Perfume and allergies: how to choose and what to do if you have sensitive skin

Many people want to use perfume, but are worried about allergies due to their sensitive skin. In fact, there are cases where the ingredients in perfume cause allergic reactions.

In this article, we will explain in detail how to choose and take measures to enjoy perfume safely even if you have sensitive skin. With the right knowledge, you can enjoy the scent while minimizing the risk of allergies.

table of contents

• Causes and symptoms of perfume allergies
• Allergy-causing ingredients
• How to choose perfume for sensitive skin
• How to do a patch test properly
• Safe Use
• What to do if you have an allergic reaction
• Summary: Enjoying scents safely

Causes and symptoms of perfume allergies

Main causes

The main causes of allergic reactions to perfume are:

1. synthetic fragrance
   • Artificially produced fragrance ingredients
   • The molecular structure is complex and highly reactive.
2. natural fragrance
   • Even plant-based products have individual differences
   • Cross-reaction with hay fever, etc.
3. Preservatives and stabilizers
   • Used to maintain the quality of perfume
   • Parabens, etc.
4. alcohol
   • Irritation caused by high concentrations of alcohol
   • Causes dry skin

Main symptoms

Symptoms of a perfume allergy include:

skin symptoms

• Itching, redness
• Eczema, hives
• Swelling, blisters
• Dryness, peeling

respiratory symptoms

• Sneezing, runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Sore throat, discomfort
• cough

Other symptoms

• headache
• Bloodshot eyes, watery eyes
• nausea

Allergy-causing ingredients

26 ingredients subject to EU regulations

In the European Union (EU), 26 ingredients that are known to cause allergies must be labelled:

1. citrus ingredients
   • Limonene (lemon, orange, etc.)
   • Citral (e.g. lemongrass)
2. Flower-based ingredients
   • Linalool (e.g. lavender)
   • Geraniol (rose, geranium, etc.)
3. Woody ingredients
   • Eugenol (from cloves)
   • Isoeugenol (Ylang Ylang, etc.)
4. Musk-based ingredients
   • Various synthetic musks

Ingredients that require special attention

• Oakmoss : Derived from moss, highly allergenic
• Tree moss : Moss from trees, prone to skin sensitization
• Cinnamon : Strong irritant and prone to skin irritation

How to choose perfume for sensitive skin

Check the ingredients list

When choosing a perfume, look for the following:

1. Presence or absence of allergen ingredients
   • Confirmation of the labeling of 26 EU-regulated ingredients
   • Check for ingredients you are personally allergic to
2. Additive-free/low irritation indication
   • Paraben Free
   • Alcohol Free
   • Unscented/slightly scented

Recommended perfume types

Cologne

• Relatively low alcohol content
• The fragrance concentration is low, so it is less irritating
• It evaporates in a short time, so it is gentle on the skin.

Natural fragrance base

• Often gentler on the skin than synthetic fragrances
• However, if you have plant allergies, be careful.

Organic Perfume

• Minimize synthetic chemicals
• Products with certification marks are safe

Tips for choosing a brand

1. Active in disclosing ingredients
   • All ingredients are displayed
   • Allergen information clearly stated
2. Product development for sensitive skin
   • There is a hypoallergenic line
   • Skin tested
3. Sample provided
   • There is a trial size
   • Return and exchange policy

How to do a patch test properly

Always do a patch test before using a new perfume.

What you need:

• Perfumes to test
• Clean cotton or tissue
• Bandages (medical tape that is not prone to skin rashes)

Testing Procedure

1. Test Site Selection
   • Inner upper arm (soft part)
   • Inside of the wrist
2. Perfume application
   • Apply a thin drop to a cotton swab
   • Approximately 1 cm in diameter
3. Protection and supervision
   • Cover with a bandage (if necessary)
   • Observe for 24-48 hours

Judgment criteria

Normal response

• No redness, swelling or itching
• No skin changes

Abnormal reaction (discontinuation)

• Redness and swelling appear
• Itching and pain
• Blisters, peeling skin

Safe Use

The best place to attach it

If you have sensitive skin, consider using it on the following areas:

1. Use on clothing
   • Do not touch the skin directly
   • Choose a place that is less likely to stain
2. Use on hair
   • Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair
   • Do not apply directly to the scalp
3. If it's skin, avoid pulse points
   • Avoid wrists and neck
   • Non-sensitive areas such as ankles

Usage Throttling

• Start with a small amount (1-2 drops)
• Gradually adjust the amount
• Avoid stacking

Use Frequency Management

• Avoid daily use
• Start from 2-3 times a week
• Adjust while checking the skin condition

What to do if you have an allergic reaction

For mild reactions

1. Immediate removal
   • Wash thoroughly with soap and water
   • Gently rinse without scrubbing
2. cooling
   • Cool the area with a cold towel
   • Anti-inflammatory effect
3. Moisturizing
   • Use a mild moisturizer
   • Restores the skin's barrier function

In case of severe reaction

Seek medical help if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Widespread rash
• Severe itching or pain
• Blister formation
• difficulty breathing
• Systemic symptoms (fever, headache, etc.)

Medical treatment

• Prescription antihistamines
• Topical steroids
• Allergen specific testing

Ranjatai Eau de Parfum for sensitive skin

Our brand's Ranjatai Eau de Parfum is formulated with natural fragrances as the main ingredient, however, if you have sensitive skin, please be aware of the following:

• Conduct a patch test before use
• Start using with a small amount
• Adjust frequency of use according to skin condition

Learn more about Ranjatai Eau de Parfum

Summary: Enjoying scents safely

Even if you have sensitive skin, you can still enjoy perfume safely with the right knowledge and precautions:

Key Takeaways

1. Check the ingredients
   • Check for allergens
   • Matching with individual allergy history
2. Conducting a patch test
   • Always test new perfumes
   • 48-hour observation
3. Proper Use
   • Start with a small amount and low frequency
   • Avoid direct use on skin
4. Response in the event of an abnormality
   • Quick cleaning and cooling
   • In severe cases, seek medical help

Fragrances are wonderful things that enrich our lives. Find your favorite scent and enjoy it while being mindful of safety, even for those with sensitive skin.

Related articles

• Learn the basics about perfume - the different types and concentrations of perfume
• What is the difference between natural and synthetic fragrances ? A detailed explanation of the ingredients in perfume