A perfume can be lovely to one person and bothersome to another.
The most common allergic reactions and sensitivities to perfumes and lotions are caused by the fragrance chemicals in them. Not all perfumes and lotions use the same fragrance chemical, so it is possible to be allergic to one specific perfume or lotion and not have an adverse reaction to others.
Sensitivity to Wearing Perfume or Lotion
It is fairly easy to self-diagnose a skin sensitivity to wearing perfume or lotion by applying a very small amount and waiting to see if there is a reaction. Discontinue use if a skin rash, hives or swelling or tingling of the hands, arms and face occur.
Sensitivity to Fragrances Worn by Others
People who are sensitive to the chemicals in perfumes and lotions can experience adverse reactions from being in the presence of someone wearing them. Common signs of a sensitivity or allergic reaction include difficult breathing, headache, trouble concentrating, fatigue, nausea, a hoarse voice and watery eyes.
Avoiding Adverse Reactions to Perfumes and Lotions
According to CareFair.com, "It is estimated that twenty to thirty percent of the world's population has physical or allergic reactions to one or more synthetic substances," such as fragrance chemicals. Adverse reactions can be avoided by not wearing perfumes or lotions, and minimizing the time spent around people who do.
Tags: perfumes lotions, allergic reactions, fragrance chemicals