Some of you savvy folks are already aware of this fact, some of you will find this completely unsurprising, and for some of the ladies out there……….well, damn, this is just really bad news. Chanel No 5 needs to hit the bin folks. (As does your DO for the BO, your super smelly shampoo, and that luscious body cream). Time to part ways and move on to greener pastures…or products.
The effects of manufactured scents have an immediate effect on lots and lots of people: headaches, congestion, nausea, itchiness – all are common symptoms. These heady chemical scents are found in perfumes, colognes, air fresheners, laundry detergent, sanitary pads, personal care products, diapers, baby wipes, cleaning products – they are literally everywhere.
The key is, however, even if you don’t have an immediate reaction to scents, they are still really REALLY not good for you. The chemicals being used in scent manufacturing are linked to:
- Nervous disorders
- Kidney issues
- Respiratory problems
- Digestion issues
- Chronic Fatigue
- Autoimmune diseases
- Fibromyalgia
- Neurological conditions
- Allergies
And these are just some of the ones we know. Toxicity is often the cause of undiagnosed illnesses. Many people who have been unable to find a diagnosis in conventional medicine get better when treated for toxicant overload by someone who knows how to assess, diagnose and treat it.
Many of the substances that are put into our everyday products are not tested for safety. In some cases, companies aren’t required to share some of the patented “secret” ingredients of the products and chemicals they use.
The Bottom Line:
- Fragrances contain chemicals that can cause reactions ranging from allergic reactions and weight gain, to severe conditions or illnesses.
- Many substances that have been discovered in fragrances have not specifically been tested for human safety.
- Fragrance contains phthalates which disrupt hormones (weight, fertility**)
- Companies are not required to list or reveal all the chemicals they do have in their products.
4 Tips for lowering your exposure to toxic perfumes
1. Avoid products with mystery ingredients
If it says “fragrance” or “perfume” never buy it. Also absolutely avoid anything that includes:
- Acetone
- Benzaldehyde
- Benzyl acetate
- Benzyl alcoholamphor
- Ethanol
- Ethyl acetate
- Limonene
- Linalool
- Methylene chloride
2. Look for personal care products that use 100% natural essential oils for the scent component
Essential oils aren’t cheap, so if a product is very cheap, likely it’s not natural. Look for natural, and organic deodorants, hair products, and perfumes. Please put your personal care products into these amazing resources to see if they are safe for you, and to find some that are:
3. Choose natural household products
Cleaning products are often filled with cheap chemical perfumes and can be substituted very cheaply for homemade products. Some locally available products that are clean – EcoMax, Nature Clean.
4. Avoid scented air products
Febreeze is a nasty piece of business. Don’t let this cocktail of toxic chemicals anywhere near your home or car. If you want to keep the air smelling fresh, add more plants, use an air purifier, and get an essential oil mist or aromatizer. Never use “plug ins”, never have “air fresheners” in your car- again unless purely derived from essential oils.
Most scented candles are also full of chemicals. Opt for a slow burning candle that uses essential oil (only) for scent, or for unscented beeswax candles.
Do you have mystery symptoms or suspect you may be suffering from toxicity?
While everyone can benefit from eliminating toxic scents from their lives, your body will need help if you are already suffering from the effects of toxicity.
Book a complimentary 15-minute consultation (in the office or by phone) to discuss your unique situation with me. To set up this complimentary consultation, please call my reception staff at (416) 929-0707.
