Considerations for testing irritancy, allergy, and photoreactivity in fragrance safety evaluations

The aims of the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials, Inc. (RIFM), an international nonprofit science-based organization established in 1966 by the fragrance industry, include the prevention of adverse cutaneous effects, systemic toxicity, and environmental consequences from fragrance ingredients. This paper gives an overview of the RIFM testing and research program, how priorities are established, and how RIFM's safety evaluation process works.