Do you want to interact with chemically sensitive friends, relatives, and clients without causing problems for them? Here are some ways to help.

• Avoid fabric softeners, hair spray, insect repellent, and dry cleaned clothes. Avoid being around the chemically sensitive if you have a fresh perm.
  
  
• Avoid scented products on yourself or your clothing. Omit perfumes, colognes, and after-shave lotion. Most shampoos, conditioners, hair gels and laundry detergents are scented; ask your friend or client what kind to use. Avoid lotions, cosmetics, sunscreen, and deodorant unless you know they are fragrance-free.
  
  
• Avoid idling your vehicle’s engine any longer than necessary. The exhaust is toxic to many.
  
  
• Be aware that individual tolerances vary. Listen to your friend or client and believe it!
  
  

IF A CHEMICALLY SENSITIVE PERSON IS COMING TO YOUR BUSINESS OR HOME...

• Tell client ahead of time if there has been any recent painting, remodeling, or pesticide application. Use integrated pest management instead of standard treatment with toxic chemicals.
  
  
• Eliminate air fresheners and fragrance-emitting devices. The ingredients are toxic.
  
  
• Avoid strong cleaning products like Clorox, Lysol, and Pine Sol.
  
  
• Electrical appliances can be troublesome. If possible, turn off fluorescent lights and non-essential electrical equipment upon request, or meet with client in another location.
  
  

IF YOU ENTER THE HOME OF A CHEMICALLY SENSITIVE CLIENT OR FRIEND...

• Do not visit such a person if you have recently used pesticides or solvents, or smoked cigarettes. (The chemicals cling to your shoes, hair, skin, and clothing.)
  
  
• Air fresheners in your car or home contain chemicals that cling to your clothing and hair.
  
  
• Wear older clothing washed in fragrance-free soap.
  
  
• If you are cleaning in a client’s home, use only the client’s cleaning products.
  
  

Please help keep it chemical-free. Thank you for your cooperation!