There is a growing misconception about skin sensitivity and fragrance allergy. Of course, there is quite a big difference between both. Interestingly, only about 2% of the people suffer from fragrance allergy while the rest are merely experiencing different kinds of skin irritations. There is always the risk of having or developing allergic reactions to some types of fragrances. In fact, anything scented can pose this risk. This is why most people claim to be suffering from fragrance allergy.

Fragrance Allergy or Skin Sensitivity?

The essence of discerning if a certain reaction is a matter of fragrance allergy or skin sensitivity is crucial. This is largely due to the fact that these two reactions require entirely different treatments.

Fragrance Allergy

Allergic reactions generally mean that your body immune system is reacting to the chemical ingredients contained in a particular fragrance. Allergies can be caused by laundry detergents, perfumes, body lotions, shampoos, and other body care products.

Symptoms of Allergic reactions

You are probably suffering from an allergic reaction if you experience any of the following.

• Dizziness
• Difficulty in breathing
• Nausea
• Events of asthma attacks
• Headache
• Sore Throat
• Wheezing
• Muscle spasms

These reactions are hard to predict. Therefore, you should consult your doctor immediately you notice any of these symptoms. Your physician will conduct an allergy test in order to affirm your status. There are many ingredients that can cause allergic reactions and pinpointing which will be very hard.

Skin Sensitivity

Fragrance sensitivity, on the other hand, means that one or more of the ingredients of a particular product is not reacting well with your skin. Unlike fragrance allergy, skin sensitivity is not a serious one can be easily controlled.

Symptoms of skin sensitivity

If you experience any of the following, it is more likely that you are experiencing skin sensitivity.

• An itchy red rash which is known as Dermatitis
• Runny nose
• Itching eyes
• Headache

The good thing about the symptoms of skin sensitivity is that they are not serious and can easily be fixed by soap and water. In case the irritation left some minor rashes, you can easily remove them with hydrocortisone or antihistamine creams.

How to Handle Perfume Allergies or Sensitivity

Whether it is fragrance allergy or skin sensitivity, it is almost impossible to find out which ingredient is responsible for the reactions. With several ingredients used in making fragrances, plus the fact that some of these ingredients are made confidential, it makes identifying these components almost impossible.  If you experience any form of allergy or sensitivity, the best thing is to discontinue the use of such a skin care product.

How to prevent fragrance allergies and skin sensitivity

• Understand if your body. Simple allergy tests can be done at you physicians office
• Use paraben free oils. These oils do not contain preservatives.
• If you are purchasing “unscented” or “fragrance free” products be sure they are just that.