Harmful Cologne Ingredients: Allergens Lurking In Fragrances

Many people are allergic to cologne, and the number is on the rise. While colognes and perfumes are not technically allergens, they are irritants that can trigger allergy symptoms. The average cologne contains about 2,500 chemicals, many of which are unlisted, that can cause reactions such as skin irritation, sneezing, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis. Common ingredients found in colognes that can cause reactions are citronella, oak moss, balsam of Peru, and synthetic components.

Citronella, oak moss, balsam of Peru

Citronella is a natural insect and animal repellent distilled from two varieties of grass. It is a mixture of many components, primarily citronellol, citronellal, and geraniol. While it is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, oil of citronella can be mildly irritating to the skin and eyes and may cause skin allergies for some people with prolonged or frequent exposure.

Oak moss is an extract prepared from the lichen Evernia prunastri, which grows on oak trees. It is one of the eight ingredients of the fragrance mix (FM) used for diagnosing perfume allergy. Oak moss absolute, which contains resin acids, has been shown to have a significant relationship with colophonium allergies.

Balsam of Peru is a sticky aromatic liquid that comes from cutting the bark of the Myroxolon balsamum tree, native to El Salvador. It is commonly used for its fragrance in perfumes and toiletries, as well as for flavoring in food and drink, and for its healing properties in medicinal products. A typical allergic reaction may include a flare-up of hand eczema or a sore mouth (tongue) and a rash of the lips or angles of the mouth. A positive patch test result for Balsam of Peru is seen in 50% of fragrance allergy cases.

If you suspect an allergy to any of these substances, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and advice.

Natural scents like vanilla and rosemary

In another study, 9 out of 11 children under 5 years of age with severe atopic dermatitis showed eczematous reactions or urticaria when exposed to natural vanilla and artificial vanillin through double-blind oral provocation tests. This highlights the potential risk associated with the increasing consumption of flavouring agents. Additionally, bronchospasm caused by vanillin was observed in controlled double-blind challenge tests involving an asthmatic patient. Occupational contact dermatitis from vanilla may also occur during the growing, processing, or manufacturing stages, affecting individuals involved in these industries.

Rosemary, on the other hand, is known to contain potential allergens. A study by the National Eczema Foundation found that rosemary is one of the hidden fragrance compounds that can cause contact allergies. It is important to note that natural scents like vanilla and rosemary are not the only ingredients in cologne that can trigger allergies. Other common ingredients found in perfumes or fragrances that can cause reactions include citronella, oak moss, balsam of Peru, and synthetic components.

People with asthma or other respiratory illnesses are more vulnerable to perfume allergies. It is always advisable to consult with an allergist or seek medical advice if you suspect you have an allergy to any natural or synthetic scents used in colognes or perfumes.

Over 2500 chemicals in cologne

Colognes and perfumes contain a cocktail of chemicals, often unlisted on the label, that can cause allergic reactions. In fact, a single fragrance can be made up of hundreds of chemical ingredients, and a single bottle can contain over 2,500 chemicals.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) reports that while many popular perfumes, colognes, and body sprays contain trace amounts of natural essences, they also typically contain a dozen or more potentially hazardous synthetic chemicals. To protect trade secrets, fragrance companies are allowed to withhold specific ingredient information, instead listing them under the generic term "fragrance".

The EWG analysed data from independent laboratory tests on 17 leading fragrances, revealing an average of 14 secret chemicals not listed on the label. These undisclosed ingredients include chemicals associated with hormone disruption and allergic reactions, as well as chemicals that accumulate in human tissues, such as diethyl phthalate and musk ketone.

Other common chemicals found in fragrances include acetone, benzaldehyde, benzyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, camphor, ethanol, ethyl acetate, limonene, linalool, methylene chloride, phthalates, stearates, and parabens.

These chemicals can induce mild allergic reactions like headaches, sinus inflammation, itchiness, and a runny nose. They have also been linked to more severe issues such as hormonal imbalances, organ damage, and even cancer.

People with asthma or other respiratory illnesses are more vulnerable to perfume and fragrance allergies. Common ingredients found in perfumes and colognes that can cause reactions include citronella, oak moss, balsam of Peru, and synthetic components.

If you suspect you have an allergy to cologne or other fragrances, it is best to consult with a medical professional for testing and advice.

Fragrance-free products

Many people experience allergies or sensitivities to ingredients in cologne and perfume. The average perfume contains about 14 chemicals that could trigger an allergic reaction, and over 2,500 unlisted chemicals are often used in the average perfume or cologne. Common ingredients found in perfumes or colognes that can cause a reaction include citronella, oak moss, balsam of Peru, and synthetic components.

If you experience allergies or sensitivities to fragrances, you may want to consider switching to fragrance-free products. Fragrance-free products are formulated without any harmful chemicals, parabens, or artificial fragrances. While products labelled "fragrance-free" may still have a scent from natural essential oils and other plant-based organic ingredients, they don't contain irritating chemical or artificial fragrances. This makes them ideal for all skin types, including those with skin sensitivities.

Nurture My Body is one brand that offers a wide range of fragrance-free beauty products, including shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, eye cream, and hand sanitiser. Their products are handmade in small batches in the USA and are free from parabens, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals.

Pai Skincare is another brand that offers organic, fragrance-free skincare products, including face oils, serums, moisturisers, and after-sun care. Their products are designed to suit even the most sensitive skin and are free from essential oils and artificial perfumes.

In addition to choosing fragrance-free products, there are several other steps you can take to reduce your exposure to fragrance allergens and manage your symptoms. This includes avoiding common areas where people wearing perfume may walk by, keeping a small air purifier near your workspace, and educating your coworkers or loved ones about your allergies.

Allergic reactions vs sensitivities

Allergic reactions and sensitivities are two different ways in which a person's body can react to a foreign substance. While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are distinct differences between the two.

Allergic Reactions

When a person has an allergic reaction, their body's immune system identifies the foreign substance as harmful and releases an inflammatory response to fight it off. This immune response can manifest as itchiness, a rash, or more severe symptoms such as anaphylaxis. In the case of cologne, common allergens include oak moss, balsam of Peru, and synthetic components. These substances can cause skin problems and trigger asthma in people with allergies.

Sensitivities

Sensitivities, on the other hand, are much more common and do not trigger a body-wide immune system response. Instead, the body reacts by trying to get rid of the irritant and return to normal. Symptoms of a sensitivity to cologne may include sneezing, a mild headache, or a rash that goes away after a few hours.

Diagnosing Allergies and Sensitivities

Determining whether a person is experiencing an allergic reaction or a sensitivity can be challenging. An allergist can perform a patch test, placing a small amount of the suspected allergen on the person's skin to observe any reactions. For those with ongoing skin conditions, a blood test may be necessary.

Treatment

The best way to manage both allergies and sensitivities is to avoid exposure to the triggering substance. Over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as antihistamines or topical creams, can also help alleviate symptoms. For severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, immediate medical attention is required.

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