Article on Fragrance Sensitivity
Fragrance Sensitivity from WebMD
Abstract: Prevalence of fragrance sensitivity in the American population.
Study: Prevalence of fragrance sensitivity in the American population
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I have environmental and chemical sensitivities to certain fumes/airborne particles. My reactions are to fumes/airborne particles that are derived from corn. I have had known allergic reactions to gasoline, cardboard, perfume, cologne, shampoo, deodorant, conditioner, lotion, cigarette smoke, cooking food, chewing gum, toothpaste, and the list goes on and on. To combat these negative reactions, I wear a mask when I leave my home. People stare, some jeer, but their fear-based/lack of understanding-based taunting is better than the alternative, me passing out and relying on the mercy of strangers.
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I once wore masks from a company called “I can breathe.” They are a charcoal filter that fits inside of a pretty lace mask. Unfortunately the mask did not stop every strong smell and I would inevitably end the day sick with swelling, a migraine, and slightly delirious. I no longer wear these particular masks. The elastic makes my ears raw and bleed. I am in the process of developing a new mask. I will keep you all updated.
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I am thinking about trying this new, organic cotton mask from I can breathe or this other mask from Janices.com, until I can muster enough energy to finish my masks. I would insert some of my activated carbon into the mask to give me a little more protection.
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So, friends, if it feels like I’ve been avoiding you…I have. You just smell so purdy.
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Von over on the Con Allergy and Intolerance Facebook group posted this nugget of wisdom and I wanted to include it here:
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“Don’t tell anyone you react to smells. You react to fumes or airborne particles that get into your nose and airway.”
LOL! You just smell so purdy? HA! I wonder if I can use that to avoid a few people? hummm…lol
I’m just now seeing this! LOL! I knew it would make you laugh!
Which mask do you use (the carbon filter with or without the sport kit)?
WITHOUT the sport kit. It was, unfortunately, a waste of money. The exhaust disks, or whatever they are called, did not stay in the mask. I tried to wear them to Dance Trance, Zumba, and they kept falling out. I became so very ill from inhaling all of the perfumes because the mask failed to work properly. I would recommend wearing a double carbon filter when going outside if you are extra sensitive to smells. The lace masks are really pretty and a conversation piece.
That sounds great!!!! Thanks.
Wow… I realized that I comment on here via WordPress and Facebook. Well, it’s asadia from WordPress again. How often do you change your filters and wash you mask?
I have three masks. I washed them once a week, when I was able to leave home. I always keep a spare filter in my purse. When I would notice outside smells, or if I have to pressed the mask into my face because something was making its way through, then I changed my mask.
Thanks!
Anytime!