A dermatologist answers “Al-Youm”: Is spraying perfume on the neck a safe habit or a silent danger?
He explained that spraying perfume on the neck is not directly dangerous for healthy people, but it may cause some skin problems in certain groups, such as those with sensitive skin or those suffering from skin diseases. The skin in this area is relatively thin and may react with the components of perfumes, leading to irritation, redness, or even chronic allergies in some cases.
Does perfume reach the thyroid gland?
Regarding the possibility of perfume being absorbed through the skin and reaching the thyroid gland, Dr. Shaouli pointed out that this idea is common but scientifically exaggerated. While the skin does absorb chemicals, it is in very limited quantities, and there is no strong scientific evidence to prove that applying perfume to the neck directly affects thyroid function. However, it cannot be ignored that some perfume ingredients, such as phthalates and synthetic chemicals, may have potential hormonal effects when exposed to them in large quantities and for extended periods, which necessitates caution in excessive use.
He added that perfumes are not a single type but are divided into several categories that differ in the concentration and of essential oils . For example, heavy perfumes contain a high percentage of essential oils, while lighter perfumes are less concentrated and evaporate more quickly. There are also natural perfumes based on plant oils and synthetic perfumes containing chemical compounds that may increase the likelihood of allergic reactions in some people.
He noted that choosing the right type of perfume plays a significant role in minimizing risks. High-quality perfumes with known ingredients are generally safer than unknown or counterfeit products, which may contain harmful substances or not meet health standards.
Perfume tips
Dr. Shaouli concluded his talk with a set of important tips:
Avoid spraying perfume directly on the skin if there is irritation or wounds. It is preferable to test the perfume on a small area of skin before regular use to ensure there is no allergy. It is also advisable to spray perfume on clothes instead of the skin, especially in the neck area, to reduce the chances of skin absorption. It is also important not to overuse perfumes, to stay away from products of unknown origin, and to choose perfumes that are free of harmful chemicals as much as possible. He stressed that awareness of how to use perfumes is no less important than choosing them, as simple daily practices may have cumulative health effects that can be easily avoided through moderate use and conscious choice.
