Firstly, the concentrate of the blend of the perfume that you choose has a high impact on allergies. If you have intolerance to the ingredients that create the fragrance, then you can control this to a degree. The lowest concentrated blend is found in Eau de Cologne, which has a maximum of 5% pure perfume ingredients. This means that any reaction will be minimal in comparison to the other strength perfumes that are available. The next lowest strength perfume is Eau de Toilette which has a concentration of between 4% and 10% of perfume ingredients. The Eau de Perfume will contain between 8% and 15% pure perfume, whilst any labelled Perfume is the strongest with between 15% and 25% pure strength ingredients.

All perfumes must state the level of potency on the packaging. Make sure you are aware of the strength, and try a lighter compound if you have any adverse reactions. If you have a reaction to all of the above strengths, then you will need to consider other factors.

Another reason behind an allergy or reaction may be the ingredients used in the perfume to create the fragrance. Synthetic perfume sometimes contains synthetic scents. These synthetic scents are created to mimic a natural smell, but can be more easily controlled. Some natural ingredients are evanescent or short lasting, and so synthetics are used to make the perfume have more staying power. They also increase the life span of the perfume, as synthetic ingredients have a longer shelf life. Although the perfume and its ingredients are rigorously tested, there may still be an adverse reaction in some perfume wearers. If this is the case, then look for perfumes that contain natural ingredients only.

It may not be the perfume causing the reaction, but the base ingredients. If you have an allergy to the carrier alcohols in perfume, then natural perfume is your best option. These will be labelled as either `natural` or `botanical` perfume and these are becoming much easier to find. The reason behind this is the rising interest in global environmental and health issues. Natural perfume is oil and water based, and will not contain any synthetic ingredients. This reduces the likelihood of allergic reactions. These have many advantages in that the perfume is often organic and environmentally friendly also. However, the disadvantage is that the perfume does not last as long as the synthetic types; a small price to pay, however, for well being.

Finally, the allergy may actually be due to the natural ingredients. There is a misconception that all natural things are safe and good for you, but in reality this is not necessarily true. Most natural oils in their purest form should not make contact directly with skin, as they would be harmful. If certain pure oils have an adverse effect on you, then make sure you only buy perfume that does not contain them. If you suddenly develop intolerance to a perfume that you have previously used, consider other factors in your environment such as a change in temperature, diet or even washing powder.

The best thing to do when buying perfume is to make sure you are aware of the ingredients, and make sure you buy according to what suits your skin type. If you do suffer a reaction from perfume, consider the elements outlined above and try to determine the cause. Once the cause is found, it can be eliminated by choosing a perfume that is right for you.

I've recently discovered natural perfume as I have family members who are sensitive to synthetic scents and chemicals. Nice to know there is an alternative to the usual types of perfumes, especially when it's available without the alcohol as well.