Introduction:
Fragrance sensitivity, also known as fragrance intolerance or fragrance allergy, is an adverse reaction to fragrances that can result in negative, physical, and emotional effects. Although when talking about fragrance sensitivity, people typically think of perfumes and colognes, fragrance is frequently added to a variety of everyday items like toiletries, cosmetics, air fresheners, cleaning products, and pesticides. It may be challenging to pinpoint the ingredient or product that is causing the sensitivity because fragrance ingredients are not required to be disclosed on labels. Headaches, respiratory issues, asthma (breathing difficulty caused by swelling, narrowing, and excess mucus production in the airways), and skin irritations are typical responses to exposure, regardless of the allergen in question or whether it has been identified.
What Is the Cause of Fragrance Sensitivity?
Bergamot oil, citrus, grapefruit, and other synthetic scents are the most common fragrance allergies. Fragrance sensitivity is an immune system response, meaning an infection or bacteria do not cause it. Synthetic fragrance ingredients can trigger fragrance sensitivity, including cinnamic aldehyde, eugenol, isoeugenol, and strong odors. High heat can trigger fragrance sensitivity if it is applied to the skin.
What Are the Symptoms of Fragrance Sensitivity?
Common symptoms of fragrance sensitivity include itchy and watery eyes, swelling or hives on areas of skin, runny nose, sneezing, congestion, and skin irritation in areas of friction, such as armpit areas and the inner thighs. People with fragrance sensitivity may also experience eye redness, watering in the eyes, headaches, nausea, or vomiting.
How to Deal With Unwanted Fragrances in the Workplace?
If an individual suffers from fragrance sensitivity, ask the employer to implement fragrance-free policies in the workplace. This way, one can avoid coming into contact with scents that could cause harm. Be sure to include what scents are problematic and when one may need to avoid the area to prevent a reaction. Talk to the manager about the concerns. Explain what fragrance sensitivity is and how a change in the work environment would benefit. If the company does not offer a fragrance-free policy or an individual is self-employed, purchase fragrance-free products online or from a store that sells allergy-friendly products.
The employer will likely want to discuss what type of accommodation a worker may need to make the work environment more manageable. Some common solutions include:
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Finding a different place to work at times when the smells are strongest.
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Let employees know when products are added to the cleaning or grocery list.
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Allowing employees to choose fragrance-free products.
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Creating an “odor-free” area where people can take a break when they have an allergic reaction.
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Creating a fragrance-free zone in the break room.
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Providing flexible work schedules so employees can avoid times of the day when the smells are at their strongest.
How to Find Fragrance-Free Products?
For an individual with fragrance sensitivity, look for the terms on the label “fragrance-free” or “unscented” rather than “allergy free” or “hypoallergenic.” For some people, fragrance-free products are enough to prevent symptoms, while others need to avoid all scented products. People with fragrance sensitivity must be careful when selecting cosmetics and perfumes. The scents are often much stronger than everyday products like shampoos and soaps.
What Is the Diagnosis of Fragrance Sensitivity?
There is no specific diagnosis for fragrance sensitivity. Instead, it is diagnosed based on a person’s symptoms, reactions to various products, and the types of scents that trigger their reactions.
What Is the Treatment of Fragrance Sensitivity?
The best treatment is to avoid scents. Also, try these strategies to reduce the symptoms.
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Stay Hydrated - Drinking water is one of the best ways to reduce the symptoms.
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Avoid Scented Products - Scents can trigger allergies. Avoid scented candles, deodorants, perfumes, cleaning products, and laundry detergents.
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Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing - Clothing with a loose fit will reduce the amount of skin in contact with scented fabrics.
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Get Allergy Shots - Allergy shots are a series of injections that help the body build immunity to allergens. It will take a few months to tolerate the smell.
For mild, transient symptoms, try the following treatments:
Medications: Itching and stuffiness can be relieved by taking oral antihistamines such as Loratadine, Diphenhydramine, or Cetirizine. These drugs are available over-the-counter (OTC) or with a doctor's prescription.
Topical Corticosteroids Creams: Use Hydrocortisone or another steroid cream to treat a rash or itchy skin.
Bath With Colloidal Oatmeal: Itching and inflammation can be reduced by taking an oatmeal bath. Make an oatmeal compress by enclosing oatmeal in thin clothing, such as pantyhose, that has been soaked in cold water.
Moisturizing Cream or Lotion: Choose one without artificial ingredients or chemicals.
Consider Light Therapy: To help eliminate any bacteria irritating the skin or to lessen the irritation, try using blue or red light.
Tests For Contact Allergens: To identify the unique allergic triggers, the doctor or an allergist can use patch tests, which involve exposure to small amounts of various allergens. One can attempt to stay away from any perfumes that contain the ingredients after determining what is triggering the allergy.
How to Manage the Symptoms?
Take Care of Mental Health - Fragrance sensitivity is more than an allergic reaction. It is experienced with real psychological effects that can impact the quality of life. Asthma and fragrance sensitivity often have a higher rate of psychological conditions, such as anxiety and depression. Being proactive about mental health is important if an individual suffers from fragrance sensitivity. One can start by seeing a therapist and getting any diagnosable conditions treated. Individuals can also try these self-care strategies, such as practicing mindfulness.
Engage in activities that help to quiet the mind and focus on the present moment, such as meditation, yoga, or journaling. Connect with friends and family. Sometimes, feelings get better when surrounding people understand what a person goes through. When feeling overwhelmed, get help from a trusted friend or family member. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, exercise, and make time for self-care rituals that help the body and brain function better.
Conclusion:
If an individual experiences an adverse reaction to scented products, they may have fragrance sensitivity or an allergy to fragrances. Fragrance sensitivity has many ways to manage or avoid unwanted scents. An individual diagnosed with fragrance sensitivity must speak to the doctor about ways to minimize symptoms. One should take steps to avoid the triggers.
