how to identify if the fragrance in shampoo comes from synthetic fragrance oils or natural sources:

1. Check the Ingredient List

• Look for key terms:
  • Natural fragrance sources: If the fragrance is natural, the ingredient list may include terms like “Essential Oil” or plant extracts (e.g., “Lavender Extract,” “Citrus Oil”).
  • Synthetic fragrance: Usually labeled as “Fragrance,” “Parfum,” or simply “Aroma,” without specifying the source.
• Simpler ingredient lists: Shampoos with natural fragrances often have fewer ingredients, while those with synthetic fragrances tend to have longer, more complex lists.

2. Smell the Fragrance

• Synthetic fragrance:
  • The scent tends to be very strong, overly sweet, or artificial.
  • It lasts for a long time, sometimes staying on the hair for an entire day or more.
• Natural fragrance:
  • The scent is softer, more natural, and may carry a hint of raw plant notes.
  • It fades more quickly, often within a few hours.

3. Test for Allergic Reactions

• Natural fragrance: Generally gentler on the skin and more tolerable for sensitive individuals.
• Synthetic fragrance: If the product causes itching, redness, or irritation, synthetic fragrance might be the culprit. Conduct a patch test on a small area of your skin, like behind the ear or on the inside of your wrist, to check for reactions.

4. Brand Messaging and Positioning

• Brands that focus on natural ingredients often explicitly label their products as “Free of Synthetic Fragrance” or “Naturally Scented.” They may also specify the source of the fragrance on the packaging or marketing materials.
• Products that highlight claims like “Long-Lasting Fragrance” or “Intense Scent” are more likely to rely on synthetic fragrance.

5. Price Differences

• Natural essential oils are more expensive, so shampoos with natural fragrances tend to be priced higher.
• Shampoos with synthetic fragrance are often cheaper but have more intense and longer-lasting scents.

6. Try Unscented Products

• If you’re unsure whether a fragrance is safe, opt for products labeled “Fragrance-Free” or “Unscented” to avoid synthetic fragrance entirely.

7. Use Ingredient-Checking Tools

• Some apps, like INCI Decoder or CosDNA, allow you to scan ingredient lists and identify whether the product contains synthetic fragrances or other potentially harmful chemicals.

Summary

The easiest way to determine whether a shampoo’s fragrance is synthetic is to carefully read the ingredient list and consider the scent’s characteristics. If you’re concerned about synthetic fragrances, prioritize products that explicitly state they use natural essential oils or plant-based extracts.