Is it just me, or is there anyone else who is discovering changes in their bodies as they get older? I know that things like getting a little saggy in places, and getting wrinkles, and getting gray hair are common, and to be expected. But what about things like being more sensitive to scents, like those in everyday products such as laundry detergent, fabric softener, even dishwashing detergent? Or to other additives in products that you use? What about your own “scent” changing?
I have been writing here for a while now about how I have been itching, and have tried everything I can think of to help with that. I have been to the doctor several times, and tried many MANY different medications, both prescription and over the counter, to try to get relief for that. But lately, I have noticed other things, and most notable among those other things, is that I “smell” different to myself.
Y’all tell me if you think that is weird, or even if it is just TMI, but like I said a while back when I was writing about my itchiness, if I don’t write about it, I will never find out if it is just me or if this is something that happens with everyone. While this may be another “taboo” topic because I have not heard anyone else talk about it, it may also just be “me”, but I will not know the difference unless it is discussed. Right?
I haven’t used perfumes or scented products for myself in more than 20 years, mostly because when I did, I got headaches. Over the years, that also came to include laundry detergents, candles, and most other household products. If there is an unscented option, that is the one I choose, and if there is not one, then I tend to just not use whatever product it is. More and more, any products I buy for myself tend to be sensitive skincare ones. I just can’t seem to tolerate products that have any chemically added scents.
So, tell me, ladies, what products do you avoid because of added scents? What reactions do you have to everyday products? And what changes have you experienced as you get older?
I avoid my husband. He stinks.. But not to the rest of the world, just me.
BUT THEN AGAIN…… I am pregnant, and everything you’re saying fits me to a T…. and I know your symptoms are for a different reason!
Detergents, deodorants, perfume……
I use ECover now for detergent.. It’s fantastic. I have to use unscented deodorant. I also have to use essential oils that I can stand instead of perfumes.
I clean with vinegar, because it cleans and the scent isn’t perfumey and it goes away!
HUGS!!!!!!!
Haven’t had any changes to scents as I’ve aged…only a tolerance to stupid people…not stupid, just ignorant. People who choose not to realize that they are not the only people on this earth and that there are others that should be considered. There are times when some folks wear so much perfume/cologne that you can smell them from a mile away. Others need showers immediately. Then again there are some who just have an odor about them, but that is not what you were asking.
So, again there have been no scent changes for me, only my tolerance of people who have no consideration for others…
Itchiness can be a sign of kidney disease. Not that I think you have that, (and definitely hope not) but it’s something to point out. My skin and hair are getting really dry as I get older, not to mention the lack of flexibility and sore body!
I’ve always said you can’t fight time or gravity, but….. I keep trying.
I too look for unscented products, not always easy to find. The only recent changes is in reactions to bug bites. Not that we get a lot of bugs up here. But I really swell up these days when get bit and itch on the bite. I’ve tried numerous products that mostly don’t stink but the itch doesn’t go away for weeks.
Have to ask Mike if I smell different. 😉
Now granted I’m not really that old but I do find scent bothering me lately. I used to wear perfume on a daily basis, but now it gives me a headache…and forget about going done the laundry aisle in the supermarket…holy stinkiness!
The only time scents bother me is when I’m preggers! Other than that I have only noticed wrinkles and sagging lol!
Currently dry, parched lips is driving me crazy! I think I drink plenty of water…I don’t feel thirsty. I’m looking for any and all help I can get! I too used to wear daily perfume but no longer.
I’ve always had sensitive skin so finding natural products has been on my preference for a long time. I think all these changes are normal with aging.
I stopped using heavily perfumed products years ago…headaches and dermatitis. Then I started getting hoarse around certain scents (some perfumes, cleaning products and any kind of smoke).
Someone mentioned kidney disease, there is also liver disease and diabetes that produce itching. Hoping you have had your blood sugar tested recently!!
Since I have AEC syndrome, I generally avoid scented products and stick to sensitive skin care items, anyway. I am only 35, so I don’t know if I qualify to answer this question, but I do notice things changing. And I am not sure I like it.
I drive my husband crazy when going to the store, I open and smell products before I buy them. For dry skin when we lived in AZ. years ago, I would apply baby oil while standing in the shower after bathing, then get out and dry off. I didn’t feel oily that way…..but I don’t like doing it in the RV shower, so I have to do the smell test before I buy lotions.
Have always been sensitive to perfumes. and if I smell someone coming and they are a hugger, I usually step back cause I don’t want their scent lingering on me.
I, too, buy unscented products whenever possible and use sensitive skin type products. I haven’t worn perfume in ages because it gives me a headache too. And like a couple of the other posters, I have less tolerances for those who feel they must bathe in a bottle of stinky perfume. I used to hate those magazines with perfume samples. Ick!
Not enough info – just general itchy skin or only in those real sensitive areas ? I used to have dry skin only in the winter but now have it all year long – worse in the winter but have started using lotion in the summer too and I’m 57. My problem is my mouth lately – I was always the last one to speak up but now I voice my opinion to anyone within listening distance – it’s like I’ve lost my ‘shut the — up filter’ ha ha. As for scents I’ve always have avoided scented products that hasn’t changed . Hope you find out what is causing your discomfort – lots of good advice here – some docs don’t take just one common symptom seriously but sometimes it really is a sign of something serious going on. Take care and hope you feel better soon.
The itching I have is in specific areas, like under my arms and breasts,and in my groin. It is worse when it is warm outside. I have tried several prescription ointments, pills, and powders, but still have the itching. It started suddenly about 2 years ago, and has not ceased since then. I have written about this several times on my blog, just search for “itching” and you should find those posts.
I have noticed the smell thing personally and my knees. Oh dear Lord I sound like a creaking door walking around the house and I can hardly stomach the smell of Matt’s coffee in the morning. Once you hit 21, there really is not much benefit to getting a year older lol.