Perfume: Deciphering natural and synthetic ingredients
With the rise of organic products, consumers are taking a more mindful look at ingredients and components. Chemical products now arouse consumer distrust. Thus, the term «chemistry» is often associated with the enemy, while natural products are perceived as a guarantee of health.
In perfumery, the debate centers on natural versus synthetic ingredients.
But does «synthetic» necessarily mean «dangerous»? Does «natural” equate to «safe»? In this article, we reveal all!
Differences between natural and synthetic ingredients
In perfumery, a multitude of natural ingredients such as flowers, seeds, wood, and beans are used. Generally, these components are extracted from their natural source to be incorporated into perfumes, without undergoing chemical transformation.
However, extraction does not apply to every ingredient used in perfumery. Certain flowers, known as «mute» flowers, such as lily of the valley, violet, or carnation, are fragile and odorless after extraction, thus encouraging perfumers to recreate their scents using synthetic raw materials.
The advent of synthetic molecules
It was in the mid-19th century that synthetic molecules made their appearance alongside organic chemistry. This discovery enabled perfumers to expand their palettes and renew themselves. Synthetic ingredients enabled them to create and offer even more fragrances with surprising olfactory dimensions.
Furthermore, animal protection led to the ban of these notes in perfumes. As a result, synthetic chemistry has provided perfumers with an alternative to recreate scents such as musk, civet or castoreum. These animalic notes are essential for creating a fragrance with character, sensuality and a long-lasting scent.
A commitment to naturalness at Studio des Parfums
Since 2006, our commitment to environmental protection has been reflected in our products, which are made from more than 60% natural ingredients and are free of dyes and preservatives.
If you'd like to find out more about the world of perfumery and our perfume organ, book now here.
