In dermatology, fragrances rank as one of the most common allergens and the numbers of people with skin allergies to fragrance continue to rise. Given the airways and lungs are generally more susceptible than the skin to allergens, it is prudent to consider that fragrances may also rank high as respiratory allergens. There is no available testing for fragrances as respiratory allergens, so there is no way to determine whether fragrances are the worst offenders. Until such testing is available, the only way to gauge how problematic fragrances are is by clinical and patient accounts. Fragranced products are frequently cited as triggers for asthma, allergies, and other problems.
Testing needs to be developed to determine which fragrance materials are respiratory allergens.
Until problematic materials are pinpointed and are eliminated from use, or listed on the label, the only way to avoid exposure to problematic materials is to avoid all exposures to fragranced products. Further, fragrances are volatile compounds that add to indoor air pollution. In Nova Scotia, fragrance reduction policies are part of an over all effort to reduce exposure to indoor air pollutants of all types from numerous sources. Personal rights are very relative because we do not live in the world alone. When personal rights collide, there has to be an evaluation of the situation.