Perfumes are not static products. Like all olfactory creations, they evolve naturally over the years. These adjustments affect the entire sector and are part of the normal life cycle of a fragrance.
In our previous article, we discussed good practices for using fragrances, as well as certain phenomena that can occur during their use. It is just as important to know that fragrance compositions can also evolve over time.
Each change has a specific objective, which is supported by our teams: to guarantee fragrances that comply with current regulations, are safe to use and always live up to our quality standards.
A perfume that evolves is not a perfume of lesser quality. On the contrary, these adjustments allow us to continue to offer fragrances that are controlled, up to date and compliant, while respecting their original identity.
What is reformulation?
A simple definition
In perfumery, a reformulation is the modification of the composition of a fragrance in order to best preserve its identity while adapting it to new constraints, such as regulations, safety or the supply of raw materials. Our teams may have to modify, replace or withdraw certain raw materials.
Minor or major reformulation
In the vast majority of cases, these are minor reformulations, with no perceptible impact on the fragrance. Our teams simply adjust certain balances to remain compliant, while preserving the olfactory result.
More rarely, certain changes may be more marked. For example, a fragrance may contain a high proportion of a specific raw material. If regulations impose a reduction in the threshold for its use, or prohibit its use altogether, our teams have to rethink this balance. This can lead to a more visible adaptation of the fragrance, while seeking to remain as close as possible to its original signature.
Preserving the olfactory DNA
During each reformulation, our teams work with precision to reproduce the original fragrance as faithfully as possible. The aim is to preserve its character, balance and signature.
Why these changes are necessary?
Strict regulations
Fragrance compositions are subject to strict international regulatory frameworks, in particular the standards of the IFRA (International Fragrance Association) and European legislation. These standards are regularly updated to incorporate scientific advances and to keep safety requirements up to date.
Regulated raw materials
Certain fragrance substances may be subject to restrictions, dosage limits or progressive bans. Formulas must then be adjusted to ensure regulatory compliance, while preserving the olfactory integrity of the fragrance.
The natural variability of raw materials
Raw materials, particularly natural ones, can vary according to harvest, climatic conditions or availability. Our teams adjust the formulas to maintain constant quality.
What impact will this have on your fragrances?
In most cases, no perceptible change
Most reformulations are imperceptible. The fragrance retains its usual olfactory profile.
Sometimes, slight nuances
In some cases, subtle differences may appear. This may involve a slightly softer note or a different intensity.
Possible variations in appearance
Changes in colour or appearance may also be observed. These variations are normal and do not affect the quality or performance of the fragrance.
What to do in case of reformulation?
If you use our fragrances in a professional capacity, certain steps must be taken in order to comply with regulations and guarantee the safety of your own products.
Update your regulatory documents
When a fragrance is reformulated, the associated documents change. It is therefore essential to download the most recent version of the safety data sheet, available in each product data sheet, as well as, if applicable, the updated IFRA information.
The version number and the date the document was updated are specified in the Word file, at the top of the page.
These documents should be used to check the compliance of your creations and, if necessary, update your own regulatory files.
Check your labelling
A reformulation may lead to changes in the compulsory information, particularly with regard to allergens or safety pictograms.
We recommend that you check your labels and adjust them if necessary to ensure compliance with current regulations.
Adjust your declarations if necessary
If you have declared your products to the relevant authorities, such as the CPNP portal for cosmetics, an update may be required in line with changes linked to fragrances.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your declarations remain accurate and up to date.
Test your finished products
Even if the majority of reformulations have no perceptible impact, it is advisable to carry out new tests on your finished products.
This allows you to check the hold, diffusion and overall appearance of the fragrance in your specific application, so that you can guarantee consistent quality to your customers.
Our commitment to quality
Perfumers work to stay true to the original fragrance
We pay particular attention to each fragrance, from the moment it is created through to any changes it may undergo. Our priority remains the same: to offer you fragrances that are true to their identity, safe to use and in line with the most stringent requirements in the industry. This work requires extensive testing, meticulous adjustments and in-depth expertise in the raw materials. The aim is clear: to preserve the fragrance's DNA while adapting it to new constraints.
Testing and validation before release
Before being reintroduced, each reformulated fragrance undergoes strict testing and validation. These stages ensure that the fragrance meets our quality, safety and performance standards.
Support if needed: advice, close alternatives
We remain at your side to support you through these changes. Our customer service team is available to answer your questions, provide guidance or suggest close alternatives if necessary.
You can contact us via our online form.
Transparency towards customers
Because trust is essential, we have set up a notification system to let you know when a fragrance is reformulated. If you have already purchased any of the affected fragrances (excluding the 30 ml size), please be advised so that you can update your safety data sheets if necessary.
Please ensure you have accepted cookies in order to receive our notifications.
If you have already declined them, please go to the bottom of our website to the ‘Cookie Preferences’ section.
We are committed to communicating these changes clearly, so that you can continue to use our fragrances with complete peace of mind.
To remember
Ultimately, reformulation is an integral part of the life of a fragrance. Behind each change lies meticulous work aimed at preserving the balance, quality and olfactory identity of each fragrance, while meeting regulatory requirements and changes in raw materials.
To help you better understand the world of fragrances and make the right choices, we've put together a series of articles to guide you. You'll find advice, explanations and resources to help you learn more about fragrances, their composition and their everyday use.
