NEWS & BLOG · October 5, 2025 · By Zhithera Studio
IFRA standards set limits on which fragrance ingredients can be used, and how much, depending on the kind of product. An MSDS, now usually called an SDS, is a data sheet describing a specific product's hazards, handling, storage and transport. Both are useful. Neither is a stamp saying a product is "safe for everything". This guide explains what each document actually covers, the parts of an SDS worth reading, and how to ask for the right paperwork for a specific oil.
The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) is the fragrance industry's standards body. Drawing on safety assessments by the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM), it publishes the IFRA Standards, which list materials that are banned, materials that are restricted to maximum levels, and materials that must meet purity specifications. The standards are updated through periodic amendments as new research comes in.
The same fragrance ingredient can be fine in a candle and too strong for a face cream. That's why IFRA sorts products into categories, from lip products and leave-on skin creams at the strict end to products that aren't meant to touch skin at all at the most permissive end. Most room-fragrance products that aren't sprayed or applied to skin, such as candles, reed diffusers and diffuser oils, sit in that last group, Category 12.
A fragrance supplier documents this with an IFRA Certificate of Conformity. It states the maximum level at which that particular fragrance can be used in each category. If a brand says a scent "meets IFRA standards", the useful follow-up question is: for which category, and at what dose?
Not in itself. IFRA is a self-regulatory system that member companies commit to follow. Some regulations draw on the same science, and many fragrance houses apply the standards worldwide, but an IFRA reference is a sign of responsible formulation, not a government approval.
A safety data sheet (SDS), formerly called an MSDS, is a hazard-communication document for one specific product. Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), it follows a standard layout of 16 sections. It tells handlers, shippers and users what the hazards are and how to manage them. It isn't an independent test certificate, an allergen-free guarantee or proof of any effect on people.
Each document answers a different question, so the right one depends on what you need to know.
Zhithera currently offers six 100 mL fragrance oils: Orange Blossom, Sweetheart of Blooming Flowers, Eastern Elegant House, Eau De Cologne, Shangri-La and Mossy Red Teak. Orange Blossom, Sweetheart of Blooming Flowers and Eastern Elegant House are built on Givaudan fragrance materials. The 10 mL essential oils are labeled with the plant's Latin name and origin. The three blends say so on the label: South African Geranium is about 85% essential oil, and Virginia Cedarwood and Indian Oud about 35%, made with a natural atomization solvent (see pure oils vs diluted blends).
Documents are matched to the exact product. To request them, tell our support team the scent, bottle size, batch and the country it's going to, and we'll confirm which documents apply. A data sheet for one formula doesn't cover the rest of the range, and transport information depends on the specific product and how it's shipped.
No. An SDS describes hazards, handling, storage and transport for one product. Zhithera oils are for diffusion only: never apply them to skin or swallow them, and keep them away from children and pets.
They're a self-regulatory industry standard that members commit to follow, not a government approval. They're still a good sign of responsible formulation.
Room-fragrance products that aren't sprayed or applied to skin, including diffuser oils, generally fall under Category 12, products not intended for skin contact.
Ask our support team with the scent, size, batch and destination, and we'll confirm which documents are available for that exact product.
Zhithera oils are non-medical aromatic products for diffusion only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition.
Zhithera – A Professional Aromatherapy Delivery System Zhithera designs waterless, heat-free diffusers that atomize pure botanical essential oils and designer fragrance oils into a micron-fine mist using Advanced Micro-Mesh Atomization. Built for consistent, controllable aromatic states — focus, relaxation, recovery and restful ambiance — our range serves homes, offices, cars, spas, hotels and retail spaces worldwide. Every batch is traceable and supported by recognized third-party testing, with dependable wholesale and distribution support for partners around the globe.
Aromatherapy & Essential Oil Notice
Zhithera essential oils and fragrance oils are non-medical aromatic products intended for diffusion only. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition, and are not medical devices. Do not apply oils to skin or ingest them, and keep oils and devices out of reach of children and pets. Ensure good ventilation, and if you are pregnant, nursing or have a medical condition, please consult a qualified professional before use. Scent is experienced differently by everyone; discontinue use if any irritation occurs. We make no therapeutic, disinfecting or insect-repellent claims for any Zhithera product.
