Kennesaw State University senior Ariana Mitchell is investigating hidden fragrance allergens in everyday products, according to an April 13 announcement. Mitchell’s research focuses on two common allergens, D-limonene and linalool, which are found in citrus peels and flowers such as lavender.
The topic is important for consumers with sensitive skin or fragrance allergies who may be unaware of the risks present in common scented items. Mitchell’s work aims to reveal ingredient concentrations that are not always listed on product labels due to limited regulation.
Mitchell uses gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify and measure allergen quantities in perfumes and plug-in room fragrances. “Gas chromatography essentially heats up our allergens to turn them into gaseous molecules, allows them to be fully separated within the column, followed by the analysis of a mass spectrometer,” said Mitchell. She noted that plug-in room fragrances contained significantly higher concentrations of these allergens compared to body mists or perfumes. “The plug-ins are more concentrated because they have to fragrance an entire room, so they tend to have a lot more allergens, so much so that it actually goes completely off our scale even after diluting it,” she said.
For those with sensitivities, this could lead to serious health issues. “In extreme cases, it could trigger asthma, potentially sending someone to urgent care if they’re unaware of their allergy and the substance is present in high concentrations,” said Mitchell.
Wei Zhou, associate professor of chemistry at Kennesaw State University and principal investigator for the study, praised Mitchell’s dedication: “Since joining my lab last fall, Ariana has proven herself to be a highly dedicated and detail-oriented researcher. This research is important because it can help warn consumers, especially those with sensitivities, about which products or scent types they may need to avoid. By understanding what’s inside these fragrances, we can empower consumers to make safer, more informed choices.”
Mitchell will present her findings at the KSU Spring 2026 Symposium of Student Scholars after previously sharing her work at other academic conferences. She hopes her study will encourage regulatory agencies toward greater transparency in labeling practices.
