Lance Carson
Fragrances are known to trigger adverse reactions in many people. A 2016 study found that nearly 35% of the general American population considered scented products irritating. Exposure to fragrances can trigger allergies, skin sensitivities, and cause harm over time. Many people have reported feeling dizzy, experiencing headaches, and nausea after being exposed to perfumes. Some people have also reported feeling relaxed and happy when exposed to fragrances, which could cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness. In some cases, the alcohol present in perfumes can also cause dizziness, especially if one is hungry or hasn't eaten in a while.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can perfume cause vertigo? | Yes, perfumes can cause vertigo, dizziness, and headaches. |
| How much perfume is too much? | Testing more than 5-6 perfumes at a time can cause dizziness. |
| What are the other side effects? | Allergic reactions, skin sensitivities, nausea, migraines, asthma attacks, respiratory difficulties, fatigue, problems concentrating, numbness, skin rashes, sinus irritation, and contact dermatitis. |
| What are the toxic ingredients? | Ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. |
| What are the alternatives? | Using scented shampoos and body lotions instead of perfumes. |
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What You'll Learn
Allergic reactions to perfumes
Fragrance sensitivities are becoming more common, and it is estimated that up to 4.5% of the general adult population may be allergic to fragrance materials. A perfume allergy occurs when certain fragrance components, or allergens, come into contact with the skin, causing an abnormal immune reaction and subsequent inflammatory response.
The majority of ingredients in perfumes that cause a reaction are not allergens but rather synthetic or chemical irritants. Allergens, on the other hand, are organic proteins that cause an inflammatory response in the body and allergy symptoms. Symptoms of a perfume allergy can include itching, redness, and a rash that can be very uncomfortable. In some cases, more severe allergic reactions can occur, such as swelling in the mouth, lips, or tongue, and anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.
It can be difficult to identify the specific allergen causing the reaction, as fragrance manufacturers are not required to list all the chemicals used in their perfumes. However, an allergist can perform patch tests to determine specific allergic triggers. Treatment for a perfume allergy depends on its severity and may include medications, topical ointments, and oatmeal baths. To avoid allergic reactions, it is recommended to always check the labels of cosmetic and personal care products and try to avoid any products that contain known allergens.
In addition to allergic reactions, some people may experience dizziness, headaches, and nausea after exposure to perfume. While this may not be a true allergy, it is a sensitivity that can be very uncomfortable. Some people have found that spraying perfume on their clothing, rather than their skin, helps to reduce these symptoms, as the perfume can be easily removed.
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The effects of inhaling perfume alcohol
Perfumes contain a mixture of fragrance (usually an oil derived from flowers) and an alcohol (often ethanol and water solution). The alcohol and water evaporate, leaving the fragrant oil behind. The alcohol in perfumes is used to preserve and stabilize the scent, but it is toxic and may cause serious health issues if swallowed in amounts greater than 30 milliliters. Ethanol, the most common alcohol in perfumes, has been deemed likely carcinogenic. The National Toxicology Program also deemed styrene, an ingredient in many cosmetic products, a likely carcinogen.
Inhaling perfume can cause dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Some people report feeling dizzy, akin to being carsick, and experiencing intense headaches from wearing perfume. Others have shared that certain notes, like gardenia or white flowers, trigger these symptoms more than others. The effects of exposure to fragrances are not limited to physical symptoms; they can also impact breathing rate, heart-rate variability, mood, and work performance.
The impact of inhaling perfume alcohol on the airways is inconclusive. While human exposure studies indicate that reported lung function effects are likely due to perception rather than toxic effects, there is limited information on the long-term effects of exposure. Additionally, the fragrances may increase high-frequency heart rate variability.
It is important to note that fragrance manufacturers are not required to disclose all ingredients, as they are protected by laws safeguarding "trade secrets." This lack of transparency makes it challenging for consumers to identify specific ingredients causing adverse reactions.
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Perfume poisoning in children
While perfume poisoning is rare, it is important to be aware of the risks and symptoms, especially when it comes to children. Fragrance products, such as perfumes, colognes, and aftershaves, contain ingredients that can be harmful if ingested or even inhaled, and children are at the highest risk health-wise.
The most toxic ingredients in perfumes are usually ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. These alcohols are poisonous and can cause serious effects, especially in children. Ingesting as little as a teaspoon of perfume can lead to alcohol poisoning in children, resulting in symptoms such as drowsiness, inebriation, slurred speech, depressed breathing, loss of coordination, seizures, and even a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. If a child ingests a significant amount of perfume, it is crucial to contact a poison control center or a pediatrician immediately. They may advise giving the child a small, carb- or sugar-heavy snack to prevent a dangerous drop in blood sugar while monitoring for any symptoms. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary for observation and supportive care.
In addition to ingestion, fragrance products can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in children. Contact dermatitis is a common issue, and fragrances can exacerbate eczema and cause rashes. It is advised to discontinue the use of any product causing skin irritation and to wash the affected area with soap and water. Fragrances can also trigger migraines and aggravate asthma symptoms, leading to airway obstruction.
To prevent perfume poisoning in children, it is important to keep all fragrance products out of their reach and not to apply them in their presence. If a child is exposed to fragrance products, ensure they understand that they should never apply them on their own.
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Perfume ingredients and their risks
While perfume can cause dizziness and headaches, there are other risks associated with the ingredients used in perfumes. Perfumes are a collection of natural and synthetic ingredients, and the term "fragrance" or "parfum" on an ingredient list is an umbrella term for all the compounds and chemicals that make up a product's fragrance. The International Fragrance Association (IFRA) is the self-regulating global representative body of the fragrance industry, and it sets its own safety standards and regulations. However, many of the chemicals used lack substantial research and safety data, and some have been linked to adverse health effects.
One example is styrene, which has been deemed a probable human carcinogen by the National Toxicology Program and the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Phthalates, commonly found in fragrances, are also known endocrine disruptors with the potential to cause reproductive harm. Fragrances are also one of the most common causes of contact dermatitis and allergies, with physical exposure to perfumes and fragrance ingredients causing skin issues for some people.
In addition, fragrance chemicals have been linked to harmful chronic health effects, including cancer, birth defects, and hormone disruption. A study of 200 migraine sufferers found that odours from perfume can trigger migraines within minutes.
To avoid potential risks, consumers can opt for non-toxic perfumes made with pure essential oils or choose beauty brands that disclose all ingredients in their products. It is also recommended to read labels carefully and source companies that use trusted ingredients.
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How to treat perfume-related dizziness
Experiencing dizziness, nausea, or even vomiting upon smelling certain perfumes is a common phenomenon known as "perfume-induced dizziness" or "fragrance sensitivity". It is not an indication of toxicity in the fragrance but is rather a form of olfactory fatigue that occurs as a natural defence mechanism. This often stems from awakening unpleasant memories or triggering the body's avoidance response. For example, many people may feel dizzy when exposed to aquatic or white floral perfumes, as they tap into collective aversions.
Recognize and Avoid Scents That Trigger Dizziness
A practical way to manage perfume-related dizziness is to identify and avoid specific scent triggers. Recognizing these triggers can help you steer clear of certain fragrances or scent combinations that are known to cause dizziness. When choosing perfumes, opt for samples first to test and identify any potential triggers. Understanding these scents and taking steps to avoid them is crucial to reducing fragrance-induced discomfort.
Opt for Mild or Soft Fragrances
If most fragrances affect you, consider opting for milder or softer perfumes with more subtle scents. For example, Glossier's fragrance is known for its soft and gentle scent that may be less likely to trigger dizziness.
Avoid Offending Fragrances in Your Environment
Another way to manage perfume-related dizziness is to reduce your exposure to offending fragrances in your environment. This can be done by using unscented soaps and lotions, choosing fake flowers over real ones, and banning cigarettes indoors. Communicate your sensitivities to friends, family, and colleagues, as they may be unaware that their fragrances are affecting you.
Use Over-the-Counter Medications
In cases where you cannot avoid exposure to triggering fragrances or when symptoms persist, you can use over-the-counter medications to treat the symptoms. This includes pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or nasal decongestants to overcome congestion. If you have asthma or allergies, be sure to take your usual medications to manage any flare-ups caused by fragrance sensitivity.
Identify and Avoid Specific Ingredients
In addition to recognizing scent triggers, you can also identify and avoid specific ingredients known to cause perfume-induced dizziness. For example, if you find that spices or bitter fragrances trigger your dizziness, avoid ingredients like star anise, cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg, leather, and bitter almond. If sweet scents are a trigger, stay away from ingredients such as honey, vanilla, tonka bean, and coconut.
By following these steps and being mindful of your scent surroundings, you can effectively treat and manage perfume-related dizziness.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, perfumes can cause vertigo. Some people have reported feeling dizzy, experiencing headaches, and nausea after exposure to perfumes. This could be due to the alcohol content in perfumes or an allergic reaction to certain ingredients.
Perfumes can cause mild to severe allergic reactions, including skin sensitivities and respiratory difficulties. In rare cases, "perfume poisoning" can occur, leading to toxic reactions and long-term damage to the body. However, immediate and irreversible damage from one-time use is uncommon.
Feeling dizzy after testing perfumes could be due to various reasons. It may be caused by the alcohol content in the perfume, low blood pressure due to relaxation, or a combination of factors such as an empty stomach, poor ventilation, and overtesting multiple perfumes simultaneously.
To prevent dizziness, avoid testing perfumes on an empty stomach, ensure proper ventilation in the testing area, and limit the number of perfumes tested simultaneously. Additionally, consider testing perfumes at different times of the day and opt for perfumes that disclose all ingredients on the label to make informed choices regarding potential allergens.
