Living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) or other invisible illnesses means we don’t just get “irritated” by certain smells or substances—our entire system gets overwhelmed.
For me, it started with fragrance. Then I realized:
It wasn’t just perfume or air fresheners.
It was everything.
The Daily Chemical Load No One Talks About
Most people walk through life surrounded by chemicals and never feel it. But for people like us? It’s a constant assault.
Here are just a few common sources of toxic overload:
- Laundry detergents (fragrance, optical brighteners, chemical surfactants)
- Dryer sheets (one of the most toxic household items—seriously)
- Cleaning sprays (even the “green” ones are often greenwashed)
- Lotions, shampoos, body wash (filled with synthetic fragrance and preservatives)
- Scented candles and plug-ins (VOC bombs)
- Pesticides, lawn chemicals, building materials, car exhaust…
- New clothes, furniture, carpets (off-gassing flame retardants, formaldehyde)
And if you already live with MCS, fibromyalgia, PTSD, or other nervous system-based conditions, your body is likely already stuck in fight-or-flight. Add in this level of chemical stress—and it’s no wonder we feel exhausted, foggy, dizzy, inflamed, and sick.
Why Our Bodies Can’t Just “Detox It” Like Everyone Else
When your system is already dysregulated, every new chemical exposure is like another log on the fire.
The liver, kidneys, and lymph can only handle so much. But in modern life, we’re constantly exposed. And those of us who are already vulnerable—because of trauma, genetics, or chronic illness—can’t process that load fast enough.
It’s not weakness.
It’s chemistry.
So What Can We Do?
We may not be able to control the whole world—but we can create a safer space for our bodies to rest and recover.
Here’s what I do (and recommend starting with):
1. Fragrance-Free Everything
Start by removing products that list “fragrance” or “parfum.” Even “unscented” can be misleading—look for truly fragrance-free labels.
Better options (no affiliation):
Deodorant: Humble Unscented, No Pong Low Fragrance
Laundry: Branch Basics, Attitude Unscented, Truly Free
Body care: Dr. Bronner’s Unscented, Alaffia Unscented
Dish soap: ECOS Free & Clear
Even the NIEHS acknowledges that environmental exposures can have lasting impacts on our immune and nervous systems.
You can check how safe your products are using resources like the EWG Skin Deep® Database.
Also, you can look for third-party certifications like MADE SAFE® when shopping for personal care or cleaning products.
2. Ventilate Constantly
Open windows when you clean, cook, or bring in new furniture or clothes.
Use air purifiers with carbon filters (not just HEPA).
3. Support Detox Pathways Gently
Dry brushing, sweating (if tolerated), hydration, magnesium, and binders like activated charcoal (talk to a practitioner).
Sometimes “detoxing” too fast can backfire—go slow.
4. Stop Normalizing the Scent Culture
Speak up when someone uses a plug-in or sprays a room.
It’s not just a preference. For some of us, it’s a medical issue.
Tell your doctor’s office, school, or salon: scent makes you sick.
You’re not overreacting—you’re advocating for your health!
5. Awareness Saves Lives
We can’t avoid every chemical—but by talking about MCS and toxic overload, we help others connect the dots in their own health journey.
MCS is real. Chemical overload is real.
And we deserve to live in a world where we’re not made sick by our surroundings.
Research from places like Silent Spring Institute shows how toxic household chemicals affect our bodies—especially those already dealing with chronic illness.
Final Thoughts
If you’re constantly feeling worse and can’t figure out why—look at your environment. Look at the products in your home.
The cause might not be in your bloodwork. It might be in your laundry basket.
You are not crazy. You are not overreacting.
Your body is trying to protect you.
And that deserves respect.
Need help finding truly safe products or want to share your story?
Comment below or message me—this space is for all of us.
Want to know how I figured all this out the hard way? Read my healing journey here.
