Plea to family & friends

So, if my arguments for chemical-free living haven't converted you, then perhaps I can plead with your humanity and ask those close to me (family & close friends), as well as those close to other sufferers, to consider fragrance free.  Going completely chemical-free in today's world is impossible. (see Can You Avoid Chemicals) That's where you come in.  Since some exposure is unavoidable, limiting unnecessary chemicals makes life infinitely easier.  You'll not only be helping out me or your loved one, but undoubtedly someone else around you, too, as an estimated 30% of the American population find scented products irritating (1).  It is becoming increasingly prevalent as more and more chemicals are used. Probably more than any other disease, you have the power to help. Our lives are in your hands. Every person who stops using fragranced products is making a difference. 


First of all, what is chemical sensitivity?  MCS is a chronic condition in which a person develops various adverse symptoms from exposure to chemicals in their environment.  Essentially they have difficulties detoxing the toxins out of the organs. The patient's body may then begin to reject common toxins that it is no longer able to filter any more. Chemicals such as those found in perfume, hair spray, lotion, and fabric softener may therefore be rejected by the body, and when the patient is exposed, they begin to have symptoms of inflammation and toxicity such as breathing difficulties, heart rate changes, dizziness, head pains, twitching, "brain fog", and more. The Think Before You Stink website has a great article describing MCS, it's symptoms and causes.  Just click here.


To truly understand how an MCS sufferer lives, read the article "What's It Like to Live with Chemical Sensitivity."  While every chemically sensitive person has a difference experience, all need to make daily boundaries which affect every part of life: home, work, socializing, recreation, transportation etc. Many are so drastically affected that they are at least partially housebound.  It is literally impossible for them to lead a normal life.


So, what can you do?  


Go fragrance-free yourself! Every person who chooses fragrance-free, non-toxic products is making a difference. Fragrance-free is both an opportunity and a privilege. It is a way you can take conscious actions intended to benefit others. It is not a sacrifice; anything that allows us to increase our awareness of and compassion for others is truly a blessing not to be missed. (2)


Here's a quick-start guide:

1. Stop using perfume, cologne, body spray, scented lotions and scented aftershave.  (If you want a little bit of scent, use a watered down organic essential oil, not 'fragrance oils'.)
2. Use only fragrance-free laundry products, including detergent, fabric softener, and
   dryer sheets.  (Many brands offer Free & Clear laundry detergent - Cheer, Tide, etc.)
3. Avoid using air fresheners, candles & Febreze in your home or car. (even if someone doesn't visit your home, these can be absorbed by your clothes & off-gas later)

These simple steps will make a world of difference for people with Chemical Sensitivities as well as for your own health. You will literally be changing people’s lives. For those who want to go completely fragrance-free and make an even bigger difference, see the How to Go Fragrance Free Guide.  




(1):  Journal of Environmental Health), volume 71, number 7
(2): Think Before You Stink