Is Natural Really Better? Demystifying Synthetic Materials in Perfumery.

So this happened the other day. I stumbled upon an Instagram ad boasting a shampoo with "only natural and real sandalwood." I chuckled to myself, knowing full well that if the shampoo truly contained genuine sandalwood, it would cost a small fortune. So why the obsession with naturals? Why do we place such emphasis on naturals, anyway?

In today's wellness culture, there's an almost romanticized allure surrounding natural ingredients. But the reality is far from idyllic. The ecological impact of harvesting naturals is often overlooked. Take sandalwood, for instance. The demand for this coveted ingredient has led to overharvesting, endangering species and disrupting ecosystems!

So, let me tell you a few things that might make you reconsider searching frantically for a natural only fragrance.

Facing the reality of natural extracts

When we talk about the natural components of a perfume, those are often essential oils (or at least, natural extracts from plants). But let’s face it! From resource-intensive extraction methods like steam distillation to overharvesting of plant species, the toll on our environment is undeniable. Large-scale farming and unsustainable practices further exacerbate the problem, threatening delicate ecosystems and biodiversity.

Naturals also aren't always as benign as they appear. Essential oils, while derived from natural sources, can be potent and harmful to your skin if not used judiciously. For example, a quick google search of “is it safe to use essential oils while pregnant” will list a LOT of unsafe essential oils used in perfumery.

In contrast, synthetic materials undergo rigorous testing and FDA approvals, ensuring their safety and stability in fragrance formulations.

Can you pay the natural price tag?

Cost is another crucial consideration. Natural materials often come with a hefty price tag due to factors such as extraction methods and limited availability. The cost of Oud for example, a very popular fragrance material, can range between $2,000 as high as $25,000 a kilo. This raises questions about accessibility and affordability in the perfume industry.

Do you really want ALL the naturals?

Interestingly, not all natural ingredients are vegan-friendly. Some, like civet oil and ambergris, are derived from animal secretions. Yes, you read that correctly—perfumes can contain secretions from a beaver's anal gland. Suddenly, the allure of naturals seems considerably less appealing. This obviously raises ethical concerns. Musk deers, for example, which is where we get natural musk from, are now near extinct.

Stability and Performance

Contrary to popular belief, synthetics can often outperform naturals in scent. Thanks to advancements in fragrance chemistry, perfumers have access to a vast array of synthetic materials that mimic natural ingredients with remarkable accuracy. These synthetics offer greater consistency and longevity in perfumes, making them a preferred choice for many.

The Verdict: It's Complicated…

So, is natural really better? The answer, as with many things in life, is not black and white. While naturals have their allure, they come with their own set of challenges and ethical considerations. Synthetics, on the other hand, offer reliability, affordability, and versatility.

In the end, the choice between natural and synthetic comes down to personal preference and values. Just remember, when it comes to fragrance, it's not about whether it's natural or synthetic—it's about finding a scent that speaks to you.