So, What Is IFRA?
IFRA stands for the International Fragrance Association, the body that sets global safety standards for fragrance ingredients. That includes ingredients used in personal care, cosmetics, cleaning products – and yes, home fragrance.
They work alongside RIFM (the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials), a scientific organisation that reviews new data on fragrance materials. Based on this research, IFRA updates its standards to reflect what’s considered safe to use and at what levels.
While not technically law, IFRA compliance is expected across the industry, and many UK and EU regulations are built around these standards. If you're selling products with fragrance, IFRA is something you need to keep an eye on.
What Changed in IFRA 51?
Released in 2023, IFRA 51 introduced some important updates:
New restrictions and bans on certain fragrance ingredients
Lower usage limits across multiple product categories
Stricter limits for products with high or repeated exposure, like diffusers and sprays
Put simply: IFRA 51 is one of the most impactful updates in years – especially for home fragrance.
Why Are Diffusers Suddenly Non Compliant?
We hear this question a lot:
“Why was this fragrance fine in my diffuser last month, but now it’s not?”
The short answer? IFRA updated the science.
New studies may show that an ingredient once considered safe could pose risks over time – whether through inhalation, skin contact, or repeated use. In response, IFRA lowers the allowable levels for that ingredient. So, even if your formula hasn’t changed, the rules around it might have.
This matters most for products like diffusers and room sprays, where:
Fragrance is released into the air and inhaled
Mist or residue may land on skin or surfaces
Exposure is more frequent and long-lasting
Why Are Home Fragrance Products Restricted At All?
You might be thinking: “I’m not putting this on my skin, so why the limits?”
It’s a fair question! But IFRA looks at total exposure, not just skin contact. Here's why home fragrance is included:
Inhalation – fragrance particles are breathed in
Surface contact – diffusers and sprays can land on furniture or skin
Daily use – these products often run for hours every day
Cumulative effect – we use lots of fragranced products in daily life (e.g. lotions, candles, sprays, perfumes)
All of this adds up – and IFRA makes sure that even with combined use, the levels remain safe.
Ingredients Affected by IFRA 51
Several common fragrance ingredients were re-evaluated and are further restricted under IFRA 51. Here are some of the key ones:
Eugenol – spicy, clove-like scent; a known allergen
Geraniol – in rose and citronella oils; can oxidise and cause irritation
Methyl Eugenol – found naturally in fragrance ingredients like cinnamon leaf oil, clove leaf oil; has carcinogenic classification
Hydroxycitronellal – fresh and floral; now limited due to allergenic potential
Estragole – found naturally in fragrance ingredients like anise and basil’ has carcinogenic classification
Note: Many of these ingredients occur naturally in essential oils. That means even all-natural blends need to be reviewed for compliance.
Why Should Makers Care About IFRA?
Following IFRA might feel like just another rule to follow – but it's actually a smart move for any serious maker. Here's why:
It protects your customers
You want people to enjoy your products safely.
It protects your business
Non-compliant products can lead to complaints, recalls, or even legal issues.
It helps you grow
Retailers, marketplaces, and overseas buyers expect IFRA compliance.
It builds trust
Transparency and responsibility go a long way in today's market.
Final Thoughts
Yes, IFRA 51 has made things a little more complicated. It’s never fun when a favourite fragrance suddenly needs reformulating. But ultimately, the goal is to create safer products that your customers can enjoy without risk.
Important Dates for IFRA 51 Compliance
When IFRA 51 was officially published, it came with two key compliance deadlines for products containing restricted ingredients:
For new products placed on the market: Compliance with IFRA 51 was required from 30th of March 2024. This means any newly launched or reformulated products after this date should comply with the updated standards.
For existing products already on the market: You have until 30th of October 2025 to bring all existing formulas into compliance. This is the final deadline for removing, reformulating, or replacing non-compliant fragrances in products already being sold.