PHLUR – "Fragrance Designed for Skin"

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As I continue my journey into a cleaner lifestyle, I knew it was time for me to begin switching out a number of products I use regularly that contain hidden, toxic, mysterious, yet captivating fragrances, i.e. liquid fabric softener, dryer sheets, air fresheners, scented candles, and perfumes just to name a few. Pretty much every household or cosmetic product we use on a daily basis has some type of fragrance in it.

Have you ever walked through a mall only to be hit with the smell of a strong cologne or perfume? The scent is so overwhelming that, at first, you might be drawn to it, then suddenly start to sneeze. How many of us receive ads in the mail from department stores filled with smelly samples of the latest fragrances they are promoting. And, how about those exotic, provocative fragrance commercials on TV…makes you want to go out and buy that product, right?

Again, since fragrances are found in just about every product we use, I decided to do a little more research about what is actually in fragrances. But first a little side story on the origins of perfume. What I found is quite interesting.

A Very Brief History on the Origins of Perfume

The use of perfume goes as far back as 2000 BC when the Egyptians used it as part of their burial rituals. There are differing opinions on when perfume with essential oils and alcohol were first introduced. It appears that the Hungarians may have created the first actual perfume made of essential oils blended with alcohol, as a gift to Queen Elizabeth of Hungary in 1370. Perfume during that period of time was used only by the very rich and they used it primarily to cover bodily smells. If you are interested in more information about perfume and its origins, check out more here

When Beautycounter talks about the need for stronger regulations in the cosmetics and skincare industry, they are also including the fragrances that are used in cosmetics and skincare. What draws most of us to try something is the fragrance contained within a product. Unfortunately, fragrances can be full of dangerous or toxic chemicals – or contain mystery ingredients you can't discover. As with cosmetics and skincare the FDA does not have the authority to require fragrances disclose their ingredients so as to protect the company’s fragrance trade secrets. In the meantime, we are exposed to toxic chemicals that have direct links to reproduction, cancer and other health risks.

According to the website Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, FDA defines fragrance as “…a combination of chemicals that gives each perfume its distinct scent…ingredients may be derived from petroleum or natural raw materials.” Even the “natural raw materials” can include solvents, preservatives or dyes. Try looking at the ingredients on a fragrance bottle. You will never see a complete listing of what it contains. To be an informed consumer is be very wary of any label that simply refers to an ingredient as “fragrance.”

The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) websites notes that there are over 3,059 materials currently being used in fragrance, some which have been linked to health issues including cancer, reproduction issues, and allergies. They even conducted a study in 2016 to research the health effects from fragrance. This study found that 99.1% of participants when exposed at least once a week from their own use, from other’s individuals use reported negative health issues. Some of those health complaints included migraines, asthma, stomach issues and even cardiovascular problems. The study went on to further include that, “…a high percentage of participants did not know of the chemicals included in fragrance and would not continue to use a fragranced product if they knew it emitted pollutants.”

At Last - A Cleaner Fragrance You Can Trust

So where do you go for cleaner personal use fragrances? I found a great new company called “PHLUR – Fragrance designed for skin.” They offer a variety of products from fragrances, body care and even candles!

Their fragrances are free of parabens, BHT and other toxic chemicals. In addition, they are cruelty free, vegan and are sustainably sourced. PHLUR also includes a complete ingredient list on their website for full transparency.

PHLUR has a “Try at Home” offer where you can choose three scents from their list of eight for only $18.00. What a great value for your money. I decided to try HANAMI, AMÉLINE and SANDARA.

HANAMI – “Our most minimalist scent, for when less is more.” Notes include: fig, white florals, hazelnut, sandalwood.

AMÉLINE – “a clever new concept of a rose…top notes of Italian bergamot…pink pepper…hits of patchouli and sandalwood.”

SANDARA – “Calming and meditative, a spiritual journey inspired by a retreat into nature…most of all is a reflection of you.” Notes include: forest air, violet leaves, timur pepper, sandalwood, oak moss.

I loved all three scents but I was particularly drawn to HANAMI for my everyday scent. It is not overwhelming or overpowering. Only when someone hugs me will they take in this amazing scent. I plan on purchasing all eight scents very soon.

I highly recommend trying PHLUR. Be sure to take them up on their special offer to try three of their scents today!

PHLUR is on the cutting edge and has introduced all of us to a new line of fragrances “…without compromise.”

For more information about PHLUR check out their website: here.

And, for more information about the hidden chemicals in perfumes and cologne, check out the link to an article on the EWG site – “Not so Sexy – hidden chemicals in perfume and cologne.”