The best way to prevent a reaction to fragrance is to avoid the offending substance. Discussing the fragrance irritation or allergy with people at work and at home will help to limit exposure to other people’s fragrances.

Careful examination of product labels is important for people with fragrance irritations or allergies. A product labeled “unscented” does not mean it is fragrance-free, but merely that it has no perceptible scent. A fragrance may have been added to the product to mask scent. While such a trace amount of fragrance is unlikely to cause irritation, it may trigger allergic reactions in people with fragrance allergies.

Fragrances added to products to mask scent do not have to be labeled as ingredients. A label that is marked “perfume free” or “fragrance free” is more likely to contain no fragrances. Sensitive people may wish to consult a dermatologist for recommendations on fragrance free skin products, or an allergist for recommendations on avoiding a variety of scented products.

When using a product for the first time, patients may benefit from performing a “patch test.” This involves applying a small amount of the product to a symptom-free section of skin on the forearm, twice a day, for five days. Products that fail to produce symptoms during the testing period are less likely to produce symptoms with continued use. It is important to note that patch tests should only be performed with products that are intended to remain on the skin for an extended period of time, such as lotions and cosmetics. Patients should discuss patch tests with their physician before performing them.

Treatment of fragrance reactions are related to the nature and severity of the symptoms.. Hives, runny nose and itchy eyes may be treated with oral medications, such as antihistamines. These drugs block the work of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions. Breathing problems or asthma-like symptoms may be treated with inhaled bronchodilators, which open breathing passages.

For any skin rashes related to fragrance reactions, it is important for patients to keep the skin clean, dry and protected to avoid further break down of irritated skin and prevent infection. Applications of corticosteroid cream may be helpful in treating rash or itchiness.

The only way to completely prevent a fragrance reaction is for sensitive people to avoid the problem substance. However, avoidance is not always possible. For people with fragrance allergies, allergy shots (immunotherapy) may help reduce or prevent the occurrence of allergy symptoms. Allergy shots increase the patient’s tolerance to a substance through periodic injections of small, but increasing amounts of the substance. They are not effective in treating fragrance irritation or non-allergy related symptoms.

Patients need to be aware of the numerous chemicals that may cause fragrance reaction. Sensitive people should consult with their physicians for recommendations and appropriate medications, as well as ensure adequate ventilation and filtration processes in their homes.

Fragrances can be circulated through air conditioning. Therefore, HEPA filters may be useful for people with fragrance allergies. HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters are highly effective air filters that remove particles from the air by forcing air through screens with microscopic pores. This makes them effective at reducing the number of allergens (substances that trigger allergic reactions) and asthma triggers (e.g., dust, pollen, mold, dander, tobacco smoke) in an enclosed space. Originally designed for industrial, medical and military use, HEPA filters are now being used to clean the air in individual homes and offices.