IFRA bases its decisions on independent scientific risk assessment, primarily conducted through its affiliated research institute, evaluating how a fragrance ingredient behaves on skin and in the body, including potential for sensitisation, phototoxicity, or other health effects, before issuing a standard that either restricts the maximum safe concentration or, in more serious cases, prohibits its use entirely.

The process behind a restriction or ban

As explained in our related answer on what IFRA is and why it matters to perfume safety, the organisation relies on toxicology, dermatology, and other relevant scientific research to assess each material. If evidence shows an ingredient can cause meaningful skin irritation, allergic reaction, or other health concerns above a certain concentration, IFRA sets a maximum usage limit calibrated to keep the risk acceptably low for the general population, factoring in things like how the product is typically used and how much skin contact is involved.

In rarer cases, where no safe concentration can be reasonably established, or where a material poses risks that can’t be adequately managed through dosage limits, IFRA issues an outright ban. These standards are updated periodically as new research emerges, which is why perfume formulas sometimes change even for long-established, well-loved fragrances. Our how perfume is made guide covers this properly, and the complete guide to perfume has the wider regulatory picture.