If you have a fragrance allergy, suffer from skin issues (rosacea, dry skin, eczema, irritation, you name it) — or perhaps you're just leery of added chemicals, or prefer not to smell like you bathed in piña colada — then you probably opt for fragrance-free or unscented products. But did you know that there is actually a huge difference between the two? And that most products that are good for those with sensitive skin may have a hint of odor? "'Fragrance-free' means no fragrance is added," explains dermatologist Doris Day, MD. Some of the ingredients in the formula — like an oil or an extract — may smell, but there are no extraneous scents in the mix.
Unscented products, on the other hand, may have a fragrance added to make them absent of smell or to mask an unpleasant scent. "Unscented products are not without fragrance," says dermatologist Jeannette Graf, MD. "They may contain a small amount of fragrance to diminish the fragrance of certain materials and therefore neutralize them."
So, it's important to be wary of products that have no scent at all or are labeled as "unscented," as they may in fact include exactly what you are trying to avoid — even without the headache-inducing fruit-bomb aroma. To make your next product haul a little easier, we've rounded up the 10 best fragrance-free (not unscented) picks out there — and, luckily, you can find most of them at your local drugstore.
Dr. Day is a big fan of Aveeno products and often recommends them to her clients. This bargain foaming cleanser is great for those who are prone to irritation because of feverfew extract, which is a soothing cousin of chamomile. And not only is it fragrance-free, it's soap-free too. Meaning: It's made without any drying alkaline ingredients.
Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser, $6.79, available at Drugstore.com.
Dr. Graf is partial to Avène products. For fragrance-free cleansing and makeup removal, she recommends this gentle oil. And for eyes, she loves the Avène Soothing Eye Contour Cream.
Avène XeraCalm AD Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil, $30, available at Lovely Skin.
This body wash is made of moisturizing jojoba oil, refreshing grapefruit extract, and alpha-hydroxy acids, and has a subtle yet refreshing odor — but absolutely no added artificial fragrances.
Desert Essence Fragrance Free Body Wash, $8.99, available at Drugstore.com.
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Loaded with lightweight oils like jojoba and macadamia, plus antioxidant-packed extracts like peony root and cucumber, this serum will hydrate even the flakiest of skin and transform it into baby-smooth goodness.
Sure, the price is steep. But if you have a sensitive scalp or are prone to itchiness, using a fragrance-free mask that won't exacerbate any issues may be worth a little extra cash. Plus, unlike some hair masks, this is not just a glorified conditioner that will soften your hair, but a powerful vegetable-protein formula that will repair damaged strands with a few uses.
David Mallett Mask No. 1 L'Hydratation, $75, available at Shen Beauty.
Jason has been making natural, fragrance-free products since long before they were even a thing — and there's a reason the brand has stuck around for so long (since 1959, to be exact). Its products, like this conditioner (and there's a shampoo, too), are made with quality ingredients like sunflower-seed oil, vitamin B5, chamomile, and sage-leaf extract.
Jason Pure Natural Daily Conditioner, $7.31, available at iHerb.
Dr. Day recommends Neutrogena products to those looking to go fragrance-free, which is a path she suggests to all her clients. "I prefer products that are fragrance-free in general," she says. "If you want a fragrance, wear perfume... However, people [with rosacea or sensitive skin] should especially avoid fragrance in skin care."
This light sesame body oil is a great alternative to heavier lotions. Smooth it on your still damp bod right after you bathe (we recommend leaving it on your shower rack), and it will absorb seamlessly into your skin, resulting in a super-smooth situation.
Neutrogena Body Oil, $8.39, available at Drugstore.com.
If you're willing to spend a little more on your sunscreen (we know you know the importance of SPF), try this new mineral-based lotion — it's sensitive enough for your precious skin (and for kids!). But what's really crazy is Shiseido's WetForce technology — it doesn't just make the formula waterproof, but actually goes into overdrive when your skin is wet or sweaty. Wha?
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion WetForce SPF 50+ for Sensitive Skin & Children, $42, available at Bergdorf Goodman.
This drugstore moisturizer is a derm favorite and can compete with some of the big "anti-aging" guns that retail for hundreds more. Oh yeah, it's fragrance-free too.
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Fragrance-Free Moisturizer, $23.99, available at Walgreens.
"The fragrance-free wipes I like are the Klorane makeup-remover biodegradable wipes with soothing cornflower," says Dr. Graf. You will find them in the bag of many a beauty editor as well.
Klorane Make-Up Remover Biodegradable Wipes with Soothing Cornflower, $13, available at Sephora.
Yes To is another great brand that offers fragrance-free products at a good price point. This daily cleanser — made with carrots, essential oils, and exfoliating ground bamboo — is gentle enough for those with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies.
Yes To Fragrance Free Exfoliating Cleanser, $9.99, available at Yes To.
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