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Last week\u2019s article on Primavera Life products <\/a>brought some concern over their possible\u00a0use of synthetics, namely \u201cfragrance\u201d. Because these products are made in Europe, I assumed they conformed to INCI labeling regulations and their fragrance was from a natural ingredient. INCI ( International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) is an ingredient labeling standard used in Europe and Canada \u2013 more on that in another post. I did check with Primavera on the fragrance issue and was assured that Primavera uses only natural fragrance in their products.<\/p>\n Fragrance is a tricky issue. In INCI standards, the word \u201cfragrance\u201d is used for essential oil and<\/em><\/strong> synthetic fragrance ingredients. Makers of nontoxic cosmetics often add a footnote explaining their fragrance is from essential oils, but not always.<\/p>\n Why the mystery over fragrance? It’s all about protecting a brand\u2019s signature scents. A trade secret loophole allows cosmetic manufacturers to use the term \u201cfragrance\u201d on their ingredient listings so that they can keep their own unique fragrance recipe to themselves.<\/p>\n As for Primavera Life skin care and body care; many products also contain Benzyl Benzoate. This ingredient is a synthetic and used in cosmetics as a fragrance ingredient or, and more likely in this case, a preservative. You can read more on Benzyl Benzoate <\/a>in this informative article by Stephanie Greenwood of Bubble & Bee. My opinion: Primavera Life produces some of the best essential oils on the market. If you are looking to purchase essential oils, you will not be disappointed with the purity of their oils. As for the products containing Benzyl Benzoate \u2013 since it makes up such a small part of the product, it is not the worst. Just know there are healthier alternatives.<\/p>\n
\nSome green beauty experts are fine with a product containing a small amount of Benzyl Benzoate, others not so much. Even though the ingredient is way at the bottom of the ingredient listings for Primavera Life products, it is in there. And there are many good natural preservatives to choose from.<\/p>\n