Meeting Induced Headaches

Most people will only have a mild headache and no idea why but those with MCS know exactly why they feel so sick after a large meeting.  If you're viewing this blog site then you probably have some idea about the problems incurred with attending any event with a large number of people such as a meeting or a concert when you have Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). 

Everyone normally has at least six scents on them from soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, detergent, and fabric softener.  Multiply that by the number of people attending the event and you get some idea of the scale of the toxins you're being exposed to.  Many of the commonly used products include ingredients listed on the toxic waste list and people unknowingly wear these next to their skin. 

For someone with MCS, a headache during or after a large meeting may only be one of the problems.  Other symptoms include nausea, dizziness, difficulty breathing, and the most dangerous - rapid or irregular heart beat.  Wearing a mask or changing seats sometimes just won't relieve the problem, particularly if the air circulation is poor.  One person wearing clothing highly scented from fabric softener can make everyone around them sick without even realizing it.

Every time this happens to me I swear I'll never put myself at risk again but along comes a concert I just can't miss and hello migraine.

Products Safe for MCS

I've found these products are safe for someone with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) to use at home.

Free and Clear Laundry Detergent - All, Tide, and Cheer
Free and Clear Fabric Softener - Downy, Publix
Laundry Stain Remover - Shout Free
Dishwashing Liquid - Ultra Palmolive Pure + Clear
Dishwasher - Seventh Generation Natural Dishwasher Detergent Packs Free & Clear
Bathroom Cleaner - Earth Fare Home Free & Clear
Floor Clearer - Simply Floored from Earth Fare
Fragrance Free Shampoo & Conditioner - Earth Sciences Pure Essentials from Earth Fare
Deodorant - Speed Stick Power Unscented (men) and Arid XX Unscented (women)
Makeup - Clinique (unfortunately they also sell perfume so beware buying in person)

I'll add more to the list as I find them.  Let me know if you've found something unscented that you've had good experience using. 

I don't often go into stores since quite a few put scent in the air conditioning system so my choices are somewhat limited.