Body · Cleansing · Sub-chapter 03
Fragrance is the most common ingredient people point to when a cleanser stops feeling comfortable. Here's how to read a label, understand the alternatives, and find a routine that feels gentler.
87 how-to's · Updated 2 May 2026 · Avg. 4 min per piece · Edited by Nelly · Beauty & Style Director
Editorial, not medical advice. This is general body cleansing guidance from our editors, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. If you have a skin concern, speak with a licensed dermatologist or doctor.
What 'fragrance-free' means on a label
'Fragrance-free' means no added fragrance ingredients. 'Unscented' means the product may still contain masking fragrances. These two terms are not interchangeable. If you're looking for formulas with fewer fragrance-derived ingredients, 'fragrance-free' on the label is the more reliable signal, but reading the INCI list is the only way to be certain.
Label guide — common fragrance-related ingredients
- Parfum / Fragrance: Umbrella term covering many individual compounds. Present = contains added fragrance.
- Linalool / Limonene / Geraniol / Citronellol: Individual fragrance compounds listed separately under EU regulation.
- Essential oils (lavender, eucalyptus, citrus): Naturally derived but still contain fragrance compounds.
- Fragrance-free / Parfum-free: What to look for on pack front.
- Unscented: May still contain masking fragrance — read the INCI list.