Is Your Perfume Killing You?

 

           In my “pre-aromatherapy” days, I loved wearing cologne, perfume, and scented body lotions.  I never really gave much thought to what I was subjecting my body to.  By the time I became an aromatherapist, I was actually repelled by artificial fragrances and most commercial perfumes.  What I once thought smelled wonderful, now became offensive.  After learning how chemicals enter our bodies, I became alarmed at the thought of putting those synthetically derived, often harmful, chemicals into my body. 

            Until the 20^th century, perfumes were created from natural animal and plant materials … and then, we somehow thought it was a good idea to being using synthetics simply to create more affordable products which could be sold to a wider audience. 

           Because of a loophole protecting trade secrets, companies can avoid listing ingredients, many of which are potentially harmful.  Some common dangerous ingredients found in cologne, perfume, etc. are acetone, benzaldehyde, methylene chloride, as well as a dozen or more synthetic chemicals derived from petroleum.  These chemicals can cause allergic reactions, create hormone disruption, cause cancer, and have the potential to cause many other health related issues.  Alarmingly, there are actually more harmful chemicals in artificial fragrances than in cigarettes!  Men and women are actually poisoning themselves by using colognes, perfumes, and body lotions. 

           But …. this does not mean that you can’t wear fragrance safely and responsibly!  I enjoy creating custom “signature scents” with my clients using essential oils.  I generally suggest making a hard perfume and then a coordinating rollerball, for on-the-go touch-ups.  What I love about creating individual blends is that each client can choose the aromas which she or he loves, and have a beautiful and unique “perfume”.  The blending possibilities are endless, and it is fun to help clients select the perfect base, middle and top notes for their custom scent.  Not only is creating your own scent a healthy alternative, but it is more economical as well.  An appointment to create your own blend is $35, which includes a rollerball.  Hard salve type scents are $20, and when you need to reorder your rollerball, the cost is usually in the $25 range, depending on your oil selections.  One on one appointments are available, or you can invite a few friends and have a “blending party”, which is a really fun way to spend times with friends and/or family. 

            Stop smelling like everyone else, stop poisoning yourself, and enjoy the experience of crafting and wearing your own scent!