Heidi Norton
Many people enjoy wearing cologne to enhance their personal style and boost their confidence. However, applying cologne to certain parts of the body can sometimes lead to adverse reactions, such as skin irritation or allergies. This is because colognes often contain chemicals and alcohols that can be drying or irritating to the skin. To avoid potential harm, it is important to understand the best practices for applying cologne and to be aware of the areas of the body that are more sensitive to fragrance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Why does cologne hurt some parts of the body | Exposure to cologne can trigger allergies, skin sensitivities, and cause harm over time |
| The chemicals in cologne can cause a mild allergic reaction known as contact dermatitis | |
| Cologne contains ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, which are toxic and may cause symptoms if swallowed in amounts greater than 30ml | |
| Some chemicals in cologne can be dangerous if they build up in the body | |
| Styrene, an ingredient found in many cosmetic products, was deemed a likely carcinogen by the National Toxicology Program in 2014 | |
| Musk ketone is often found in human breast milk and fatty tissue, and its effects are unclear | |
| Some chemicals in cologne increase the skin's absorption of potential carcinogens, alcohols, and petroleum | |
| Exposure to phthalates in cologne during early childhood or in utero may pose risks to children's respiratory health | |
| Parts of the body to avoid applying cologne | Hair, as alcohol-based fragrances can be drying |
| Hands, as the fragrance can lead to potential staining and be transferred to other people and objects | |
| Underarms, as the skin absorbs fragrances quickly and holds the scent for a long time, potentially causing health problems | |
| Eyes, as the skin is sensitive and can become irritated | |
| Lips, as the skin is fragile and absorbent, and it is difficult to control the amount of fragrance applied | |
| Genitals, as it can lead to skin problems and the scent usually fades quickly |
What You'll Learn
Cologne can cause skin irritation and allergies
Colognes are often alcohol-based and contain a mixture of different "raw materials" or perfume oils. These oils can be natural or synthetic and are mixed with a solvent (usually alcohol) to preserve and dilute the scent. While cologne can make you feel more attractive and confident, it's important to be aware of potential skin irritation and allergies that may be caused by its application.
Skin irritation
The skin on different parts of the body varies in sensitivity. For example, the skin around the eyes is extremely sensitive, and spraying perfume near or directly into the eyes can lead to irritation. Similarly, the skin on the lips is fragile and absorbent, and spraying perfume directly onto the lips can be risky as it's challenging to control the amount of fragrance applied.
Allergies
Some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to specific ingredients in colognes. Due to laws protecting fragrance manufacturers' trade secrets, it can be challenging to determine the exact ingredients in a cologne, as they are often listed simply as "fragrance" on the packaging. However, if you experience redness, itching, or sinus irritation when exposed to a particular fragrance, it is likely that you have a sensitivity to one or more of its ingredients.
Tips for reducing skin irritation and allergies
- Test colognes on your skin before purchasing to see how they react with your body chemistry.
- Apply cologne sparingly and strategically to ensure it lasts all day and doesn't overpower.
- Avoid spraying cologne directly onto your clothes, as this can prevent the scent from developing fully and may harm certain fabrics.
- Avoid applying cologne to sensitive areas such as the eyes, lips, and genitals, as this can lead to skin irritation or other problems.
- Opt for colognes that list all their ingredients on the label, rather than using the term "fragrance" or "parfum."
- Choose colognes with essential oils as the scent source or opt for unscented products.
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Spraying cologne on clothes prevents it from mixing with natural oils
Some people have sensitive skin that reacts to cologne or perfume. In such cases, spraying cologne on clothes is a better option than spraying it on the skin. The fibres of the clothes absorb and retain perfume way longer than the skin can. As one moves throughout the day, the fabric releases the perfume, creating a captivating halo around the wearer.
However, one must keep in mind that spraying dark juices on delicate or pale fabrics may result in fabric stains because of the oil present in all perfumes. It is advisable to test a small, hidden area of the fabric first.
Spraying cologne on clothes is a good way to make the scent last longer. However, one downside is that one may have to wear the same perfume for as long as one is wearing that particular piece of clothing. Sometimes, light washing may not be enough to eliminate strong perfumes from clothing.
Some chemicals in perfumes are included to help the skin absorb the fragrance and make it last for hours. Unfortunately, those same chemicals increase the skin's vulnerability to soaking in possible carcinogens, alcohols, and petroleum in the perfume.
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Cologne sprayed on hair can be drying
Cologne, like perfume, contains about 60 to 70% alcohol (ethanol). Alcohol is a drying agent for skin and hair as it can dissolve oils, disturbing the hydrolipidic film—a protective film that acts as a natural barrier that isolates and protects the skin and hair from the environment.
As such, cologne sprayed on the hair can be drying, leading to long-term damage such as breakage, split ends, and frizziness. However, it is important to note that the amount of alcohol matters. Spritzing a small amount of cologne on the hair, avoiding the scalp, is unlikely to cause significant damage to the hair.
If you want to add fragrance to your hair, it is best to use products specifically designed for hair, such as hair mists, dry shampoos, or hair serums. These products are formulated to add scent and nourish your hair without drying it out.
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Applying cologne to the underarms can cause health issues
Applying cologne to the underarms can potentially cause many health issues. The skin in the underarm area is sensitive and absorbs fragrances quickly, holding the scent for a long time. This can lead to several problems, especially if the cologne contains irritating chemicals.
Firstly, the underarm area is more sensitive to irritation than other parts of the body. Cologne applied to this area may cause burning and irritation, especially if you have removed your underarm hair. This is because the cologne can come into direct contact with the sweat glands in your armpits, leading to discomfort.
Secondly, there is a lack of knowledge about the long-term effects of cologne on underarm bacteria. A 2016 study published by PeerJ investigated the impact of antiperspirants on underarm bacteria and found that we still know very little about their broader effects on human health. Even less is known about the effects of cologne or perfume on underarm bacteria, making it a risky choice.
Thirdly, colognes often contain high amounts of ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, which can be toxic if ingested in larger amounts. These chemicals can also cause skin irritation, redness, itching, and sinus problems in some individuals.
Finally, colognes may contain other harmful ingredients that are not listed on the packaging due to laws protecting fragrance manufacturers' trade secrets. These undisclosed chemicals can include respiratory sensitizers that trigger asthma, hormone disruptors, and secret ingredients harmful to the reproductive system over time.
In conclusion, applying cologne to the underarms can cause several health issues, from skin irritation to potential toxic effects. It is best to avoid applying cologne to this sensitive area and opt for alternative methods of reducing body odour, such as maintaining good hygiene, using antiperspirants or deodorants, or applying cologne to other areas of the body, such as the wrists or neck.
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Cologne can irritate the eyes
If cologne gets into your eyes, it is important to take immediate action. Here are some steps to relieve your eyes:
- Wash your eyes with clean water immediately. Ensure that your head is tilted to the side so that the water runs across your eyes, providing a soothing and cleansing effect. Switch sides after 30 seconds. Blinking will also help to get the water inside your eyes and wash out any residual cologne.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes, as it can transfer the cologne back into your eyes and perpetuate the irritation.
- Avoid activities that strain your eyes for 30 to 45 minutes after the incident, such as screen time, physical exercises, or intense studying or work.
- If the irritation persists, seek medical advice and consult an eye specialist. They may recommend antibiotic eye drops, lubricating eye drops, or, in severe cases, autologous serum therapy.
It is worth noting that cologne contains various chemicals and ingredients that are not always disclosed to consumers. These undisclosed ingredients can cause sensitivities and allergic reactions, so it is important to be cautious when using cologne and to avoid spraying it near the eyes.
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Frequently asked questions
Some parts of the body are more sensitive than others, and cologne can cause irritation or an allergic reaction. It is best to avoid spraying cologne on the hands, armpits, eyes, lips, and genitals.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to cologne can include redness, itching, or sinus irritation. In more serious cases, a person may experience a spiking temperature, boils or large hives, or drowsiness.
If you experience an allergic reaction to cologne, remove yourself from exposure to the cologne. You can try washing the affected area with gentle, dye-free soap and lukewarm water, or applying a hypoallergenic, natural product like calamine lotion, aloe vera, or coconut oil. If symptoms persist or are severe, seek medical advice.
To avoid experiencing irritation or an allergic reaction from cologne, it is recommended to apply cologne sparingly and strategically to pulse points such as the wrists, neck, and chest. Choose a cologne that lists all of its ingredients on the label and consider seeking out products whose scent is produced by essential oils, or opt for unscented products.
