11/15/2025
We need to have an honest conversation about workplace fragrances.
That coworker's favorite perfume or aftershave might smell amazing to them, but for people with scent sensitivities, it can trigger debilitating headaches, dizziness, nausea, watery eyes, and even hives. This isn't about being "difficult" or "oversensitive"—it's about recognizing that fragrance molecules linger in the air, cling to fabrics, and accumulate in poorly ventilated spaces, making work genuinely impossible for some people.
The solution is simpler than you think: fragrance-free workplace policies. Most people are understanding and willing to adjust once they realize their favorite scent is affecting their colleagues' health and productivity. It's not about taking away personal expression—it's about creating an inclusive, accessible environment where everyone can breathe comfortably.
At Corpus Christi Allergy, we help identify fragrance sensitivities and provide strategies for navigating shared spaces. Compassion costs nothing but means everything.
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