• What is fragrance sensitivity?

  Fragrance sensitivity may be an actual allergy or a simple irritation. It can be difficult to diagnose which is occurring. In addition, fragrances are composed of many different chemicals. This can make it difficult to identify if the sensitivity is to one particular chemical or to a combination of chemicals (Allergy Health Online, 2007).

• What is meant by “scent-free”?

  When we talk about “scents”, we usually mean the smells or odours from cosmetics (perfume, make-up, shampoo, deodorant, etc) or from other products such as air fresheners, cleaners, etc.

  Unfortunately, there is no exact definition for “scent-free”, “fragrance-free” or “unscented”. Products labelled as “unscented” may actually contain ingredients that are used to mask or hide the smell of other ingredients. According to Health Canada, when labelling cosmetics, the following terms are used:

  Fragrance Free or Unscented – This means that there have been no fragrances added to the cosmetic product, or that a masking agent has been added in order to hide the scents from the other ingredients in the cosmetic.

  While it is important to be aware of the lack of consistency when these terms are used by various manufacturers, the terms can still be a rough guideline when choosing products.
  

• Can scents cause health problems?

  When scented products have been blamed for adversely affecting a person’s health, some or all of the following symptoms are reported:

  * headaches
  * dizziness, lightheadedness
  * nausea
  * fatigue
  * weakness
  * insomnia
  * malaise
  * confusion
  * loss of appetite
  * depression
  * anxiety
  * numbness
  * upper respiratory symptoms
  * shortness of breath
  * difficulty with concentration
  * skin irritation

  Allergic and asthmatic patients, as well as those with other conditions, report that certain odours, even in the smallest amounts, can trigger an attack.

  The severity of these symptoms can vary. Some people report mild irritation while others are incapacitated and/or must give up many ‘normal’ activities in order to avoid exposure (such as going to public places).
  

• What types of products contain scents?

  Scents are included in a very large range of products including:

  * shampoo and conditioners
  * hairsprays
  * deodorants
  * colognes & aftershaves
  * fragrances & perfumes
  * lotions & creams
  * potpourri
  * industrial and household chemicals
  * soaps
  * cosmetics
  * air fresheners & deodorizers
  * oils
  * candles
  * diapers
  * some types of garbage bags

  It is important to remember some products which claim to be ‘scent free’ may have only masked the scent by use of an additional chemical. Be sure to research the product carefully if using scented products around those who are sensitive.
  

• I have read that there are carcinogens in fragrances. Is this true?

  While it depends on the formula, there can be chemicals in fragrances and related products that have been determined to cause cancer in occupational settings or in laboratory animals.
  

• Are there any labeling requirements for products or cosmetics?

  In some cases, yes, but these labeling requirements may not give you all the information you may need.

  For example: Products like cleaners and air fresheners sold to the general public (in grocery or hardware stores) require “consumer labeling” only. These labels focus on immediate hazards such as corrosion (burns to skin/eyes), explosion, fire and poison. Only certain ingredients will be listed on the package or product. To find out all of the ingredients in the product, it may be necessary to contact the manufacturer directly.

Source: Centre for Occupational Health & Safety