Heidi Norton
Whether doctors can wear perfume is a contentious issue. While some doctors choose to wear perfume to work, others avoid it due to concerns about triggering asthma or other allergies in patients. Federal and provincial human rights acts require accommodation for employees who are sensitive to scents in the workplace, but this does not extend to patients in hospitals or clinics. Some hospitals have implemented scent-free policies, while others allow the use of safe' scents, such as fresh and clean fragrances. Ultimately, the decision to wear perfume or not depends on individual preferences and the specific work environment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Doctors wearing perfume | Some doctors choose not to wear perfume to work, especially in hospitals, to avoid triggering patients' asthma or other allergies. |
| Other doctors wear perfume to work, but opt for light, fresh, clean, and mass-appealing scents. | |
| Alternatives | Doctors who don't wear perfume to work may use scented deodorant or apply perfume to their masks. |
| Patient preferences | Some patients prefer doctors not to wear perfume, while others have complimented doctors on their perfume. |
| Policies | Some hospitals have no perfume policies for staff, while others have enforced or request policies for patients. |
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What You'll Learn
Doctors' opinions on wearing perfume at work
There are differing opinions on whether doctors should wear perfume at work. Some doctors choose not to wear perfume, especially when working in hospitals, to avoid triggering asthma or other allergies in patients with scent sensitivities. They may also avoid wearing perfume when working closely with patients who have lung problems or undergoing chemotherapy, as these individuals may be particularly vulnerable to fragrance triggers.
However, other doctors do choose to wear perfume at work, opting for light, fresh, and clean scents that are generally well-tolerated and less likely to offend those with scent sensitivities. Some doctors may also feel more comfortable wearing perfume now that PPE is commonly worn in healthcare settings, as the scent may be less noticeable to patients.
Some doctors recommend that medical and nursing students refrain from wearing perfume during their studies and when they first start working in clinical settings. This is to avoid standing out and to focus on fitting in and being conservative and cautious in a new role.
There is a growing awareness of scent sensitivity and campaigns for fragrance-free medical facilities. This includes policies requesting or requiring patients to refrain from wearing perfume during their visits. However, it is not uniform across all hospitals, and some doctors and medical professionals continue to wear perfume to work.
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Patients' opinions on doctors wearing perfume
Some patients have shared their appreciation for doctors who wear pleasant perfumes, particularly in settings where body odours or other unpleasant smells are prevalent. In such cases, patients have found that a light fragrance can be refreshing and help create a more positive experience. However, it is important to consider that not all patients may react the same way, and the potential impact on those with scent sensitivities should be taken into account.
Patients' opinions also vary depending on the medical specialty and the type of care they are receiving. For example, patients undergoing chemotherapy or those with lung problems would likely prefer their doctors to avoid wearing any perfume. In contrast, patients in other specialties, such as dentistry or general practice, may be less concerned about their doctors' choice of perfume.
Overall, while some patients may enjoy pleasant fragrances, the priority for most patients is that their doctor maintains good personal hygiene and presents themselves in a professional and appropriate manner. This may include being mindful of the type and amount of perfume worn, especially in healthcare settings where strong scents can aggravate respiratory conditions or cause discomfort to scent-sensitive individuals.
To accommodate patients with scent sensitivities, some hospitals and medical facilities have implemented scent-free policies, requesting that both staff and patients refrain from wearing perfumes or strongly scented products. These policies aim to create a comfortable and safe environment for all patients and staff, reducing the potential for asthma attacks or other adverse reactions triggered by artificial scents.
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Hospitals' policies on doctors wearing perfume
While some doctors choose to wear perfume to work, others avoid it to prevent exacerbating patients' asthma or other allergies. Federal and provincial human rights acts require accommodation for employees who are sensitive to scents in the workplace, but this does not extend to patients in hospitals or clinics.
Some hospitals promote a scent-free environment, but this is not a uniform policy across all hospitals. Many public places also promote scent-free environments. There is a growing understanding of the basis of reactions to artificial scents, and surveys show that about 30% of people report having some sensitivity to scents worn by others. 27% of people with asthma say their asthma is made worse by exposure to artificial scents.
There is evidence that asthma can be aggravated by artificial scents, which is particularly concerning in hospitals where vulnerable patients with asthma or other upper airway or skin sensitivities are present. These patients may be involuntarily exposed to artificial scents from staff, other patients, and visitors, which could worsen their condition.
Until scent-free policies are implemented across all hospitals, individual hospitals must take the lead in promoting scent-free environments, especially in spaces where susceptible patients wait. In the meantime, doctors and other healthcare workers must use their discretion in deciding whether or not to wear perfume to work, taking into consideration the potential impact on patients.
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Types of perfume doctors can wear to work
Doctors can wear perfume to work, but they should be cautious about the type and amount of fragrance they apply. It is important to choose inoffensive, clean, and fresh scents that will not trigger scent sensitivities or asthma in patients and colleagues.
One doctor recommends wearing "your skin but better" scents, such as Clean Reserve Skin and Glossier You, which give off a natural skin-like vibe and are super inoffensive. Another doctor's favourite perfume to wear to work is Chris Rusak's Beast Mode, which they describe as long-lasting and natural-smelling, with a tight sillage that is not too overpowering. This doctor also mentions that Bleu de Chanel is a commonly worn fragrance among their colleagues.
When it comes to application, doctors should be strategic about where they apply their perfume. It is recommended to avoid applying fragrance below the elbows due to frequent handwashing, which can wash away the scent. Instead, spraying the sleeves of scrubs or lab coats is a good option, as it creates a pleasant scent bubble without being too strong.
Some doctors choose to wear fragrance oils on top of their perfumes to help the scent last throughout the day, especially when wearing personal protective equipment (PPE). However, it is important to be mindful of patients and colleagues who may have scent sensitivities or asthma, and to follow any scent-free policies implemented by the hospital or medical facility.
Overall, when selecting a perfume to wear to work, doctors should opt for light, fresh, and clean fragrances that are applied sparingly and in appropriate areas to minimise the risk of triggering scent sensitivities in others.
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Alternatives to perfume for doctors
Doctors should be cautious about wearing perfume due to the risk of triggering asthma attacks or other allergies in patients. However, some doctors choose to wear subtle fragrances that are not overpowering. Here are some alternatives to strong perfumes that doctors can consider:
Natural Fragrances
Natural, non-synthetic fragrances are becoming increasingly popular in the fragrance industry. These perfumes often use natural ingredients such as essential oils and plant extracts to create fresh and subtle scents. Some popular natural perfume alternatives include floral fragrances with notes of black currants, May rose, freesia, vanilla patchouli, and Ambroxan. These natural fragrances provide a youthful, fresh, and sophisticated scent without being too overpowering.
Light and Fresh Scents
Instead of strong perfumes, doctors can opt for light and fresh fragrances that are unlikely to offend or trigger allergies. Scents like Terre d'Hermes, Chanel Platinum Egoiste, and Dolce & Gabbana Pour Homme are known for being fresh and low-profile. These fragrances are designed to be subtle and in the air, rather than overpowering. Lightly spraying these fragrances can create a pleasant aroma without causing irritation.
Soapy Scents
Soapy scents are often recommended for doctors as they are clean and unobtrusive. Prada Infusion d'Homme is a popular choice for those seeking a soapy fragrance. These scents are typically less likely to trigger allergies and can provide a subtle freshness without being too noticeable.
Strategic Application
Doctors who choose to wear perfume can be strategic about where they apply it. It is recommended to avoid applying fragrance below the elbows due to frequent handwashing. Spraying perfume on the sleeves of scrubs or lab coats can create a subtle scent bubble without being too strong. This allows doctors to enjoy their favourite fragrances while minimising the impact on those around them.
Scent-Free Alternatives
In addition to choosing subtle fragrances, doctors can also consider using scent-free alternatives. This may include opting for unscented deodorants, antiperspirants, or skincare products. By minimising the use of scented products, doctors can create a safer environment for patients with scent sensitivities.
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Frequently asked questions
Doctors can wear perfume, but it is not recommended due to the risk of triggering asthma or other allergies in patients. Some hospitals have scent-free policies.
Doctors should opt for fresh, clean, and mass-appealing scents if they choose to wear perfume. Soapy perfumes are also a good option as they are less likely to offend those with fragrance sensitivities.
Doctors should be strategic about where they apply perfume. Avoid applying below the elbows due to frequent handwashing. Spraying at the sleeves of scrubs or on the chest under clothing can provide a subtle scent bubble.
Yes, doctors should avoid wearing perfume when working with patients who have lung problems, asthma, or other known scent sensitivities. It is important to prioritize the health and comfort of patients.
Yes, doctors can implement an enforced or requested policy for patients regarding perfume. An enforced policy asks patients wearing perfume to reschedule their appointments, while a requested policy asks patients to refrain from wearing perfume in the future.
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