Essential oils are only essential for your nose, not your skin. They are one of the two
groups of ingredients almost universally added to cosmetics (the other being preservatives)
that are often the culprits when our skin becomes irritated or sensitized by a cosmetic
product. An article in the January 24, 2000, issue of The Rose Sheet discussed an advisory
report issued by the Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products and Non-Food Products,
a European Commission agency. The report stated that “Information regarding fragrance
chemicals used in cosmetic products that have the potential to cause allergic reactions should
be provided to consumers.” According to the article, “It is seen that a significant increase
in fragrance allergy has occurred and that fragrance allergy is the most common cause of
contact allergy.…”