Understanding and Using the IFRA Document
A Practical Guide
Do you use fragrance oils in your candles, soaps, or cosmetics?
Then you’ve probably heard of the IFRA document.
But what exactly is it, and how do you use it to make sure your products are safe and compliant?
Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how it works.
What Is IFRA?
IFRA (International Fragrance Association) is the global organization that regulates the safe use of fragrance ingredients around the world.
It establishes safety standards to protect both consumers and the environment.
In practice, IFRA publishes a Code of Practice and a set of standards that restrict, limit, or prohibit the use of certain fragrance materials depending on the type of product (cream, candle, soap, air freshener, etc.).
What Is an IFRA Certificate?
Every fragrance we offer comes with its own IFRA Certificate.
This official document, issued by the fragrance manufacturer, confirms that the composition of the fragrance complies with IFRA safety standards.
The certificate shows, for each type of product:
- the maximum allowed usage level, and
- the IFRA category (leave-on product, rinse-off product, air freshener, etc.).
Understanding the IFRA Categories
IFRA divides all product types into 12 main categories, each corresponding to a different type of use. For example:
- Category 4: Soaps, shower gels, shampoos (rinse-off products)
- Category 5A: Creams, lotions, deodorants (leave-on products)
- Category 9: Candles, room sprays, reed diffusers
- Category 12: Non-cosmetic products (e.g., scented papers)
To determine if a fragrance is suitable for your project, find the category that matches your product, then check the maximum percentage allowed for that category.
Example
Let’s say you want to make a body lotion with the Cotton Flower fragrance.
- On the IFRA Certificate, look for Category 5A (leave-on products).
Where Can You Find the IFRA Certificate?
At Pino Village, every fragrance is provided with its IFRA Certificate, along with the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). These documents help you create your products in a safe, compliant, and professional way — even for small-scale or handmade production.
Before making any product, always take a moment to check the IFRA Certificate of your fragrance — it’s the best way to create safe, high-quality products that meet international standards.