Hong Kong's Consumer Council tested 40 perfume products and found 10 types of fragrance allergens in perfumes from Gucci and Bvlgari, which could worsen skin conditions for eczema patients. The watchdog warned that excessive fragrance chemicals may lead to a 'cocktail effect', increasing health risks.
Hong Kong's Consumer Council announced on Monday the results of tests on 40 perfume products, finding that the Italian fashion brand Gucci's “The Alchemist’s Garden Tears from the Moon Eau de Parfum” contains 10 types of fragrance allergens. The product costs HK$2,850 (US$365) per 100ml (3.4-ounce) bottle, the most expensive option examined.
Two other products containing 10 types of allergens are “Allegra Passeggiata” by Bvlgari Parfums, priced at HK$2,260 per bottle, and “Colonia Eau Cologne” by Acqua di Parma, which costs HK$997 per bottle.
The watchdog said that perfumes with too many fragrance chemicals could lead to a “cocktail effect”, which might significantly increase health risks. “For people with eczema, exposure to perfumes containing allergens may worsen skin conditions,” the council said in its report.
“Women planning to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and families with infants or young children should use such products with caution,” it added.
Each of the three luxury products received a rating of two out of five in the fragrance allergens category from the consumer watchdog. Most higher-rated products contained fewer allergens.
The tests covered various brands, including Bvlgari Parfums, Acqua di Parma, and Gucci, to assess potential health impacts.
