Colognes And Headaches: Is There A Link?

Many people are sensitive to strong scents, and fragrances can be a common trigger for headaches and migraines. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution, as everyone has different triggers, some fragrances are more likely to cause headaches than others. Strong, synthetic scents, for example, are often cited as triggers, with some people reporting negative reactions to specific notes such as incense, cinnamon, and patchouli. On the other hand, lighter, more natural fragrances tend to be better tolerated and are less likely to cause headaches. Trial and error is often the best way to find a safe fragrance.

Cologne and migraine triggers

Colognes and perfumes are a common trigger for migraines and headaches. While some people are sensitive to specific notes or ingredients, others are sensitive to synthetic fragrances. It is important to note that fragrance sensitivity can develop over time, and one may become sensitive to a cologne that they could previously tolerate.

Synthetic Fragrances

Many fragrances contain synthetic ingredients, and some people are sensitive or allergic to these chemicals. Synthetic fragrances are created using harmful ingredients such as phthalates and animal byproducts, which can cause an "overwhelming fragrance experience." Toxic ingredients such as BHT, a chemical preservative, can disrupt hormones, damage the skin, or harm the body and the environment.

Natural Fragrances

Natural fragrances derived from essential oils are generally better tolerated by people with fragrance sensitivities. However, it is important to note that not all-natural fragrances are safe, as some people are allergic or sensitive to natural ingredients as well.

Trial and Error

Finding a cologne that does not trigger migraines can be a challenge and often involves trial and error. Sampling different fragrances and monitoring for any adverse reactions is crucial. It is also important to consider the concentration of the fragrance, as some people can only tolerate light eau de colognes or body sprays.

Safe Options

Some colognes that have been reported to be well-tolerated by individuals with fragrance sensitivities include:

• Creed
• Prada Infusion d'Homme
• Bvlgari Pour Homme
• Jo Malone London fragrances, especially the clear bottles:
• Orange Blossom
• Lime Basil & Mandarin
• Peony & Blush Suede
• Wood Sage & Sea Salt
• Wild Bluebell
• Armani Acqua Di Gio EDT (original formula)
• Armani Code EDT (original formula)
• Versace The Dreamer EDT
• Versace Blue Jeans EDT
• Cool Water EDT
• Prada Luna Rossa EDT
• Calyx by Clinique
• Citrus-y scents
• Light, fresh scents
• Citrus and vanilla perfumes
• Morning Rain Extrait de Parfum
• Lavanila Pure Vanilla Healthy Fragrance
• Phlur Strawberry Letter Eau de Parfum
• Prada Candy Eau de Parfum Spray
• Maya No 1 Perfume Oil
• Phlur Vanilla Skin Body Mist
• Jo Malone Poppy & Barley cologne
• Marc Jacobs Perfect Eau de Parfum
• Marc Jacobs Honey
• Stella Eau de Parfum Rollerball
• Chloé Eau de Parfum
• Chloé Do Son Eau De Parfum

Natural vs synthetic colognes

Colognes and perfumes can cause headaches, and it's an individual and unpredictable thing. However, some people find that natural fragrances are less likely to cause headaches than synthetic fragrances.

Natural fragrances are scents created from nature, including trees, plants, and animals. They are often derived from natural properties, such as flowers and musk. However, natural fragrances are not consistent and are difficult to recreate. They are also less potent and have a shorter shelf life than synthetic fragrances.

Synthetic fragrances, on the other hand, are developed in laboratories. They replicate natural accords without harming the environment. Synthetic fragrances are more consistent and can last longer due to the use of fixatives.

Some people prefer natural fragrances because they believe they are safer and healthier. However, natural fragrances can also contain potentially harmful chemicals, and the process of harvesting scents from trees, plants, and animals can be environmentally damaging.

When it comes to colognes, it's important to consider the concentration of the fragrance. Eau de colognes, for example, tend to be lighter and less likely to cause headaches than stronger concentrations such as eau de parfum or parfum.

Ultimately, the decision between natural and synthetic colognes depends on personal preference and individual sensitivity to specific ingredients.

How to test for headache-causing colognes

Testing for headache-causing colognes can be tricky as everyone's triggers are different, and it's often a case of trial and error. However, there are some steps you can take to minimise the risk of a cologne causing headaches.

Firstly, it's important to test colognes one at a time, as the medley of smells in fragrance aisles can be overwhelming and cause lightheadedness. Ask for a test strip to spray the cologne on and take it with you, sniffing it throughout the day to see how the scent develops and whether it causes any adverse reactions. If it passes the test strip test, spray a small amount on your skin and monitor your reaction over the next day or two.

Some people find that certain types of scents are more likely to cause headaches. For example, strong, heavy, or overly sweet perfumes can be triggering, as can certain synthetic ingredients commonly found in fragrances, such as phthalates, animal byproducts, and toxic chemicals like BHT. Therefore, opting for colognes with natural, organic, or minimal ingredients may be a better option. Eau de colognes formulated for children are also likely to be safer choices.

Some specific colognes that have been recommended by people prone to headaches include:

• Creed fragrances
• Prada Infusion d'Homme
• Bvlgari Pour Homme
• Jo Malone London fragrances, especially the ones in clear bottles such as Orange Blossom, Lime Basil & Mandarin, and Peony & Blush Suede
• Guerlain's Aqua Allegoria line
• Armani Acqua Di Gio EDT (original formula)
• Armani Code EDT (original formula)
• L'Occitane fragrances
• Chanel Pour Monsieur
• Armani Acqua di Gioia
• Frédéric Malle fragrances
• Serge Lutens fragrances
• Aveda Chakra line
• Dyptique fragrances
• Gendarme

Remember, it's always a good idea to acquire a sample of a fragrance before purchasing to check for any potential reactions.

Colognes that are unlikely to cause headaches

While there is no definitive list of colognes that are guaranteed not to cause headaches, there are some recommendations from fragrance enthusiasts that might be a good place to start.

Some people suggest opting for eau de colognes formulated for children, or lighter, more transparent fragrances, such as those by Jo Malone London. The clear bottles indicate a lighter fragrance, while the darker bottles are more intense. Some of the lighter options include Orange Blossom, Lime Basil & Mandarin, Peony & Blush Suede, Wood Sage & Sea Salt, and Wild Bluebell.

It's also worth trying out unisex vegan fragrances, which tend to be free of harmful ingredients such as phthalates and animal byproducts. One such brand is Dedcool, which offers non-toxic, potent bursts of fragrance without overwhelming your senses.

Some other colognes that might be worth trying include:

• Armani Acqua Di Gio EDT (original formula)
• Armani Code EDT (original formula)
• Versace The Dreamer EDT
• Versace Blue Jeans EDT
• Cool Water EDT
• Prada Luna Rossa EDT
• Calyx by Clinique
• Chance by Chanel
• Bleu de Chanel
• Almond Blossom by Bath & Body Works
• Poppy & Barley by Jo Malone
• Be Delicious by DKNY
• Marc Jacobs Honey

How to avoid causing headaches for others when wearing cologne

It's important to be mindful that certain fragrances can trigger headaches or even migraines for some people. While there are no hard and fast rules about which colognes will or won't cause headaches, there are some steps you can take to reduce the chances of your fragrance of choice affecting others.

Firstly, it's recommended to avoid over-spraying. Even a pleasant scent can become overwhelming and headache-inducing if it's too strong. One or two sprays are usually enough, and if the cologne is particularly potent, you might want to stick to just one. It's also considerate to avoid wearing any fragrance at all if you're going to be in close quarters with others, such as on public transport or at a concert.

In terms of specific fragrances, some people find that light, transparent, and natural fragrances are less likely to cause headaches. Eau de colognes, especially those formulated for children, tend to be safer options. Citrusy and fruity scents are often well-tolerated, as are soft, subtle vanilla perfumes. Jo Malone London fragrances are often recommended as being less likely to cause headaches, particularly their colognes in clear bottles, such as Orange Blossom, Lime Basil & Mandarin, and Peony & Blush Suede. Other recommended options include Prada Infusion d'Homme, Creed fragrances, and Armani's Acqua Di Gio and Armani Code (original formulas).

However, it's important to remember that everyone's triggers are different, and a fragrance that doesn't bother one person might be a trigger for someone else. If you know you'll be spending time with someone who's sensitive to fragrance, it might be worth asking them beforehand if there are any specific scents or ingredients they know they react to.

Frequently asked questions