It has become a standard part of our routine: a touch of perfume to make ourselves feel extra fresh and nurtured. This is why we love to wear our perfume all year around, even in the summer. A lovely perfume should not be missing in the suitcase to a sunny destination. But did you know that it is actually not recommended to wear perfume when going out in the sun? In this article, we explain why and how you can still safely enjoy your favorite scent.
Phototoxic Reaction: What is it and how does it work?
The fragrances we love so much often contain essential oils and alcohol that can cause a phototoxic reaction. When you apply perfume directly to the skin and then expose yourself to sunlight, this phototoxic reaction can occur. Phototoxicity simply means that a particular substance (in this case, ingredients in the perfume) reacts to sunlight, which can lead to skin damage. The effects can range from mild irritation to discoloration and sometimes even burns.
If a phototoxic reaction occurs, you may notice symptoms such as:
+ Redness and inflammation of the skin
+ Burning or stinging feeling
+ Skin rash or blisters
+ Hyperpigmentation, leading to dark spots on the skin
Enjoying the sun safely
Although it is tempting to keep wearing your usual perfume, it is wise to leave it on the shelf on summer days. Still want to smell good? Thankfully, there are alternative fragrances made specifically for summer with little or no alcohol. At Nourished, we have wonderful natural perfumes from Bodha. These perfumes are much more gentle to the skin and alcohol-free. Nevertheless, it is recommended that you do not spray perfume on your skin at all when you go out in the sun.
Rather than spraying perfume directly on your skin, you can apply it to your hair or clothing. This significantly reduces the risk of a phototoxic reaction, and it still keeps you smelling great. Last but not least, always use sunscreen protection when going out in the sun. This not only helps against phototoxic reactions, but also protects your skin from other forms of damage caused by UV rays.
Do you have any questions about the Bodha perfumes or the best way to protect yourself from sun exposure? Please contact us via web chat, email or Instagram.
