- What it can be used for
- Adds scent (the functions the EU ingredient database, CosIng, lists for it; a product may use it for any of them)
Why it’s flagged
Used to add scent: its official function is perfuming or fragrance.
- Listed functions: fragrance. Source: EU CosIng ingredient database
The EU ingredient database (CosIng) lists this ingredient's function as perfuming or fragrance, so it may be there to add scent, even on a label that never says “fragrance.”
What the research says
- Rose ketones are a real but uncommon allergen: 0.5% of 1606 consecutive European patch-test patients reacted to a 0.2% damascone mixture, and none of 202 Japanese dermatitis patients reacted at 2%. Strong evidence. Lalko 2007 (RIFM) Industry-funded
- The industry's permitted levels for rose ketones (up to 0.07-0.8% depending on product type) overlap the concentrations at which already-sensitized volunteers reacted (0.05-0.1%), because the risk assessment is designed to prevent new allergies rather than to protect people who already have one. Moderate evidence. Lalko 2007 (RIFM) Industry-funded
Each finding shows its evidence grade. See every graded fact or how we grade.
Don’t want it on you or in your air? Look for “fragrance-free,” not “unscented.” An unscented product can still contain a masking fragrance. Why the words matter.
What this page can’t tell you
These lists describe what a substance can do, its hazard. The risk from one product depends on how much is in it and how you use it, and the label doesn’t say how much.
Not being on a list doesn’t make an ingredient safe. It may never have been assessed.
“Fragrance” or “parfum” on a label can hide this ingredient and many others. In the US, the individual chemicals in a fragrance are rarely named on the label.
Check your products
Check a whole labelProducts that list itEWG Skin DeepShop fragrance-free
“Products that list it” opens Open Beauty Facts, a free database anyone can edit.
Flagged the same way
Official lists checked September 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.