The Truth About Fragrance in Skincare

The Truth About Fragrance in Skincare

When people see the word fragrance on a product label, many immediately back away. And honestly, that’s understandable—most commercial fragrances have a reputation for being filled with things no one wants on their skin: phthalates, sulfates, hormone disruptors, even neurotoxins and carcinogens. The good news? Not all fragrances are created equal.

At Clover Body & Bath, fragrance isn’t an afterthought. It’s part of the experience we create in products like our creams, salves, facial creams, soaps, and more. Every fragrance oil we formulate with comes with IFRA (International Fragrance Association) documentation that outlines safe usage levels across different product types—whether it’s a lotion, a soap, or even a lip balm. That means we don’t just measure by a “one-size-fits-all” percentage. We respect each fragrance’s unique limits, to ensure safety always comes first.

Fragrance in skincare isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people prefer unscented products, preferring the simplicity and purity they offer. Others love the aroma of essential oils, which provide natural, earthy scents. And for scents that are more complex, playful, or gourmand—like our Vinyls & Velvet, Cocoa Butter Cashmere, or Banana Puddin'—high-quality fragrance oils allow us to create enjoyable, memorable sensory experiences while keeping safety and skin-friendliness front and center.

At Clover Body & Bath, we draw a hard line when it comes to fragrance safety. You will never find phthalates, sulfates, parabens, carcinogens, hormone disruptors, or neurotoxins in the fragrances we formulate with. Every fragrance oil we use is vetted against strict safety standards, backed by IFRA guidelines, and selected not only for its scent but also for its compatibility with skin.

Responsible fragrance usage is about more than just avoiding harmful ingredients. It’s about understanding potency, respecting usage limits, and choosing blends that elevate the formula without overpowering it. When done thoughtfully, fragrance can enhance your skincare routine without ever compromising your skin’s health.

We believe fragrance should be a safe, enjoyable part of your body, bath, and skincare experience—not something to fear.

Back to blog