Is Fragrance the New Secondhand Smoke? How Scentless Soap May Win
At Bonuderm, we truly believe that what you put on your skin matters not just for you, but for everyone around you. Just ask our founder, who started the company with a scentless soap!
This new topic of secondhand smoke might sound a little surprising to you at first, but think of it like this: many conventional skincare products are full of synthetic chemicals, and when you use them, those ingredients don’t just stay on your body. These chemicals tend to float into the air, rub off on surfaces, on the people closest to you, AND even end up getting into the water when you wash!
You might not be the one using a harsh product, but you can still be affected by it just by being nearby.
We’ve all experienced it: someone walks by with a super strong-smelling lotion or soap, and the scent lingers in the air long after they’re gone. But it’s not just about the smell what we’re breathing in are often artificial fragrances and chemicals that can mess with our hormones, trigger allergies, or irritate sensitive skin.
Just like society eventually realized how harmful secondhand smoke was, we believe it’s time to start paying attention to the invisible effects of what’s in our skincare.
Some of the chemicals used to create fragrance aren’t exactly gentle. In fact, they can include:
- Phthalates, which help the scent last longer but may mess with hormones.
- Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen.
- Synthetic musks, which can build up in our bodies and the environment.
When people compare fragrance to secondhand smoke, they’re not saying it’s identical. The idea is more about how it affects people around you without their consent. Just like breathing in someone else’s cigarette smoke can harm you, being around strong scents especially indoors can impact people who are sensitive to them.
It’s not just about preference. For some, it’s a health issue. They can't simply "get used to it" or ignore it. And because fragrance is so common and unregulated, it’s really hard to avoid.
Who’s affected?
A surprising number of people. One study found that over one-third of Americans experience health problems from fragrances in products. That’s a huge number!
People most affected include:
- Those with asthma or allergies
- People with chemical sensitivities
- Kids and older adults
- Pregnant people
- Anyone with underlying health issues
It’s not just a personal problem - It’s an environmental one
Here’s something most of us don’t think about: fragranced products release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These can pollute the air inside our homes (sometimes more than outdoor pollution!) and even contribute to smog.
Plus, many of these chemicals don’t just disappear. They can end up in our waterways, affecting wildlife and even showing up in human fat tissue. Yikes.
Are we headed toward a Fragrance-Free future?
Just like we eventually realized the dangers of secondhand smoke and created smoke-free spaces, some places are now going fragrance-free especially where health is a priority.
For example:
- Hospitals are asking patients and staff not to wear perfume.
- Some workplaces are setting scent-free policies to support employees with sensitivities.
- A few schools and universities are jumping on board too.
The goal isn’t to shame anyone who wears cologne or loves a good-smelling room spray. It’s about creating spaces where everyone can feel comfortable and safe just like we did with smoke-free zones.
Bonuderm and scentless soap
We’re all about keeping things simple, clean, and safe. Our scentless soap and scented options are made with natural ingredients like plant oils, herbs, and essential oils. There are no hidden chemicals, just gentle goodness for your skin (and your whole household) will thank you for.
And, we’re here to make that choice easy. Every soap we make is a little act of kindness for your skin, your home, and everyone you care about.
We like to say that when you choose Bonuderm, you're not just doing something kind for your own skin you’re creating a healthier space for everyone you live with, too. Kids, pets, roommates, partners they all share your environment. We think you deserve better, and so do the people around you.
Are you ready to turn the page? Scentless soap might help
Fragrances might seem harmless, but for many people, they’re anything but. Just like we learned with secondhand smoke, what smells good to one person might make someone else feel sick. And since we’re all sharing the air, it makes sense to think about how our choices affect others. By being a little more mindful reading labels, making thoughtful product choices, and listening to people when they say, “Hey, this scent is bothering me” we can help create healthier spaces for everyone.
Maybe fragrance isn’t exactly like secondhand smoke, but the comparison sure makes you stop and think. And sometimes, that’s all it takes to start a better conversation.
Sources:
Anne Steinemann, Fragranced Consumer Products Study (2016)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency