"If everyone quit wearing perfumes and colognes, I wouldn’t have enough patients to continue my practice." That statement was made by Dr. Jay S. Gartner, a board certified allergist (allergy and asthma specialist) to one of his patients who is a member of United Church of God.

After hearing of the statement, Don Hooser, pastor of the Dallas South congregation, asked for an interview with Dr. Gartner. The following excerpts are from the interview at Dr. Gartner’s clinic in Duncanville TX. (He uses "perfume" to refer to all fragrance lotions.)

"Allergies are more prevalent in industrialized nations… Many people have allergies to certain scents, both synthetic and natural, such as some flowers. Others have not allergies, but a sensitivities, to various fragrance compounds, and their reactions often are more debilitating than those with allergies… Such sensitivities are not new, but they are becoming more widespread… Perfume has become more popular because it is more affordable and is associated with sexuality, image, and attraction. And with new technologies, perfumes have become more potent.

"A contributing factor is the total amount of all airborne substances a person is breathing. When a person is inhaling fumes from carpeting, fabrics, cleansers, perfumes, etc., it all adds up. Each person has a different threshold of tolerance. When that threshold is passed, he experiences symptoms… Probably very few people have zero symptoms when around perfumes…

"One of the most common complaints I hear is what people suffer in their churches. I think it is because when so many people who are dressed up and wearing perfumes crowd together, there is a high concentration of perfumes in the air. I hear about different approaches by the clergy. Some ignore the problem, some establish a perfume section and a non-perfume section, some address the subject in a sermon and suggest that the parishioners not wear perfume. Adequate air conditioning and ventilation and air purifiers help some. High ceilings and lots of open space certainly help to keep down the concentrations in the air."

Dr. Gartner mentioned that many businesses require their employees not to wear perfumes because some employees experience adverse reactions to them. (Some post signs that say "Fragrance-Free Zone.") He said this especially is common in clinics, hospitals, and doctors' offices where patients are present who have enough health problems already without inhaling something that might worsen their symptoms.

 

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