What is an IFRA Document and Why is it Important?

An IFRA document, created alongside IFRA standards, regulates the boundaries of fragrance creation. This document provides an overview of all the ingredients used to create a specific fragrance mixture and outlines the safe usage levels of fragrances in products.

For any product creator, knowing how to read and use an IFRA document is essential. Each document is unique to its specific fragrance, so we recommend organising all your documentation in a labeled folder for easy reference.

Understanding Each Section of Your IFRA Document

For example purposes, we will use our Winter Fae fragrance for reference.

ISSUE DATE & VERSION

Page 1

• Issue date: 01/08/2024
• Version: 2 (23/07/2023)

This data confirms the date the IFRA document was issued to the supplier by the manufacturer. The version will appear as a number and a date, which will increment as updates are made.

CERTIFYING PARTY

The certifying party is the supplier from where the fragrance oil has been purchased; in this case, Imperial Supply Ltd.

• Scope of the Certificate: Winter Fae Fragrance

Imperial Supply Ltd
Common Lane
Kenilworth
CV8 2EL

CERTIFICATE DELIVERED TO:
IMPERIAL ESSENCES LTD

COMPULSORY INFORMATION

This section includes all information regarding potential amendments to the document, along with the date the new data will take effect. You will also find a full table of categories that provides you with the maximum percentages allowed for each product variation under the IFRA guidelines for the UK. Be sure to pay attention to the relevant data, as maximum usage levels vary per fragrance oil.

Terms:

• Not Limited: This means that the fragrance oil does not have a percentage limit. We recommend using a standard percentage and conducting tests if you are unsure.
• Not Approved: This means that the fragrance has not been tested with that particular product category and should not be used for making those products.

EU Cosmetic Information

This section is important if you intend to sell your products outside of the UK. It sets out a separate maximum usage level for the products stated, as the usage levels for EU countries may be slightly different. Always check both the UK and EU tables and use the lower percentage to comply with regulations.

Annex 1

Here you will find detailed information on which products fall under each category, helping you determine the correct percentage of fragrance oil for your product.

For example, candles of all types fall under IFRA Category 12. Referencing back to the compulsory information for the Millionaire fragrance, the maximum percentage usage is Not Limited. You would then approximate a normal percentage for candles and use a percentage that performs well for the particular candle you're making. Testing is key.

While it may appear complex, once you understand each section and how to use it with your fragrances, it becomes straightforward and easy to follow.

Be sure to check our blog for more advice on getting your business up and running, plus step-by-step guides on making candles and other home fragrance products.

Happy Reading!