Hajusteita

Hajusteita is a Finnish term used to refer to substances added to products to impart or enhance a scent. They are used across a wide range of items, including perfumes, cosmetics, detergents, and air fresheners. The term covers both natural extracts and synthetic aroma compounds, and in Finnish usage the plural form hajusteita appears alongside related terms such as hajuste (fragrance ingredient) and haju (smell).

Composition and design: Hajusteita consist of mixtures of fragrance ingredients such as essential oils, aroma compounds, fixatives, solvents, and carriers. Choices determine the scent profile (top, middle, and base notes), volatility, and stability in different products. They may be derived from plant materials or produced synthetically. Design considerations include scent clarity, longevity, and compatibility with product formulas and packaging. Quality control and batch-to-batch consistency are important, as is ensuring that ingredients do not react unfavorably with other formulation components.

Regulation and safety: In many jurisdictions, fragrance ingredients are regulated due to potential allergenicity and irritation. EU cosmetics regulation requires labeling of fragrance ingredients and disclosure of listed fragrance allergens. Companies often perform safety assessments and comply with industry guidelines to manage risks, including avoiding certain substances and monitoring cumulative exposure. Allergen labeling practices and ingredient disclosure vary by market but are a key aspect of responsible fragrance use.

Applications and trends: Hajusteita are central to personal care products (such as lotions, shampoos, and colognes), as well as household products (laundry detergents, cleaners, and air fresheners). Trends include a shift toward sustainable sourcing of natural extracts, increased transparency of ingredient lists, and the use of technologies like microencapsulation to control fragrance release and improve product experience.

See also: perfume, fragrance, essential oil, cosmetic regulation.