IFRA 51st Amendment: Updates, Correct Categories & How to Use IFRA

All of our fragrance oils are fully compliant with the latest IFRA 51st Amendment Standards (announced June 30, 2023). Below is an overview of what changed, category definitions, and a quick guide on how to use IFRA when formulating.

Highlights of the IFRA 51st Amendment

• Clarification about paper products
• Clarification about categorization of fabric softener sheets, dryer sheets, and dry-cleaning kits
• Categorization of pillow sprays
• Categorization of reed diffusers
• Handling of trace components
• Phototoxicity considerations for Category 6 (oral/peri-oral products)
• Elimination of “sunblock” terminology in the guidance
• Make-up remover for face/eyes may include potential lip exposure
• “Aftershaves of all types” clarified in Category 4
• Over 50 new and revised Standards notified with the 51st Amendment

About IFRA

The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) sets science-based Standards to ensure fragrance safety across perfumes, cosmetics, personal care, home care, and more. IFRA’s work is informed by RIFM research and expressed through the IFRA Code of Practice.

How IFRA Regulates Fragrance

1. Safety assessment: Toxicology, sensitization, and exposure evaluation.
2. Usage limits: Maximum acceptable concentrations (MACs) for certain materials.
3. Categories & Standards: Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Specifications by product category.
4. Ongoing research: Updated as new science emerges.
5. Transparency: Safety information supports informed formulation.
6. Regulatory alignment: Widely adopted as global best practice.

Key Updates in IFRA 51 vs IFRA 50

• Refined risk assessment (QRA2) including aggregate exposure and systemic toxicity.
• Clarified placement for borderline products (e.g., body sprays, pillow sprays, reed diffusers).
• Phototoxicity policy notes for specific categories; clearer handling of traces.
• Updated Certificate of Conformity language and implementation timelines.

Representative Ingredient Changes (50th → 51st)

Correct IFRA Product Categories (51st Amendment)

If a product spans multiple uses, apply the most restrictive category.

Important clarifications: Body sprays are Category 2 unless clearly labeled not for axilla use (then treat as Category 4). Pillow sprays are Category 11B due to limited transfer to facial skin before drying. Reed diffusers are Category 10A because of handling exposure.

How to Use IFRA When Working with Fragrance (Quick Guide)

1. Identify your product category. Use the table above; when in doubt, pick the more conservative category.
2. Get the IFRA Certificate of Conformity from your fragrance supplier (shows restricted materials and category limits).
3. Set your fragrance dosage in the finished product and confirm each restricted material remains within the category’s MAC.
4. Apply special policies (e.g., phototoxicity) to skin-exposed categories; Category 12 is not subject to phototoxicity limits.
5. Document compliance (certificates, calculations). If a product spans multiple uses, apply the most restrictive category.

Why IFRA Compliance Matters

• Consumer safety: Reduces sensitization, irritation, and phototoxic risks.
• Regulatory alignment: Supports global cosmetic and chemical frameworks.
• Brand trust: Retailers and customers value transparent, responsible formulation.