Why Most "Clean" Fragrances Still Contain Allergens

Clean Doesn’t Always Mean Allergen-Free

“Clean” has become the buzziest phrase in beauty, to the point that consumers are becoming skeptical of the term. And for good reason - the definition of "clean" can run the gamut of excluding a single ingredient like parabens all the way to something with stricter standards.

This is even more the case when it comes to fragrance. But here’s a fact that few brands talk about: most clean and even natural products still contain ingredients known to trigger allergies and skin sensitivities.

The term clean is unregulated. It tends to refer to being free from phthalates, parabens, and other harsh chemicals—but not necessarily from known allergens or skin irritants. This is especially the case with fragrance, which contain fragrance allergens. That means even the most beautifully branded clean scents might still leave your skin reacting.

What Are Fragrance Allergens?

The EU requires companies to label 26 fragrance allergens because they’ve been scientifically shown to cause allergic reactions. These include:

• Limonene (found in citrus oils)

• Linalool (often in lavender)

• Citral (from lemongrass)

• Cinnamal (smells like cinnamon)

• Eugenol (from clove)

In the U.S.? There’s no requirement to list these on a label. They’re usually buried inside the word fragrance. Companies are able to do that because fragrance is considered a trade secret. 

Why "Natural" Isn’t Always Safer

Ironically, many of these allergens actually come from essential oils. This is because many allergens are naturally occurring (if you think about it, foods that people are allergic to are "natural"). For those with eczema or sensitive skin, “natural” can mean itchy, red, or inflamed. And for those with allergies, it could be even worse.

At Havyn, we’ve seen it firsthand: the moms who can’t wear perfume after pregnancy, the kids reacting to lotion, the people searching for a scent that won’t set off a flare-up. That’s why Havyn has committed to a higher standard. 

Havyn's "80 Allergen-Free" Standard

We go beyond the top 26 allergens. Our fragrance formulas exclude over 80 known irritants flagged in the EU and beyond, the disclosure of which the EU is requiring beginning 2026 and beyond. We also:

• Avoid essential oils and ingredients derived from the top 9 food allergens, as these can contain common allergens

• Use innovative techniques to isolate the non-allergenic portion of natural fragrance ingredients (known as "natural isolates") 

• Use clean, non-sensitizing nature-identical aroma molecules

• Conduct clinical-testing with a panel of sensitive skin users

• Conduct home use testing with a panel of eczema-prone users

• Work with dermatologists to review and test our formulas

Our goal? Fine fragrance that everyone - including those with sensitivities - can enjoy, without the reactions.

Clean Beauty Should Be for Everyone

We believe that fragrance should be a joy—not a risk. That’s why Havyn exists: to create luxurious scents that are gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.

We’re not just another clean fragrance brand—we’re building a movement for beauty that’s safe, transparent, and inclusive. And we’re just getting started.

Want to experience the difference?

Try our most loved allergen-free fragrance, Hope and Grace, on preorder now. 

Hope perfume and hand cream
Grace perfume and hand cream