Perfume and Thyroid Cancer Relation Remains Unproven: Expert

RRI.CO.ID, Bogor - Spraying perfume on the neck is commonly practiced to make fragrance last longer throughout the day. However, recent concerns suggest repeated exposure near the thyroid may influence hormonal balance and health risks.

According to multiomic cancer expert of IPB University, Agil Wahyu Wicaksono, scientific evidence indicates possible links between perfume chemicals and thyroid disruption. Direct association with thyroid cancer remains unproven and still limited to theoretical hypotheses and ongoing studies.

“Based on systematic reviews, spraying perfume near the neck relates to thyroid disorder risks,” Agil stated on IPB University website, Wednesday, 25 February 2026. He mentioned the cancer connection remains hypothetical and requires stronger long term epidemiological and clinical evidence.

Most perfumes and colognes contain synthetic compounds including phthalates, parabens, and triclosan affecting endocrine regulation processes. These substances are widely studied as endocrine disruptors capable of interfering with hormone production and signaling pathways.

The chemicals can be absorbed through skin depending on exposure area, frequency, and duration of application. Neck skin is relatively thin and located close to the thyroid increasing potential localized and systemic effects.

He noted the effects generally develop gradually and do not occur instantly after ordinary perfume use. Long term excessive exposure may raise hormonal disturbance risks especially for pregnant women, adolescents, and vulnerable individuals.

Moreover, he advised safer habits such as spraying perfume on clothing, avoiding routine neck application, and limiting frequency. Consumers are also encouraged to choose products labelled phthalate free or paraben free whenever possible for precaution.