For years, I couldn’t figure out why I felt lightheaded, congested, or even nauseous after being around certain scents. It wasn’t just an annoyance—it physically affected me. Eventually, I realized that synthetic fragrances were a major trigger.

Now, I have to be extremely careful with perfumes, cleaning products, and even candles. Here’s how I manage my scent sensitivities while still enjoying pleasant smells in my environment.

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Why Synthetic Fragrances Are a Problem for Me

Unlike natural essential oils, synthetic fragrances contain chemical compounds that can trigger allergies, headaches, and respiratory issues. Some of my biggest triggers include:

✔️ Perfumes with gardenia and jasmine – These notes give me instant congestion and headaches.
✔️ Air fresheners and fabric sprays – Loaded with artificial chemicals that irritate my sinuses.
✔️ Candles made with synthetic fragrance oils – Cause lightheadedness and brain fog.
✔️ Heavy chemical cleaners – The fumes make it hard for me to breathe.

Over time, I learned that I had to change my environment to protect my health.

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How I Choose Perfumes Carefully

I still enjoy wearing fragrance, but now I:
✔️ Read perfume notes before buying – Avoid anything with gardenia or jasmine.
✔️ Opt for natural or clean brands – Some perfumes use essential oils instead of synthetics.
✔️ Test before committing – If a scent makes me feel off, I don’t wear it.

Fragrance sensitivity isn’t about disliking certain scents—it’s about how they physically affect me.