Does Cosrx Sunscreen Have Fragrance? 

Cosrx

There are two variants of Cosrx Sunscreens – the Vitamin E Vitalizing Sunscreen SPF 50+, and Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+/ PA+++. Both of them contain fragrances or added parfum.

What ingredients are in Cosrx Sunscreen? 

Fragrance in cosmetic and skin care products is not regulated. So when the fragrance is mentioned in the ingredient list, it is just a generic, cover-all term for many chemical compounds and ingredients that form that fragrance. 

There could also be extracts from plants and essential oils in the fragrance composition. Since such companies are not required to disclose their fragrance ingredient list, we cannot know what ingredients are found in it. 

But, there are other fragrance-imparting ingredients that are found in both sunscreens. The signature scent that they impart and the pros and cons of these ingredients can be explored. Keep in mind that these don’t fall within the purview of fragrance, but add aromas in any case.

These include : 

  • Benzyl Salicylate  

This fragrance compound is mainly added as a solvent, preservative, and UV light absorber. But it also imparts a very delicate floral, sweet vanilla fragrance that is also slightly camphoraceous. 

  • Limonene

This terpene oil is extracted from citrus peels. So it obviously has a zesty, lemony fragrance. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which make it perfect for use in the harsh sun. 

  • Hexyl Cinnamal 

This common cosmetic fragrance ingredient gives the sunscreen faint jasmine or tuberose-like musk. 

  • Linalool

This chemical compound has antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It also has a citrusy, slightly spicy, and sweet aroma. 

  • Benzyl Alcohol 

An antibacterial ingredient with a floral and fruity scent. 

  • Geraniol 

Another essential oil extract from geranium and rose oil which protects the skin from external environmental damage. It has a rosy, fairly waxy scent. 

  • Citronellal, Citral 

Both floral and citrusy fragrance ingredients also have insect-repellent properties. 

  • Benzyl benzoate 

This compound is a preservative and it regulates the viscosity of the sunscreen. It has a warm, balsamic and medicinal scent that faintly comes through. 

Are the fragrance ingredients in Cosrx Sunscreen safe for the body? Are there side effects? 

Fragrances used in cosmetics products like Cosrx Sunscreen aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States. But, they are still required to meet the requirements for safety as any other topical product. 

Companies don’t have to publicize the ingredients of the fragrance as they are classified as trade secrets or proprietary blends. 

Most fragrances work for most people’s skin. But there are some potential side effects from generic fragrances that you should watch out for: 

Skin irritation

Fragrance ingredients may include extracts or essential oils that irritate the skin. Contact dermatitis from synthetic chemical compounds or natural extracts is a real possibility. 

In case of rashes, redness, hives, and inflammation, discontinue use until you consult a dermatologist. You may also have allergies to a particular undisclosed ingredient in the fragrance. 

Scratchy throat and nasal irritation

If the fragrance composition contains essential oils, it will probably cause mucous membrane irritation. A stuffy nose, breathing problems, and a scratchy throat may result. 

Even artificial ingredients may cause coughing, wheezing, and sneezing if you have any allergies. 

Watering of eyes 

Generally, fragrances have a mild adverse effect on the eyes. If the ocular tolerance of the fragrance is fairly high, then it won’t affect you. But, subject to certain compounds being present, exposure can lead to redness, itching, and watering. 

Neurological disorders

The Cosrx sunscreen fragrances may contain phthalates since they have not been labeled phthalate-free. Phthalates have been linked to a number of adverse health impacts. 

These include neurological disorders, asthma, and lifestyle diseases such as obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. 

The other ingredients with a primary functionality and secondary scent or masking scent may also have some side effects. 

Benzyl benzoate in the concentrations used is unlikely to cause issues unless you are on medicines that have drug interactions or you are allergic. In either of these cases, you may notice scabbing, dryness, and blisters on the skin. It also causes nasal and ocular irritation. 

Citronellal and Citral can cause minor skin irritation. But it isn’t dangerous unless ingested or inhaled in large quantities, the latter of which can even cause lung damage. The same side effects are present with hexyl cinnamal. 

The rest of the secondary scent ingredients are fairly safe and non-sensitizing. 

Are there fragrance-free Cosrx Sunscreen varieties? 

As of the moment, there are no fragrance-free varieties of Cosrx Sunscreen. And even if the generic fragrance component is removed, the other secondary scents may remain.  

References: 

  1. https://www.cosrx.com/collections/sun-care
  2. https://www.cosrx.com/collections/sun-care/products/aloe-soothing-sun-cream-spf50-pa
Anand Srinivasan
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