“Fragrance” or “parfum” on an INCI list is a single word that can legally contain dozens of undisclosed components (protected as trade secrets under labelling rules).
The honest position: fragrance makes products pleasant and is fine for most people. It’s also the most common cause of cosmetic contact reactions. If your skin is reactive, eczema-prone, or your barrier is damaged, fragrance-free is the safe default, and “unscented” isn’t the same thing (unscented products can contain masking fragrance).
Essential oils are fragrance too. “Fragrance-free, scented with lavender oil” is a contradiction wearing a wellness outfit.
The BYOUT Library is educational content, not personalised medical advice. For persistent or severe skin concerns, a dermatologist beats any article, including ours.