Step inside The Remedy and the first thing you’ll notice is the scent. It’s calming, grounding, and completely natural. That’s the magic of essential oils – but it’s also a conversation worth having. Because not all fragrance is created equal, and what you choose to breathe in (or put on your skin) really does matter.
In this blog post, we'll explain the difference between natural and synthetic fragrance, and why it’s more than just a sensory preference...
The Problem with Synthetic Fragrance
Synthetic fragrance is used in everything from candles and perfumes to skincare and cleaning products. Often listed simply as “fragrance” or “parfum,” it can contain hundreds of chemical compounds, many of which don’t legally need to be disclosed. This can include phthalates, known endocrine disruptors, and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that contribute to indoor air pollution.
When burned, synthetic fragrances can release harmful substances into the air, affecting both your health and the environment. For anyone prone to headaches, skin irritation, or hormone imbalance, synthetic scents are often an invisible trigger...
Why We Love Essential Oils
Essential oils are derived from plants through distillation or cold pressing. They’re not just beautiful to smell, many have therapeutic benefits that support wellbeing. For example, lavender can help calm the nervous system, eucalyptus can help you breathe more deeply, and rosemary can clear mental fog.
When used in diffusers or candles, essential oils offer a cleaner way to scent your home. They don’t emit harmful chemicals and can actively support mood and mind. This is why we’ll always choose essential oils over synthetic fragrance in anything we burn.
The Skincare Conversation
In skincare, it’s more complex. Essential oils can be classed as allergens depending on the oil, the concentration, and your skin type. Many apps like Yuka will flag them with orange or red warnings, but this doesn't mean they’re unsafe – it simply means they need to be used with care.
Some of the most beautiful skincare brands we stock at The Remedy use low concentrations of essential oils to support skin function and create a sensory ritual. Others are taking an innovative route, like blending nature-identical synthetic molecules (which mimic essential oils without the environmental footprint) with real botanicals. This hybrid approach is gentler on both the skin and the planet.
Is It Sustainable?
This is something we ask ourselves too. It takes an enormous amount of plant material, water, and energy to produce even a small vial of essential oil. Some oils require hundreds of petals or kilos of plant matter per batch. So while essential oils are natural, they’re not always sustainable.
This is where modern natural formulation is evolving. Some conscious brands are creating safer synthetic fragrance blends (still free from harmful compounds) that replicate the molecular structure of essential oils without the agricultural strain. For many, this is a step towards eco-friendly beauty that still smells and feels incredible.
Becoming a Conscious Consumer
Once your nose becomes attuned to essential oils, you can almost always tell the difference. Synthetic scents often feel overpowering or artificial. Real oils feel light, layered and connected to the earth. That’s why it always smells so good in The Remedy.
We know ingredients matter. We’re transparent about what’s inside everything we stock, and we always welcome your questions. Whether you're navigating allergies, pregnancy-safe products, or want to understand which ingredients are your own non-negotiables – we’re here for the conversation.
Natural fragrance doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be conscious. Come in and smell for yourself! We think you’ll notice the difference.
Some Of Our Faves
We could list dozens of products we love that have essential oils at their ethos heart, but here are a few of our current favourites...
Self Care Company candles and diffusers - pure essential oils with health benefits.
Only the Good Stuff bath bombs and shower steamers. The right amount of essential oils to be gentle enough to all skin types as well as soothing for the mind.
Love Bites Only - natural essentials oils to keep bugs away
Don't Shop In Silence
Products containing essentials should involve care, intent and education.
If you're looking to treat a particular wellbeing or skincare concern, or you're looking for the perfect gift, please get in touch or pop into our Leigh-on-Sea store, as we'd love to make personalised recommendations for you.