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"Clean" and "natural" perfume claims, explained

These words appear on many perfume boxes. Here is what they officially mean, which is less than most people expect.

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They have no official definition

In the US, the FDA has not defined the term "natural" for cosmetics, and there is no regulatory definition of "clean" either. Brands decide what they mean by these words. Labels must still be truthful and not misleading, but the terms themselves set no standard.

What brands may mean

When a brand uses "clean" or "natural", it may be describing its own ingredient list, a list of materials it chooses not to use, or how it sources materials. These definitions differ from brand to brand. The only way to know what a particular brand means is to read the brand's own information. You can then say, "The brand describes this as [claim]," and judge for yourself.

Plant-derived and lab-made materials

Perfumes can use plant-derived materials, lab-made materials, or both. Both kinds are chemicals; everything is. Whether a material comes from a plant or a lab does not, by itself, tell you how your skin will respond to it.

How fragrance appears on US labels

Under US rules, the fragrance blend can be listed simply as "Fragrance". The individual materials inside it do not have to be named. A 2022 law (MoCRA) directs the FDA to require labeling of fragrance allergens, but that rule has not yet been issued.

How fragrance appears on EU labels

In the EU, the blend is listed as "parfum". Certain fragrance allergens must also be named on the label above set levels. An update to EU rules expanded that list for products placed on the market from 31 July 2026.

If you know you react to a fragrance ingredient, check the ingredient list on the label. In the EU, certain fragrance allergens must be declared on the label above set levels. Many brands also follow IFRA standards; check the brand's own information.

Table comparing how fragrance is labeled in the US and the EU

Questions worth asking a brand

  • What does this word mean for your products?
  • Which materials do you choose not to use?
  • Do you list fragrance ingredients individually?
  • Do you follow IFRA standards?

FAQ

The label alone cannot tell you that. Fragrances can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Patch test a new fragrance on a small area of skin, and stop using it if irritation occurs. See a doctor or dermatologist if a reaction does not go away.
These are also marketing terms without a single official definition. Read the ingredient list.
The International Fragrance Association, an industry body that publishes safety Standards for fragrance materials.

General information, not medical advice. Patch test new fragrances and stop use if irritation occurs. See a doctor about skin reactions or breathing concerns.

Sensitive to fragrance?

Practical steps, without the guesswork.

Read fragrance sensitivities
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