et al., 2019) in children and was related to allergic symptoms, sensitization (Hoppin et al., 2013), preterm birth(Ferguson et al., 2019) and type 2 diabetes in adults (Sun et al., 2014).” “This study showed the associations between PCPs use and urinary concentrations of phthalates, parabens, and TCS in various age groups in a nationally representative population in Korea. The exposure risks to these chemicals were different according to the patterns of PCPs use by age groups and gender. Female participants used all categories of PCPs more frequently than male participants in adolescents and adults, with statistical significance.” [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?] [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Lin CH Association between indoor air pollution and respiratory disease in companion dogs and cats. “Among various well-known air pollutants, environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) has long been suspected of causing or exacerbating some chronic respiratory diseases in the veterinary literatures, such as feline lower airway disease, canine chronic bronchitis, and canine lymphoplasmacytic rhinitis.” “The prevalence of signs of respiratory problem in pet dogs and cats was 89.0% and 73%, respectively, and the presence of signs of respiratory problem with “often or more” frequency was found for 45.0% of pet dogs and 19% of pet cats. The prevalence of secondhand smoke, cooking behavior/cooking fumes, incense burning, and household chemicals in the pets home were 32.9%, 72.6%, 17.1%, and 11.6%, respectively.” [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.]

Lin CH An observational study of the role of indoor air pollution in pets with naturally acquired bronchial/lung disease. “In conclusion, this study showed that poor air quality (PM2.5 level >35 μg/m3 or VOC concentration >1 ppm) was associated with a hypercellular response in the mucosa of the lower airways in dogs with naturally acquired bronchial/lung disease. … The possible threat of IAP is an emerging ‘One Health’ issue that affects both pets and their owners in modern society.” [Note: Fragranced products emit VOC’s that can contribute to higher particulate matter (PM) indoors and out.]

Lin N Volatile organic compounds in feminine hygiene products sold in the US market: A survey of products and health risks. “VOCs are components of FHPs (feminine hygiene products) that are added as fragrances, adsorbents, moisture barriers, adhesives, and binders…Most of the larger non-target peaks were identified as fragrances, such as linalool, eucalyptol and benzyl acetate. Feminine hygiene products (FHPs) are used on highly permeable and sensitive vaginal and vulvar tissues by many women. These products contain a variety of chemicals, and few regulations require disclosure of their ingredients….” “Products labeled as “organic,” “natural,” or “for sensitive skin” did not necessarily have lower VOC concentrations.…menstrual pads had hazard ratios of up to 11, sprays and powders had hazard ratios of up to 2.2 and excess cancer risks of up to 2.1 × 10−6, and washes had excess cancer risks of up to 3.3 × 10−6. Our data suggest that all tested FHPs contained some toxic VOCs...” “Exposure to high concentrations or long-term exposure of VOCs has been associated with many known or suspected effects including irritation to eyes, skin and nose; damage to the respiratory system, liver and kidney; reproductive effects; and carcinogenicity” “Examples of notable VOCs include benzene, a known carcinogen (US EPA, 1998), 1,4-dioxane, a likely carcinogen (US EPA, 2013), and naphthalene, a possible carcinogen due to possible genetic toxicity (Schreiner, 2003; US EPA, 1999). Health risks (carcinogenic or non-carcinogenic) related to the use of FHPs over the lifecourse remain unanswered.” [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.]

Logue JM Hazard assessment of chemical air contaminants measured in residences. “Fifteen pollutants appear to exceed chronic health standards in a large fraction of homes. Nine other pollutants are identified as potential chronic health hazards in a substantial minority of homes, and an additional nine are identified as potential hazards in a very small percentage of homes. Nine pollutants are identified as priority hazards based on the robustness of measured concentration data and the fraction of residences that appear to be impacted: acetaldehyde; acrolein; benzene; 1,3-butadiene; 1,4-dichlorobenzene; formaldehyde; naphthalene; nitrogen dioxide; and PM2.5. Activity-based emissions are shown to pose potential acute health hazards for PM(2.5), formaldehyde, CO, chloroform, and NO(2).” [Note: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC’s) are commonly used in perfumes and fragranced products as preservatives or fragrance. What are EDC’s and how can they affect us?] [Note: Acetaldehyde is on the IFRA list. It is on the Carcinogens and Reproductive Toxicants List. “Acetaldehyde at a low concentration synergistically exacerbates allergic airway inflammation as an endocrine-disrupting chemical and as a volatile organic compound” ] [Note: Benzene is a reported fragrance ingredient in the CSCP Product Database.]

Marcelis Q Development and application of a novel method to assess exposure levels of sensitizing and irritating substances leaching from menstrual hygiene products. “All fragrance chemicals selected for the method development are classified as skin sensitizers category 1B…Six products were found to leach at least one of the following five sensitizing and irritating compounds: α-isomethyl ionone, benzyl salicylate, hexyl cinnamaldehyde, linalool and piperonal. Piperonal was the most abundant compound leaching from the MHPs, with leaching concentration levels measured to 28.22 μg/g. In addition, the leaching level of benzyl salicylate was found to be 11.03 μg/g. The latter fragrance concentration is above 10 μg/g and would trigger mandatory labelling if the Cosmetic Regulation would apply for MHPs. However, none of the identified and quantified skin sensitizers were mentioned on the package.”

Minciullo PL Airborne contact dermatitis to drugs. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). “Airborne agents consist of volatile substances, droplets of the causative agent, and solid particles originated from powdery dust of various materials.” “Airborne reactions involve exposed areas, such as the face, the neck, the hands, wrists, underarms; however, reactions on non-exposed areas (by particles trapped under clothing) have been also reported. Generalised reactions may occur due to inhalation or transcutaneous absorption.” “Airborne causes are still greatly underestimated because reports in the literature often omit this term when dust or volatile substances are responsible for skin reactions.“ [Note: Airborne Contact Dermatitis happens with fragrance chemicals as well ie: air fresheners, laundry, deodorant, dish soap, floor cleaners and hand sanitizers. Anyone with contact allergies cannot avoid the air, please go Fragrance Free with all products especially in healthcare, dental, schools, or any public space.]

Mohajer N Obesogens: How They Are Identified and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Their Action.

Montes-Grajales D Occurrence of personal care products as emerging chemicals of concern in water resources: A review. “Personal care products (PCPs) are a diverse group of common household substances used for health, beauty and cleaning purposes. These include disinfectants, fragrances, insect repellents, preservatives and UV filters, among others. Some of them are considered chemicals of emerging concern due to their presence and negative impact on aquatic ecosystems, specially related to endocrine disruption and reproductive disorders.” “PCPs (personal care products) include a large number of synthetic chemicals used in everyday products such as soaps, lotions, toothpaste, fragrances, cosmetics and sunscreens. The extensive use of them, improperly disposal, and inefficient treatment of urban wastewater contribute to the contamination of water bodies by PCPs and their metabolite.” “The contamination of the water reservoirs by PCPs is of interest due to their potential toxicity to aquatic ecosystems and human beings, as many of them have been reported as environmental persistent, bioactive, bioaccumulative and endocrine disrupting compounds.” “PCPs have been found in all the continents in aquatic ecosystems, even at concentrations above the toxicity threshold for some species.” [Note: Galaxolide is a musk. Most Musk in fragrances are created synthetically.]

Müller AK Evaluation of the health risk to animals playing with phthalate containing toys. Miljøstyrelsen. Survey of Chemical Substances in Consumer Products No. 74 “The exposure via toys may be a major source of phthalate exposure to dogs. However as for humans, animals may also be exposed to phthalates via other sources (environment, food, consumer products). This includes exposure to DEHP and DINP, but also other phthalates e.g DBP where combined actions could be expected.” “As an advice to the animal owners, they can reduce the potential health risk to their animals by limiting the animal’s use of toys that potentially contain phthalates especially during pregnancy and as pups.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Nardelli A Fragrance allergens in 'specific' cosmetic products. “This study not only underlines the usefulness of fragrance-ingredient labelling in order to identify the causal allergen(s) present in specific cosmetic products, but may also provide information on trends in the actual use of sensitizing fragrance ingredients in them.”

Nardelli A Allergic contact dermatitis from fragrance components in specific topical pharmaceutical products in Belgium. “Three hundred and seventy (10%) of 3280 of the topical pharmaceutical products were found to contain a total of 66 fragrance substances. Among 3378 patients suffering from iatrogenic allergic contact dermatitis, 127 were found to react to 48 specific products, for which 38 different fragrance substances gave relevant positive reactions. Women were more affected than men, and legs, hands, and face were the most commonly affected body sites.” “Fragrances, the presence of which is in most cases unnecessary, do contribute to iatrogenic allergic contact dermatitis. Moreover, sensitized patients have difficulties in avoiding their specific allergens because standardized labelling of the ingredients in pharmaceutical products is lacking.” [Note: In the EU, 26 known fragrance allergens have been a labeling requirement since 2009, but as of 2022 the EU is planning to add 56 more fragrance allergens.] [Note: IN THE U.S. NEWS - On Dec. 29, 2022, the MOCRA - (Modernization of Cosmetic Regulation Act) was signed into law. In a few years, the U.S. should start listing fragrance allergens in cosmetics, but this Act may tie the hands of states' ability to make a law pertaining to disclosing the over 3,000 other potentially concerning fragrance ingredients (like California did). To learn more, see what Women’s Voices for the Earth (WVE) have figured out. To read the Act, go to congress.gov link/PDF (page 1396). What to know: Which products qualify as ‘cosmetics’ and Who regulates what?? Items such as fragranced laundry products, air fresheners, carpet fragrance, fragrance in cleaning products or car / car wash fragrances are not considered cosmetics, therefore, it is safe to say that companies who sell these products will not be obligated to list the known fragrance allergens in their products.]

Neale H Pediatric allergic contact dermatitis. Part I: Clinical features and common contact allergens in children. “Children can develop ACD (Allergic Contact Dermatitis) at any age…. Therefore, all children should be asked about the use of personal care products such as shampoos, soaps, lotions, detergents, and topical medications.…systemic contact dermatitis can occur through oral ingestion of contact allergens in food, such as carmine in red velvet cupcakes, nickel in oatmeal and cocoa, and balsam of Peru (BoP) in ketchup….Nickel, fragrance mix (FM) I, BoP, propylene glycol, CAPB, bacitracin, neomycin, cobalt, formaldehyde (and its releasers), methylisothiazolinone (MI), and lanolin are top relevant allergens in the United States.” “Fragrances are ubiquitous environmental allergens, and although there are potentially thousands of allergenic fragrance chemicals, fragrance markers such as BoP, FM I, and FM II are most frequently used in patch testing…. Fragrances are often used in household products like candles and cleaning supplies. Children may also be exposed to fragrances used by their care takers, such as perfumes, leading to cases of connubial ACD.” “Formaldehyde is found in cosmetic and personal care products (including baby products), cleaning supplies, adhesives, sporting equipment, and paints. One study showed that more than 25% of those with PPTs to formaldehyde were also sensitized to its releasers such as quaternium-15, dimethyloldimethyl hydantoin, bronopol, diazolidinyl urea, and imidazolidinyl urea. “Often, products such as baby wipes may contain formaldehyde releasers even though they may not be listed among the ingredients. Formaldehyde (and releasers) contact allergy is more frequent in the United States compared to Europe, likely reflecting stricter regulation of product concentration and labeling in Europe.” [Note: Balsam of Peru is used in fragrance and is a known allergen. Like with all fragrance allergies, avoidance is suggested.] [Note: Formaldehyde is a secondary pollutant from fragrance and fragranced products. Also, a 2012 study, 21 out of 30 perfume samples were shown to release formaldehyde when tested but formaldehyde was not listed on any of the labels. Formaldehyde is a sensitizer and known allergen.]

Nguyen HL Contact Dermatitis to Medications and Skin Products. “Today, consumer products, such as soaps, moisturizing creams, cosmetics, household cleaners, fragrances, topical medication, and others, contain a myriad of ingredients that can cause skin allergy. When these products contact the skin, they can produce eczematous pruritic reactions known as contact dermatitis…” “…the prevalence of contact dermatitis has been increasing worldwide for the past few decades.” “Fragrance mix I, fragrance mix II, and Myroxylon pereirae resin (Balsam of Peru) are in the top 11 allergens of the NACDG 2013–2014…” “Fragrance mix I contains eight allergens: cinnamic alcohol, cinnamic aldehyde, α-amylcinnamal aldehyde, eugenol, isoeugenol, hydroxycitronellal, geraniol, and oakmoss absolute…” “…fragrance mix II was introduced with six more compounds: hydroxyisohexyl-3-Cyclohexene- carboxaldehyde (HICC), citral, farnesol, coumarin, citronellol, and α-hexylcinnamal …” [Note: also see, Airborne Contact Dermatitis, these reactions are happening to people when fragrance chemicals float around and are simply present in the air. For example, someone can react if their caregiver or person next to them uses fragranced laundry products.]

Niehoff NM Airborne mammary carcinogens and breast cancer risk in the Sister Study. “In a large, US-wide population, methylene chloride, along with several other hazardous air pollutants (including polycyclic organic matter, propylene dichloride, and styrene), showed some evidence of association with an increased risk of overall and ER+ breast cancer. We also found that the air toxic-breast cancer associations were stronger among overweight/obese women.” [Note: Styrene is “primarily a synthetic chemical” used in fragrance. It is on the CSPC list as ‘parfum/fragrance’ and also on the IFRA list.]

Nisitha S Toxic Chemicals Emitted from Air fresheners & Disinfectants. "Nearly everyone among us has been using some kind of pollutant-emitting product. The common pollutants released from air fresheners and disinfectants are volatile organic compounds and non-methane volatile organic compounds, and some of them can cause secondary elements (like ozone) and affect the environment as well as human beings. Exposure to these pollutants may cause numerous disorders, which are also discussed. The most common mono-terpenes (-pinene, geraniol, limonene, linalool, and terpineol) are recognized skin allergens despite being minor sensory irritants. Most spray-style air fresheners include gas propellants that contribute to global warming, such as LPG, propane, and butane. Chemicals that can cause asthma, such as chlorine, can be created via the wrong or accidental mixing of chemical compounds. Inflammatory responses have been shown in human cell bioassays using ozone-initiated terpene reactions. Inflamed airways will probably be more susceptible to inhalation exposures, such as re-suspended dirt particles and their chemically reactive surfaces. For example, elevated exposure to re-suspended dust and dirt particles during domestic cleaning and use of spray products reduced heart-rate variability, a marker of autonomic cardiac dysfunction; this might impact the general health of the cleaning personnel. The reduction of the heart-rate variability appeared more severe among those with obstructive lung diseases."

Niu X Indoor secondary organic aerosols formation from ozonolysis of monoterpene: An example of d-limonene with ammonia and potential impacts on pulmonary inflammations. “Monoterpene is one class of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) which widely presents in household cleaning products and air fresheners. It plays reactive role in secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) formation with ozone (O3) in indoor environments. Such ozonolysis can be influenced by the presence of gaseous pollutants such as ammonia (NH3). This study focuses on investigations of ozone-initiated formation of indoor SOAs with d-limonene, one of the most abundant indoor monoterpenes, in a large environmental chamber…. The results indicated that there was 22-39% stronger pulmonary inflammatory effect on the particles generated with NH3 (ammonia)…” [Note: Limonene is a common skin sensitizer and known allergen in fragrance and fragranced products. Limonene (natural or synthetic) is a terpene. Terpenes can create formaldehyde and particulate matter in air as secondary pollutants. Limonene is on the IFRA list as a fragrance ingredient.]

Oyer-Peterson K A pilot study of total personal exposure to volatile organic compounds among Hispanic female domestic cleaners. “Cleaners have an elevated risk for the development or exacerbation of asthma and other respiratory conditions, possibly due to exposure to cleaning products containing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) leading to inflammation and oxidative stress. …29% and 20% reported suffering from skin irritation and trouble breathing…” “...the highest exposures experienced by the women were from d-limonene (mean = 22.5 ppb; median = 4.3 ppb), followed by toluene (mean = 1.5 ppb; median = 1.1 ppb), α-pinene (mean = 0.8 ppb; median = 0.7 ppb) and β-pinene (mean = 0.7 ppb; median = 0.6 ppb)...” “Additionally, while they are exposed to myriad VOCs, these women were particularly exposed to terpene compounds, which are often found in scented cleaning products.”

Panico A Skin safety and health prevention: an overview of chemicals in cosmetic products. “Cosmetic products contain a wide range of chemicals to which we are exposed everyday.” “Fragrances were present in 52.3% of the examined products, mostly limonene (76.9%) and linalool (64.6%) but also citronellol (34.1%), geraniol (31.5%), coumarin (30%) and hexyl cinnamal (29.2%).” “…substances may induce several acute adverse side-effects, i.e. contact dermatitis and allergic reactions. For these reasons, an enhancement of the criteria used for cosmetics formulation is required since many chemicals used singularly or combined are potentially unsafe.”

Park CJ Sanitary pads and diapers contain higher phthalate contents than those in common commercial plastic products. “Exposure to phthalates is known to affect the development and functions of the cardiovascular, reproductive and endocrine systems.” “This study found that most of sanitary pads or diapers surveyed contained both VOCs and phthalates.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Pastor-Nieto MA Ubiquity, Hazardous Effects, and Risk Assessment of Fragrances in Consumer Products. “Fragrances are the most frequent chemicals causing contact dermatitis…. It is difficult for sensitized patients to avoid contact with fragrances, due to their ubiquity and because manufacturers are not willing to volunteer information regarding fragrance ingredients…. The incidence of dermatitis from cosmetics is difficult to determine. Sometimes, it is mild and consumers do not seek medical care but simply stop using the product. Some fragrance-sensitized patients do not even suspect their allergy.” “Some fragrances are carcinogens, mutagens, and toxic to reproduction (CMR substances), thus classified with H341, H351, or H360. Respiratory, neuroendocrine, and psychological effects have also been discussed.” “Absorbent hygiene products (tampons, panty liners, and sanitary pads) contain fragrances (limonene, linalool, citronellal, geraniol, hydroxycitronellal, hexyl cinnamal, and benzyl salicylate). Some contain fragrances above 10 μg/g. Over-the-counter diaper products contain M. pereirae (MP; balsam of Peru). These products pose high sensitization risk (applied to moist-occluded areas)... Anaphylaxis involving a nurse assaulted by a patient who sprayed perfume in her eyes was reported.” “Fragrances have neurotoxic and neurostimulatory effects. Chemically intolerant fragrance-sensitive mothers were found three times more likely to have a child with autism.”

Patel S Fragrance compounds: The wolves in sheep's clothings. “It is deplorable and alarming that awareness of the threats of perfume allergy is very low. Tricked by aggressive advertisement and to improve aesthetic appeal, people are exposing themselves to multiple chemical fragrance compounds. Further, it is a matter of concern that an alert individual cannot escape the perils of fragrances by mere lifestyle revision, and avoidance of the chemicals. Like the harms of passive smoking, passive exposure to the perfumes occurs in a number of public places. In realization of the dangers of peanut allergy to vulnerable individuals, peanut was pulled off from the food platter in passenger planes. Similar awareness and action is needed for perfumes as well.… An aware individual does not deserve to get the brunt of someone else’s reckless lifestyle choices. Also, the cleaning staff in public places must be trained so as to ensure prevention of perfume abuse i.e. excess usage.” “A study found traces of musk fragrances such as galaxolide, tonalide, cashmeran, and UV-filters in marine species (mussel, clam, flounder, herring and mullet) and macroalgae, which constitute seafood. These bioaccumulated xenobiotics will ultimately reach to the human body via the food chain” “Perfume manufacturers do not disclose the ingredients and quantity of the fragrance compounds in the name of ‘trade secret’. Though they ought to abide by ethics, for profit and the goals of high market share, they forgo those. With the help of unscrupulous advertisements and sponsored research reports, they keep luring naive and unaware consumers…. It is appalling that even if people know the threats, they continue using these toxins, resonating the ‘‘death wish” concept discussed in the popular TV series ‘‘Mad men”.... The fragrance compounds so ubiquitous in modern times initiate vicious cycles of ‘exposure – pathologies – drugs’, which must be understood, information disseminated and terminated. Based on the review work and hypotheses, it can be stated that perfumes and other fragrance compounds in day-to-day consumer products are ‘slow killers with fatal punch’. “Growing recognition of the widespread use of fragrances in modern society is alarming. These pleasant-seeming deleterious compounds are the causal factors of a wide array of immuneneural- hormonal health issues. Allergy, irritation, migraine, asthma, depression, high blood pressure, diabetes and other symptoms should not be trivialized. Unheeded, and continued, the fragrance compounds can lead to gynaecomastia, cancers, gender manipulation, teratogenicity.” “Creating public awareness is essential to avoid grave health consequences. Toxicology research on perfumes must be prioritized, just like other urgent topics like ‘antibiotics-drug resistance’ and ‘pesticide-food safety’. This review ‘though barely scratches the surface’ of the enormous health threats of ‘synthetic fragrances’ is expected to evoke alertness.” [Note: Gynaecomastia is enlarged male breast tissue]

Patel S Need of the hour: to raise awareness on vicious fragrances and synthetic musks. “The exposure to the synthetic fragrances and musks, which are produced in quantities of thousands of tons per year, has been shown to elicit several pathologies.” “The fragrance compounds are regarded as toxins by the human immune system, and to eliminate them, cytochrome enzymes, especially aromatases, are overexpressed. These enzymes also convert androgens into estrogens, but excess estrogen production affects the endocrine system in both males and females.” “It is increasingly being evident that all diseases have common roots, i.e., inflammation.” “The unprecedented prevalence of diabetes, obesity, cancer, and depression, among others pathologies, is tied to the limitless usage of fragrance compounds.”

Pereira L Aromatic Amines Sources, Environmental Impact and Remediation. “Aromatic amines are widely used industrial chemicals as their major sources in the environment include several chemical industry sectors such as oil refining, synthetic polymers, dyes, adhesives, rubbers, perfume, pharmaceuticals, pesticides and explosives. They result also from diesel exhaust, combustion of wood chips and rubber and tobacco smoke. Some types of aromatic amines are generated during cooking, special grilled meat and fish, as well. The intensive use and production of these compounds explains its occurrence in the environment such as in air, water and soil, thereby creating a potential for human exposure. Since aromatic amines are potential carcinogenic and toxic agents, they constitute an important class of environmental pollutants of enormous concern, which efficient removal is a crucial task for researchers, so several methods have been investigated and applied.” [Note: Aromatic amine levels have been studied in pets. See the next article: Urinary and fecal excretion of aromatic amines in pet dogs and cats from the United States.]

Pinkas A Neurotoxicity of fragrance compounds: A review. “Most fragrance compounds belong to one of three families: phthalates, synthetic musks and “sensitizers” – a group where some phthalates and synthetic musks might also be found (Bridges, 2002; Llompart et al., 2013; Siti Zulaikha et al., 2015). These compounds accumulate in the environment and wildlife, thus serving as a source for secondary exposure in humans (in addition to direct exposure following application).” “Several health concerns are associated with exposure to fragrance compounds: skin, respiratory, neurological and systemic pathology are a few examples (Bridges, 2002). Fragrance compounds are consistently presented as either the first or second most common contributors to allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and fragrance products, when compared to over 200 other commercial products, contain the highest number and concentration of endocrine disruptors and asthma-related compounds…” “Here, we argue in favor of additional studies for elucidating the neurotoxicity of fragrance compounds and its underlying mechanisms.”

Pizzorno J Is the Diabetes Epidemic Primarily Due to Toxins? “The incidence of diabetes has increased 7 to 10-fold in the past 50 years. Although increased sugar consumption, obesity, and lack of exercise certainly contribute, the effect of environmental toxins may be far greater. The data are so compelling that some researchers now label these toxins as diabetogens. This editorial summarizes the research showing which toxins are the worst offenders, how they disrupt blood sugar control, where they come from, how to assess body load, and strategies for detoxification and excretion.” “Another possibility is the increased incidence of obesity which is a known major risk factor for diabetes. However, the obesity epidemic appears because of the same causes as diabetes: diabetogens, many of which are also called obesogens. Of particular significance is the surprising observation that obese people with low levels of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) do not have an increased risk of diabetes.3 In contrast, as can be seen in Figure 3, the diabetes epidemic does correlate with the rate of release of POPs into the environment…. More convincing is the correlation between body load of POPs and risk of metabolic syndrome as seen in Figure 4, and the association is synergistic. When POP levels versus diabetes risk is examined, the case becomes even more compelling, as shown in Figure 5.’ “Adding up the numbers shows potentially the whole epidemic is apparently due to the massive increase in body load of toxins. A big caveat is that there is a real problem with nonindependence of the correlations and that many of these diabetogens are also being labeled obesogens, as there is substantial overlap of mechanisms of damage. Nonetheless, even if we do not know the exact percentage contribution of each toxin, their role in the epidemic appears undeniable.” “Phthalates are a family of organic chemicals used as plasticizers (to increase flexibility, transparency, and durability) and for multiple manufactured product purposes, such as to solubilize and stabilize fragrances in cosmetics.” “Diethyl phthalate and dibutyl phthalate are especially common in health and beauty aids, except in Europe where they have now been banned due the very large amount of research showing their toxicity, regardless of the source. As can be seen in Figure 11, phthalate levels in the blood directly correlate with use of health and beauty aids.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Pona A Scented lotions may cause scaring and premature fading of tattoos. “The purpose of this case presentation is to provide evidence that scented lotions could potentially harm healing tattoos and should be mentioned in aftercare instructions.” “On day 1 after application of the scented lotion, the healing tattooed skin became erythematous and pruritic minutes after applying the scented lotion. On day 2, the tattooed skin became swollen and developed light pink plaques with multiple 1-2mm erosions, scabbing, and silver scales.” “Avoidance of scented lotions and use of inert vehicles on a tattoo should be included in the tattoo aftercare instructions. New tattoos should be treated like a wound. Failure to avoid scented vehicles could precipitate an allergic or irritant contact dermatitis, which may lead to significant tattoo fading, delayed wound healing, and scar formation.”

Posnack NG Phthalate exposure changes the metabolic profile of cardiac muscle cells. “Data suggest that DEHP exposure results in metabolic remodeling of cardiomyocytes, whereby cardiac cells increase their dependence on fatty acids for energy production. This fuel switch may be regulated at both the gene expression and post transcription levels. Our findings have important clinical implications because chronic dependence on fatty acids is associated with an accumulation in lipid intermediates, lactate, protons, and reactive oxygen species. This dependence can sensitize the heart to ischemic injury and ventricular dysfunction.” [Note: Phthalates are synthetic odorless plasticizers used as solvents, binders or fixatives in many fragrances. Why are phthalates in the news? Phthalates are considered Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals. On the California Safe Cosmetics Program Product Database: DEP, DIDP, and DBP are reported as fragrance while DEHP and DBP are perfume solvents. IFRA lists DEP and DMP, as “reported fragrance ingredients”.]

Quirce S Cleaning agents and asthma. “Perfumes and scents are components common of many cleaning products. Pine scent containing terpenes can act as a sensitizer, as can limonene, eugenol, and other fragrances. The main sensitizers contained in cleaning products are disinfectants, quaternary ammonium compounds (such as benzalkonium chloride), amine compounds, and fragrances…. Exposure to the ingredients of cleaning products may give rise to both new-onset asthma, with or without a latency period, and work exacerbated asthma. High-level exposure to irritants may induce reactive airways dysfunction syndrome.” “Terpenes can cause secondary emissions due to reactions of the primary exposures with oxidizers present in indoor air. These reactions can release secondary ultrafine particles that may be responsible for respiratory irritation symptoms.” “Exposure to different cleaning compounds, including fragrances, has been reported to cause asthma-like symptoms with no significant changes in lung function. High-level respiratory irritant exposures can induce new onset of asthma with no latency period, namely, reactive airways dysfunction syndrome.” “Most of the cleaning agents associated with asthma like symptoms have harmful irritative and/or sensitizing properties and may be involved in the development of chronic respiratory symptoms. Sensitizers • Amine compounds (eg, monoethanolamine) • Disinfectants (eg, aldehydes) • Quaternary ammonium compounds (eg, benzalkonium chloride) • Scents containing terpenes (eg, pinene, d-limonene), eugenol • Isothiazolinones, formaldehyde (preservatives) • Others: natural rubber latex “ “The main chemical classes of disinfectants are alcohols (eg, ethanol, isopropanol), aldehydes (glutaraldehyde, orthophthalaldehyde), oxidizers (eg, sodium hypochlorite, H2O2), phenolics (phenol, thymol, o-phenylphenol), and quaternary ammonium compounds. Disinfectants have been identified as the most hazardous group of cleaning agents.” [Note: Fragrance does not clean or disinfect, yet many cleaning products are unnecessarily scented.] [Note: Fragrance is considered the new ‘second hand smoke’, “The parallels between second-hand smoke and synthetic fragrance use are many. At its core, both are battles over indoor air quality “ - quote and link from De Vader, Christy L. & Barker, Paxson. Chemicals that cigarettes/cigarette smoke and fragranced products can have in common are: Acetone, Formaldehyde, Benzene, acetaldehyde, terpenoids and phenols.]

Rastogi SC Fragrance chemicals in domestic and occupational products. “Epidemiological studies have described an increasing prevalence of fragrance allergy and indicated an association with hand eczema.” “Fragrances are one of the most common causes of allergic contact dermatitis…approximately 2500 substances are used in fragrances, which may contain from 10 to more than 300 different chemical compounds.”

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