Perfume - Missouri Poison Center

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Low Risk

Also known as:

body spray cologne

A perfume bottle in front of lilac flowers.

Possible Symptoms

  • Unpleasant taste
  • minor stomach upset
  • eye irritation

What to Do

  1. Wipe or rinse out the mouth.
  2. Give a serving size of water to drink.
  3. Rinse any exposed skin with lukewarm water and soap.
  4. Call 1-800-222-1222 for additional instructions.
If Exposed to Eyes
  1. Start rinsing eye(s) with lukewarm water.
  2. Call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222 for further recommendations.

Additional Information

Quick Facts About Perfume:

Most perfumes and colognes contain a blend of essential oils, water-soluble components, and alcohol. The amount of alcohol in perfumes and colognes can vary. When spritzed, the alcohol and water evaporate, leaving a pleasant scent on the skin.

If children spray the product on their skin, they may feel mild skin irritation. Usually, this is relieved by simply washing the skin with soap and water.

Note: If your child has gotten perfume or fragrance into their eyes, call the Missouri Poison Center now for help on how to rinse the eyes.

Sometimes children take a sip of the fragrance, but usually do not ingest much due to the bad taste. Minor stomach upset can happen, but an intoxication (or drunkenness) from the alcohol is not expected from these accidental ingestions.

If you notice that your child has ingested a fragrance product, it is important not to panic. Most children will react strongly to the taste of perfume or cologne and may cough or gag. Take the bottle away from the child and wipe their mouth out with a soft wet cloth. You may give them some water to drink to get the taste out of their mouth. Do not try to induce vomiting.

After you have removed your child from the situation, immediately call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.  Treatment recommendations are often determined by the amount ingested. The poison center is open all day, every day for poisoning emergencies and questions and our team of medical professionals will help to walk you through the next steps.

**Note: Don’t forget, every case is different. To make sure you are getting the best information for your individual situation, click below to call or chat. It is fast, free, and confidential.

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