The term "unscented" would seem to indicate that a product contains no natural or synthetically derived fragrance. However, some manufacturers use this term or "scent-free" when the scent has been altered so it can’t be smelled. In some cases — especially with detergents — certain major companies use an additional masking fragrance to cover up or counter the odor of the original fragrance. Obviously, this type of labeling can be somewhat confusing, if not misleading. Unfortunately for some chemically sensitive persons, the presence of the original scent and the masking fragrances will have an adverse effect. This is because, for them, it’s the chemical composition of the scents that’s bothersome — not the odors themselves.
