Fragrance Free Products a Must-have for Sensitive or Allergic Skin
Products with fragrance irritate my skin and I've been dealing with it for 30 years now. It started in high school. It took awhile to figure out what was causing the redness and irritation. At first, I thought it was a patch of dry skin. Nope. It was an allergic reaction to fragrance. In my soaps, lotions and makeups.
Mostly, makeup, soap and lotions are the culprits, but a few years ago, toothpaste proved to cause a rash, too. Tartar control toothpastes and some whitening toothpastes especially, so recently, I've been sticking with Sensodyne since it doesn't cause irritation.
I've tried so many products and surprisingly, things you think would work just don't. Ivory soap burns my skin terribly, for example. Baby soap smells divine, but I can't use it. Even baby oil makes me break out. Makeup sales reps claim their products to be doctor-tested and therefore safe, but they don't understand that people are allergic or sensitive to many perfectly safe, doctor-tested products.
If you have skin allergies, read on for more information and products I've found to work.
Mostly, makeup, soap and lotions are the culprits, but a few years ago, toothpaste proved to cause a rash, too. Tartar control toothpastes and some whitening toothpastes especially, so recently, I've been sticking with Sensodyne since it doesn't cause irritation.
I've tried so many products and surprisingly, things you think would work just don't. Ivory soap burns my skin terribly, for example. Baby soap smells divine, but I can't use it. Even baby oil makes me break out. Makeup sales reps claim their products to be doctor-tested and therefore safe, but they don't understand that people are allergic or sensitive to many perfectly safe, doctor-tested products.
If you have skin allergies, read on for more information and products I've found to work.
Quick-Find What you Want to Read
Table of Contents
- How to Still Smell Good if Fragrance Irritates your Skin
- Hydrocortisone Creams
- Why Allergy Tests Probably Won't Help
- Laundry Products for People with Skin Issues
- Fragrance-Free Sun Protection
- Fragrance-Free Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock
- Why "Unscented" is not always "Fragrance-free"
- Clinique Fragrance-Free Cosmetics
- Rash and Irritation Treatments
- Eczema? Try going Fragrance-Free
- Fragrance Free Lotions
- Fragrance-Free Soaps and Bath Washes
- Fragrance-free Liquid Hand Soap
- Fragrance-Free Products on eBay
- Share your Favorite Fragrance-Free Products
How to Still Smell Good if Fragrance Irritates your Skin
Using cologne and perfume does not have to be forbidden if you have allergies. For most of us, some areas of our skin is not at all affected by the sensitivity. I can probably use anything on my legs, for instance without harm. I use fragrance-free lotion there mostly because putting fragranced lotions on with my hands means I'll transfer the lotion to my face. And, it's easier to just have all fragrance-free lotions now.
I do however have a few bottles of cologne. I have found that I can use it if I keep it pretty far from my face. So, no behind-the-ear spritzes or neck splashes. But, I can put it on my abdomen and my wrists and it doesn't bother me.
Some fragrances do irritate my nose, particularly if someone wears too much. I can get a sinus headache from highly-fragranced stores that sell potpourri, even. So, I always test a fragrance before buying.
There is one other way you can smell good without causing a breakout--try using the fragrance on your clothing. Be careful as this may harm some fabrics, and definitely use a light touch as fabrics do tend to hold on to scents for a long time. Oh, and I would not put it on dry-clean fabrics, but stick to your washable items. A little spritz on your bra or the cuff of your shirt might just work!
I do however have a few bottles of cologne. I have found that I can use it if I keep it pretty far from my face. So, no behind-the-ear spritzes or neck splashes. But, I can put it on my abdomen and my wrists and it doesn't bother me.
Some fragrances do irritate my nose, particularly if someone wears too much. I can get a sinus headache from highly-fragranced stores that sell potpourri, even. So, I always test a fragrance before buying.
There is one other way you can smell good without causing a breakout--try using the fragrance on your clothing. Be careful as this may harm some fabrics, and definitely use a light touch as fabrics do tend to hold on to scents for a long time. Oh, and I would not put it on dry-clean fabrics, but stick to your washable items. A little spritz on your bra or the cuff of your shirt might just work!
Hydrocortisone Creams
A Quick Remedy for Most Skin Allergies or Dermatitis
This lens has lots of great products for allergy-prone skin care, but it is really hard to prevent reactions 100% of the time. So, I keep cortisone creams on hand for those times. Your doctor can prescribe stronger creams, but often, the OTC versions work fine.
Cortizone-10 Plus Maximum Strength Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Creme Plus Moisturizers, 2-Ounce Tubes (Pack of 3)
Amazon Price: (as of 12/26/2009) 
Kirkland Signature Maximum Strength Hydrocortisone Cream 1% with Aloe (4 X 2 ...
Amazon Price: $6.79 (as of 12/26/2009)
Hydrocortisone Lotion 1%
Amazon Price: $8.51 (as of 12/26/2009)
Lanacort 10 Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Creme - 1/2Oz
Amazon Price: (as of 12/26/2009)
Medique 1gm Hydrocrtisne 25/pk Medique First-aid Refill
Amazon Price: $3.38 (as of 12/26/2009)
Why Allergy Tests Probably Won't Help
Allergy or Sensitivity???
Allergy doctors test for allergic reactions to organic products like trees and weeds and pet dander. They do this by putting some of the substance on your skin and then pricking your skin. If your skin turns red or swells, you are allergic to that item. They also sometimes do allergy tests with blood, but again, they measure reactions to things that naturally occur.
So, if you are having reactions to products you put on your skin, they will test you for these natural allergies, but most causes of skin irritations are "sensitivies" not allergies. That's how doctors distinguish between the two.
To me, the physical reaction is almost the same. A bout of poison ivy is a bit different than a breakout caused by using a scented product on my face, but it is quite similar, too. It is possible (and probably quite common) to have both allergies and sensitivities, by the way. The "sensitivities" are just harder to figure out.
Many things can cause skin rashes, with exzema and allergic reactions being two. Another is the common (catch-all) diagnosis of dermatitis. You can treat a lot of these with OTC or prescription creams, but if you can learn what is causing it, you can prevent a lot of them as well.
So, if you are having reactions to products you put on your skin, they will test you for these natural allergies, but most causes of skin irritations are "sensitivies" not allergies. That's how doctors distinguish between the two.
To me, the physical reaction is almost the same. A bout of poison ivy is a bit different than a breakout caused by using a scented product on my face, but it is quite similar, too. It is possible (and probably quite common) to have both allergies and sensitivities, by the way. The "sensitivities" are just harder to figure out.
Many things can cause skin rashes, with exzema and allergic reactions being two. Another is the common (catch-all) diagnosis of dermatitis. You can treat a lot of these with OTC or prescription creams, but if you can learn what is causing it, you can prevent a lot of them as well.
Laundry Products for People with Skin Issues
Finally, you can find laundry products without added fragrances or dyes or other common allergens.
Attitude 3x Concentrated HE Liquid Laundry Detergent, Fragrance-free, 35-Loads, 35.5-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 6)
Liquid detergent that has no fragrance.
Amazon Price: $57.86 (as of 12/26/2009)
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda (01170)
A cleaning and deoderizing boost for your laundry. Also has about a zillion other uses from toothbrushing to cooking to medicinal uses.
Amazon Price: $3.79 (as of 12/26/2009)
Fragrance-Free Sun Protection
It's getting easier to find!
You really must use sunscreen! Melanoma is a deadly skin cancer and nobody is immune. Plus, the sun ages you very fast. You may not notice until you get older, so just because you can't see sun damage doesn't mean you don't have any.
Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock Lotion, 30 SPF, 4-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 2)
I apply this sunscreen before going swimming or out for a long time, then take along the cooling mist spray for easy reapplying.
Amazon Price: $16.89 (as of 12/26/2009)
Eucerin Extra Protective Moisture Lotion, SPF 30, 4-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 2)
I love this product! It's my go-to daily moisturizer now. This affordable face protection can keep you looking younger if you use regularly. Great under makeup or alone.
Amazon Price: $16.50 (as of 12/26/2009)
Eucerin Everyday Protection Body Lotion, UVA + UVB SPF 15 Protection 13.5 fl oz (400 ml)
Moisturize and protect your skin from the sun with one product. Everyone needs this! Use daily all over.
Amazon Price: $8.84 (as of 12/26/2009)
Neutrogena Lip Moisturizer, SPF 15, .15-Ounce Stick (Pack of 8)
I have these lip balms everywhere. This and plain petroleum jelly are about all I can use without breaking out.
Amazon Price: (as of 12/26/2009)
Fragrance-Free Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock
My new favorite sun protection!
Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock comes in a blue stainless 5.0 ounce aerosol can. It looks like a tiny can of hairspray and it feels quite cool to the touch. It has a small plastic top and is about two inches taller than a soda can. It would fit well into a beach tote, backpack or even a medium-sized fanny pack or waist pack.This sunblock comes in SPF 30 and 45. The front of the can tells you the SPF level and indicates that it contains "helioplex", which is Neutrogena-developed technology that combines a uva sunblock with a uvb sunblock and makes them more stable and effective. This technology makes the sunscreen last longer without reapplying.
And, there is an endorsement from the American Cancer Society which is the American Cancer Society logo with "Help Block out Skin Cancer" in blue letters. Skin cancer is a very real issue, and melanoma is deadly. Sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, and one that is relatively easy to prevent. You should learn the signs, visit your dermatologist to check for skin cancers, and be vigilant about using sunscreens such as this one.
It is very cool when you apply it. For this reason, I think it would be great to take along to the beach or pool or on a walk, hike or picnic. You can reapply as needed just by spraying it on. Plus, you get a nice cooling blast!
The can does spray at all angles, but mine is still fairly full. It goes on pretty evenly, and it is clear, but visible, so that you can double-check and either rubs it in or re-spray if you missed any spots. So, this is an easy sunscreen to use by yourself. I can get most every area of my body that is exposed covered with the spray.
And, you do not have to rub it in. I often spray my forearms and chest before walking and I just spray and go. It takes a couple of seconds, which is much faster than rubbing in a lotion or cream.
I do not use this on my face because I am allergic to so many things that I stick with my Clinique sunblock there, so I cannot address the "running into eyes" issue. It does seem to stay put on my arms, though.
When first spraying the sunblock, there is an aerosol smell and the mist is very fine and gets into the air, so be careful spraying it around children or people with lung conditions. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area.
There is no coconutty or beachy smell to this product, which I really like. Its smell is just barely noticeable and is a very light, clean smell.
One added benefit of using this is that I notice a slight sheen on my skin, sort of like you get with body oil, but not as shiny. It makes your legs look great!
And, the sunscreen works very well. Since I've been using it, the brown spots on my forearms seem to be fading, and I am pretty sure I've not added any sun damage this year.
Purchase from Amazon.com: Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock SPF 45 5.0 oz
. Why "Unscented" is not always "Fragrance-free"
Some products declare themselves "unscented" and list "fragrance" in the ingredients. How on earth? Seems unscented refers to the smell--meaning it doesn't smell. Occasionally, manufacturers will add a scent to make the odor of something neutral.
So, you can still have a reaction even though it says "unscented" right there on the label. Some people are sensitive to smells--i.e., they have breathing difficulties or other reactions to smells. That's why unscented products are popular. If there's no "fragrance-free" option, I will read the label and if it doesn't say "fragrance", I will try it. Sometimes it works for me, sometimes not.
You may be allergic to other ingredients in lotions, soaps or makeup. Most of these products will probably still work for you.
So, you can still have a reaction even though it says "unscented" right there on the label. Some people are sensitive to smells--i.e., they have breathing difficulties or other reactions to smells. That's why unscented products are popular. If there's no "fragrance-free" option, I will read the label and if it doesn't say "fragrance", I will try it. Sometimes it works for me, sometimes not.
You may be allergic to other ingredients in lotions, soaps or makeup. Most of these products will probably still work for you.
Clinique Fragrance-Free Cosmetics
I've used Clinique since college and still line up during Bonuse week! If fragrance is a problem for you, give Clinique products a try.
I also love that if you buy something and don't like it or it doesn't work for you, you can return it. That's a good thing for foundation, especially. Just keep the packaging and the receipt.
Here are some of my must-haves.
I also love that if you buy something and don't like it or it doesn't work for you, you can return it. That's a good thing for foundation, especially. Just keep the packaging and the receipt.
Here are some of my must-haves.
Clinique Superdefense Triple Action Moisturizer SPF 25 (Normal to Dry Skin)-- 35ml/1.2oz Lot 5 deluxe sample unboxed
In winter when you need a little extra moisture, or for those with very dry skin, this is rich and provides great protection from the elements.
Amazon Price: (as of 12/26/2009)
Clinique Quickliner for Eyes 01 New Black (Unboxed)
Love these quickliners. Easy to apply. Great for smudging to get the smokey eye look, but also just a good eyeliner.
Amazon Price: $12.00 (as of 12/26/2009)
CLINIQUE DRAMATICALLY DIFFERENT LOTION w/PUMP-4.2oz-NIB
The everyday moisturizer. It's not too greasy, but it does protect.
Amazon Price: $29.99 (as of 12/26/2009)
Rash and Irritation Treatments
Sometimes, even if you're quite careful, you can get an irritation or a rash. It could be from a product or the weather or maybe you hugged your aunt and her perfume got on your face. Regardless, you'll want to fix it quickly. Here are my favorite healing products.
Cortizone-10 Plus Maximum Strength Hydrocortisone Anti-Itch Creme Plus Moisturizers, 2-Ounce Tubes (Pack of 3)
This has more cortisone than other creams. Use it for really bad rashes.
Amazon Price: (as of 12/26/2009)
Clinique CX Redness Relief Cream 15ml 0.5oz Unboxed
Clinique used to have a product that was great for allergic breakouts, but they discontinued it several years ago. I haven't tried this yet, but I'm hoping to soon.
Amazon Price: (as of 12/26/2009)
Eczema? Try going Fragrance-Free
Eczema can have many causes, but one of the easiest to treat is removing products with fragrance. They are ubiquitous, so you must learn to read labels. If you see "fragrance" listed, avoid the product. That's not a 100% guarantee that it won't contain fragrance or even other subjects you might be sensitive too, but it's a good start.
Start with using fragrance-free soap and lotion. Fragrance-free makeup is also helpful if you have facial eczema.
You might also need to use fragrance-free detergents and fabric softeners, which are becoming more available now.
Babies often get exzema, too. Try to find fragrance-free baby soaps and shampoos and lotions for a baby that has skin rashes. Some people have ezcema as a result of food allergies, too.
Cortisone creams are good for relieving mild exzema and there are other prescription medicines you can get from your doctor.
Start with using fragrance-free soap and lotion. Fragrance-free makeup is also helpful if you have facial eczema.
You might also need to use fragrance-free detergents and fabric softeners, which are becoming more available now.
Babies often get exzema, too. Try to find fragrance-free baby soaps and shampoos and lotions for a baby that has skin rashes. Some people have ezcema as a result of food allergies, too.
Cortisone creams are good for relieving mild exzema and there are other prescription medicines you can get from your doctor.
Fragrance Free Lotions
For the rest of your body.
I keep these lotions on my desk, kitchen sink, bathroom vanity and my nightstand. Plus, I have mini bottles in my purse & car.
Neutrogena Fragrance-Free Norwegian Formula Body Emulsion Intensive Therapeutic Lotion, Packaging May Vary,10.5-Ounce Pumps (Pack of 2)
Very rich. One of my winter favorites.
Amazon Price: (as of 12/26/2009)
Cetaphil Fragrance Free Moisturizing Lotion, 16-Ounce Bottles (Pack of 2)
Cetaphil is great stuff and I'm very happy they come in fragrance-free versions. Try their cleansing lotions, too.
Amazon Price: $25.95 (as of 12/26/2009)
Fragrance-Free Soaps and Bath Washes
Aveeno Fragrance Free Moisturizing Bar for Dry Skin, With Natural Colloidal Oatmeal, 3.5-Ounce Bars (Pack of 8)
I've been using Aveeno for years, too. This is very soothing and is great for kids with chicken pox or poison ivy or any skin irritation.
Amazon Price: (as of 12/26/2009)
Fragrance-free Liquid Hand Soap
I have looked high and low in local grocery stores and discount stores and there are about a million different kinds of liquid hand soap. With a million different fragrances.
I once found fragrance-free liquid hand soap by Method at Target, and I loved it, but I can't find it anymore. What's up with that?
And, whenever I am on the other side of town, there is a health food store that sells Kiss My Face fragrance free hand soap.
Dove's fragrance-free (sensitive) bar soap is good, too, but I do love the convenience of the pumps. They are far less messy--soap melts! Which I don't mind in the bathtub soap dish, but on the vanity, it annoys me.
Fortunately, there are alternatives online, but what about folks who don't like to order online? Wake up, retailers!
I once found fragrance-free liquid hand soap by Method at Target, and I loved it, but I can't find it anymore. What's up with that?
And, whenever I am on the other side of town, there is a health food store that sells Kiss My Face fragrance free hand soap.
Dove's fragrance-free (sensitive) bar soap is good, too, but I do love the convenience of the pumps. They are far less messy--soap melts! Which I don't mind in the bathtub soap dish, but on the vanity, it annoys me.
Fortunately, there are alternatives online, but what about folks who don't like to order online? Wake up, retailers!
Fragrance-Free Products on eBay
You can get some great deals on fragrance-free products on eBay sometimes. Be sure to buy from reputable sellers and make sure they are new products!
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand by
Share your Favorite Fragrance-Free Products
Do you have a favorite fragrance-free product? Share it here--I'm always looking for great producs.
submit
-
Reply
- BigGirlBlue BigGirlBlue Nov 28, 2008 @ 9:33 pm
- A new fragrance free lotion I've been using is Kiss Your Face olive oil and aloe. Thank you for pointing out the difference between unscented and fragrance free.
-
Reply
- Amy Amy Sep 26, 2008 @ 8:25 am
- Very helpful! I also suffer from sensitivity to fragrances, and often have trouble finding good fragrance free products. BareMinerals makeup also works great for me.
-
Reply
- Jeanne Jeanne Sep 1, 2008 @ 4:25 pm
- I used Arm & Hammer fragrance free deodorant and find it works well.
-
Reply
- raghuvarun123 raghuvarun123 Jul 25, 2008 @ 1:59 am
- I saw all you products which are displayed. very nice lens.. thanks for sharing this info..
Raghu
home remedies for genital herpes
-
Reply
- Gemstones-guy Gemstones-guy Jul 24, 2008 @ 9:38 am
- how can we select the suitable product for our skin? please tell me.
Saipratap
Tanzanite
- Load More
by Deborah
Deborah Crawford has spent tons of money and years in agony (okay, discomfort and frustration) trying to find products to clean and care for her sensi... (more)
Explore related pages
udder balm
- Dairy farmers have used Udder Balm or Bag Balm for their cows and also discovere...
No Blemish No Acne Forever- Almost everyone experiences skin blemishes from time to time. Some people are lu...
Sensitive Skin Care- Is your skin often irritated, red, inflamed, itchy, or sore? Do you have trouble...
- Rosacea Information
- Rosacea is a chronic condition pf the skin that has touched milllions of people'...
You Too Can Live Eczema Free | Try Eczema Treatment Naturally!- In this Article you will find some answers to questions such as: W...
Lose those rough dry elbows- I market a product for people who are tired of their rough dry elbows, like I us...
