Derm DMs: Can You Be Allergic to Perfume?

We've all sniffed perfumes we didn't like, whether it's a colleague's cologne or a candle that just doesn't smell right.

For some people, fragrances can cause physical reactions (such as redness, itching, and burning) when they come into contact with the skin. To learn more about perfume-induced skin allergies, we asked Dr. Tamara Lazic Strugar, NYC-based board certified dermatologist and Skincare.com consultant, for her opinion.

Is it possible to be allergic to perfume?

According to Dr. Lazic, fragrance allergies are not uncommon. If you are prone to skin allergies such as eczema, you may be more susceptible to fragrance allergies. “For those with a compromised skin barrier, repeated exposure to fragrances can cause an allergic reaction that, once developed, can affect you for the rest of your life,” says Dr. Lazic.

What does an allergic reaction to perfume look like?

According to Dr. Lazic, an allergic reaction to perfume is usually characterized by a rash in the area where the perfume has been in contact (such as the neck and arms), which can sometimes swell and form blisters. “Fragrance allergies look and act like poison ivy,” she says. "It causes a similar rash with direct contact and appears days after contact with the allergen, making it difficult to identify the culprit."

What Causes an Allergic Reaction to Perfume?

Perfume allergies can be caused by synthetic or natural fragrance ingredients. “Beware of ingredients like linalool, limonene, flavor blend I or II, or geraniol,” says Dr. Lazik. She also warns that natural ingredients aren't always safer for sensitive skin—they can flare up too.

What to do if you have an allergic reaction to perfume

If you think you are having a reaction to your fragrance, stop using the product immediately. If the rash doesn't go away, see a dermatologist. “Having a patch test with a dermatologist can help diagnose what you might be allergic to, and they can give you advice on what to avoid and how to do it,” Dr. Lazic says.

If you are allergic, should you avoid all flavored foods?

According to Dr. Lazic, “If you are allergic to any perfume allergen, ideally you should use all fragrance-free products for skin care, hair care and even in everyday life, such as detergents, air fresheners and scented candles.” Dr. Lazic says. . "You should also consider talking to your partner or other roommates about scents if you're in close contact with them."