Today's Natural Medicine Update about chemicals found in our bodies reminded me of a theme/goal I've had for some time...that goal is the absence of fragrance. It's partly out of necessity, I don't tolerate perfumes well. I've discovered that most homes and people are a collection of artificial fragrances, one layer on top of another. It is a challenge to keep my home and myself unscented.

1. The first challenge is to have no unpleasant smells to cover up, you know, doing dishes often, cleaning, taking out the garbage/diapers, putting wet laundry in the dryer soon enough, venting cooking smells, etc. etc. Aside from general hygeine, the diet helps me with Body odor, and I've heard similar experiences from other types as well.

2. The next step is finding unscented products. This is getting easier than it used to be: laundry detergent, dryer sheets (or better, unscented liquid fabric softener, and I don't even tolerate that so I skip it entirely), body soaps, facial soaps, shampoos (that's still a challenge), hair styling products (do unscented versions exist? I just let my hair flop like it was born to), deodorant (there are some naturally fragranced types that are nice, usually the only 'scent' I wear), then there is the fragrance in cleaning chemicals, where the options are Health Food Store products or homemade, but I'm no expert on that one yet. I do recommend DHC skincare products, almost all of their products are unscented, other than the natural fragrances of the ingredients, and they work better than most natural brands I have tried. www.dhccare.com I'm not an expert on the chemicals in skincare products, I just know what works for me, and my body speaks to me very assertively in most cases! Their shampoos and conditioners are a godsend for my sensitive scalp, and the only type I have tried that consistently gives good results, like a salon brand, but without the irritation. And believe me, I've tried a boat-load of shampoos. Their Acerola Lotion (toner) is also a favorite of mine, my skin just drinks it up like I drink my pineapple juice.

3. The third step, once you've learned to appreciate a freedom from fragrances, is to learn to tolerate other's bondage to them I'm still learning this one, and as I become healthier, it doesn't bother me so much to be around layers of fragrance...as long as there's good ventilation! My family has been good to avoid using scented candles when I visit, as those really get to me. I used to use them myself, then I learned that I breathe much better without them lit. I also recently heard a warning about fire safety with little plug in air fresheners, so keep that in mind if you use those.

There are a number of natural fragrances to choose from, as well. Essential oils are a healthy way to enjoy your need for aromatherapy. I'm not an expert in their use, but do enjoy them from time to time, as they relax and clear my mind, whereas the artificial stuff does the opposite.

My question is, will wearing make-up ever go out of fashion? I probably wear it 2 or 3 times a year, and just a little at that. I never paint my nails, as it seemed to make them soft and wimpy. I don't suppose that will ever catch on, but I can always hope!