Fragrances can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption. The first indicator of a Fragrance Oils irritation or allergy is usually a skin rash after the use of a perfume, cream, or lotion. Reactions can also take other forms, including: hives; nausea; dizziness; headache; itchy skin, eyes, and nose; runny nose; wheezing; coughing; eczema; difficulty breathing; sore throat; asthma attacks or asthma–like symptoms; and strange tastes in the mouth. The severity of symptoms varies from one individual to another. Symptoms can show up over a wide time range from a few minutes to seven to ten days (Allergy Health Online, 2007).
