1 MILLION+
Over 1 million Canadians live with MCS
100%
Increase (2000-2020)
MCS prevalence has more than doubled in two decades
72%
of Canadians diagnosed with MCS are women
75%
with autism report fragrance sensitivity
58%
with asthma report fragrance sensitivity
49%
of Canadians diagnosed with MCS are aged 55+
About Us
Fragrance-Free Services was created in honour and recognition of and to amplify the voices, struggles, perseverance, and unmet needs of each of the over 1 million people living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) in Canada.
We’re a grassroots collaborative of experts and specialists with lived experience, working as a volunteer-based not-for-profit united by our shared goal of protecting and advancing the rights of and improving the health of the planet and the people that are adversely impacted by the use of common everyday chemicals.
Fragrances, scents and other commonly used everyday chemicals are physical and sensory disability-related barriers to access, and equal and full participation and inclusion in all aspects of society for people living with MCS and a host of other medical conditions. For instance, asthma, COPD, allergies, migraine, seizure, autism, fibromyalgia, CFS/ME, GWS, cancer, MCAS, ES, long-covid, and more.
We work toward the full participation and inclusion and removal of barriers for people living with MCS from all spaces throughout society – housing, workplaces, healthcare, education, other services, places of worship, outdoor spaces, and more.
We have proactively removed to the greatest extent possible, the barriers of fragrances, scents and other commonly used everyday chemicals from our services and spaces. We are committed to individualized accommodation beyond our proactive measures.
Our specialized expertise, innovative thinking and sound guidance elevate the human-experience through the creation of thoughtful and innovative solutions that embody equity, inclusivity, accessibility, connectivity and participation throughout society, and wellness for people living with MCS.
At the heart of everything we do is “accessible air”.
What is MCS?
In a nutshell, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity or “MCS” is a chronic medical condition where individuals experience adverse health reactions, including to low level exposures to chemicals that are commonly found in everyday products and widely used throughout society. This includes, but is not limited to fragrances and scents - whether synthetic or natural.
Symptoms:
Neurological: Headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and mood changes.
Respiratory: Coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, asthma, and throat irritation.
Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, bloating, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
Cardiovascular: Heart palpitations, chest pain, and rapid heart rate.
Musculoskeletal: Muscle and joint pain.
Dermatological: Skin rashes, itching, and burning sensations.
Other: Eye and throat irritation, sneezing, and congestion.
What is Fragrance?
Fragrance chemicals aren’t benign – some fragrance ingredients are toxic chemicals and exposure to them can lead to a range of health harms. Fragrance chemicals are also bad for the environment.-EWG
Fragrance is Everywhere!
Fragrance chemical exposure is found throughout society – in our living space, our workplace and educational space, etc. Fragrance is an obvious ingredient in perfumes and colognes, but it’s used in nearly every type of everyday personal care and cleaning product. They are hidden by “masking agents” in products marketed as “fragrance-free” or “unscented”.
- cosmetics
- deodorants
- shampoos
- conditioners
- laundry soaps
- fabric softeners
- cleaners
- etc.
Why Fragrance-Free?
It’s a matter of accessibility!
GOOD NEWS!
MCS is preventable
MCS is treatable
Check out our services to learn how we can help!