Artificial musks
Bioaccumulative, Persistent and Toxic to Reproduction
How do you say it?
Polycyclic: polly-syke-lick
Macrocyclic: mak-roe-syke-lick
Xylene: zye-leen
What are they?
Artificial musks were developed to replace natural musks that were derived from animals. Artificial (or synthetic) fragrances are now added to all sorts of products, including soaps, perfumes, body lotions, laundry detergents, fabric conditioners, household cleaners and air fresheners. However, as there is no requirement to label them it can be difficult to tell which specific products they’re in.
What’s the problem?
There are three main groups: nitro musks, polycyclic musks and macrocyclic musks. Musk xylene (a nitro musk) is a particular problem as a widespread contaminant of the environment. The polycyclic musks are thought to less environmentally-damaging than nitro musks but they are also persistent, bio-accumulative and toxic to reproduction. Macrocyclic musks are currently being investigated as possible substitutes for the other two musk groups.
What else are they called?
They’re sometimes listed as ‘parfum’ or ‘perfume’, but this is does not identify which group of musks the ingredient belongs to.
What are the alternatives?
At least one supermarket has already removed artificial musks from its own products. The best way of avoiding problem musks is to buy unfragranced products, or those that are scented with essential oils or natural plant ingredients. See our useful shopping links for help finding natural products.
For further information please contact WWF Scotland: phone 01350 728200, email info@watersense.org.uk, or write to WaterSense, c/o WWF Scotland, Little Dunkeld, Dunkeld, PH8 0AD