Does perfume really have a bad effect on the skin?
Most of us use perfume and whenever we apply it, we spray it on the neck after the wrist. But do you know that applying it on the neck can cause you skin problems? Yes, this is true.
When? Dr Chinjitha T Davis When he was asked this question, he replied, 'Yes, spraying perfume on the neck can spoil the colour.' This means that your skin may have pigmentation problems. But why does this happen? Let us tell you.
Why does the color change happen?
There can be many reasons for the change in colour. According to Dr. there are three reasons for this-
- Light-sensitive- Many fragrances contain ingredients that can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, called photosensitizing agents. When the fragrance part comes into contact with the sun's rays, it can cause inflammation, which can lead to hyperpigmentation.
- irritation and allergic reactions Some ingredients in perfumes, such as alcohol and synthetic fragrances, can cause skin irritation and allergies. Constant irritation or inflammation causes melanocytes (cells responsible for pigmentation) to produce more melanin, resulting in darker spots.
- Lichen can lead to autoimmune skin diseases such as planus pigmentosus, which can cause pigmentation in the skin.
How can this be prevented?
The expert was asked, 'How can we prevent this? Or can we deal with this problem by using natural alternatives to deodorants and perfumes?' In response to this, the doctor suggested four methods.
- Avoid applying directly- Don't spray perfume directly on the neck or parts of the body that are often exposed to sunlight. Instead, spray it on clothing or less exposed areas and apply petroleum jelly on the rest of the skin.
- Patch testing- Before using a new perfume, do a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any reactions.
- Sun protection- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen on the area where the perfume has been applied to prevent phototoxic reactions. Also, use an umbrella or hat to avoid the sun.
- Natural alternatives- Natural deodorants and perfumes may reduce the risk of irritation and photosensitivity (but can still cause it) because they often do not contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. However, it is important to make sure that these natural products do not contain any allergens or photosensitizing agents.
- Ingredients such as essential oils may be less irritating, but should still be tested for individual allergies, and proper sun protection should be used. These natural alternatives also require a patch test.
How to treat color change?
The remedies for discoloration of neck due to fragrance are as follows:
- Topical treatment- Prescription creams containing ingredients like kojic acid, alpha arbutin, niacinamide, etc. can help lighten hyperpigmented areas. If there is no improvement, consult a dermatologist. Do not apply steroid creams or hydroquinone creams without medical advice as these may cause local side effects.
- Exfoliation- Regular, careful exfoliation with mild alpha hydroxy acids etc. can help remove pigmented skin cells if only pigmentation is left. However, if there is inflammation, exfoliation can make it worse.
- Laser Therapy- Laser treatments such as Q-switched laser or fractional laser can effectively reduce pigmentation.
- chemical peels- Dermatologists may recommend chemical peels that can improve pigmentation.
- Sun protection- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF on the affected areas to prevent further darkening of the skin and aid the healing process.
How long does it take to heal?
The time it takes for discoloration to resolve can vary depending on the individual's skin type and treatment method. With consistent and proper treatment, improvements can often be seen within a few weeks to months.
However, it can take several months to a year to heal completely. To prevent it from recurring, continued protection from the sun's rays is important.
It is always advisable to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice and treatment to properly manage skin disorders.