The Truth About Fragrance in Skincare

The Truth About Fragrance in Skincare

By Nicole Phillips, Founder, Dermal Therapist & Nurse

Walk down any skincare aisle and you’ll notice one thing almost immediately—many products smell beautiful.

For some people, that’s part of the skincare experience. But as a dermal therapist and nurse, I’ve also seen how often people with sensitive or reactive skin struggle to find products that leave their skin feeling calm and comfortable.

Over the years, one of the first things I often looked at with clients was whether their skincare contained added fragrance or essential oils. While fragrance isn’t a problem for everyone, it is one of the more common causes of cosmetic-related skin irritation and can be an unnecessary addition for people with sensitive or compromised skin.

What does “fragrance” mean?

On an ingredient list, fragrance may appear as:

• Fragrance
• Parfum
• Aroma

These terms can represent a blend of many different fragrance ingredients. Manufacturers aren’t generally required to list every individual component because fragrance blends are considered proprietary.

What about essential oils?

Many people assume essential oils are automatically gentler because they’re natural.

While they can provide a pleasant scent and offer benefits in some formulations, they can also be irritating for some people—particularly when the skin barrier is already compromised.

Natural doesn’t always mean suitable for every skin type.

Should everyone avoid fragrance?

Not necessarily.

Many people use fragranced skincare without experiencing any problems.

However, if your skin is prone to redness, irritation, sensitivity or you’re trying to repair a damaged skin barrier, choosing fragrance-free skincare may help reduce unnecessary irritation and allow your skin to recover more comfortably.

My philosophy

When I created Celulah, I made the decision to leave added fragrance and essential oils out of every formula.

Not because I believe fragrance is “bad,” but because I believe every ingredient should have a purpose.

Fragrance may create a beautiful sensory experience, but it doesn’t strengthen your skin barrier, improve hydration or help your skin function better.

For me, skincare should focus on supporting healthy skin—not simply smelling beautiful.

My goal has always been to create products that leave your skin feeling calm, comfortable and confident, using ingredients that genuinely contribute to healthier skin.

Healthy skin isn’t about chasing trends or complicated routines.

Sometimes, it’s about removing the unnecessary and giving your skin exactly what it needs to thrive.

— Nicole Phillips
Founder • Dermal Therapist • Nurse