Tuesday, May 23, 2006

The Problem with Axe Body Spray


The Problem with Axe Body Spray

One of the difficulties in a public school setting that endorses a no-scent or scent-free policy is that in reality it can not be enforced consistently. We live in a world full of scents. The key idea that many students and sometimes teachers don't recognize is that some scents can do a great deal of damage and cause distress to some individuals.

Many of the chemical concoctions that are used to create body sprays like Axe or TAG or the various colognes and perfumes that are designed to cover up the nasty odours and produce an attractive aroma can cause asthmatic reactions in people with respiratory ailments or allergic reactions in those with environmental sensitivities.

These products are not meant to be "hosed" onto an individual as a decontaminant for body odour. Numerous times this year in the school hallway, students are bombarded with what seems like a cloud of body spray that may have been created 15 minutes before. Most people do not say anything because it is nothing more than something unpleasant. Imagine the person who walks by and suffers a severe asthma attack because of it. Many people also feel that this is not a big deal and "hey it smells really good"...well of course because they do not have to deal with the health complications that some do.

It really comes down to having a respect for others around you. I'm not against the use of perfumes, colognes, sprays, deodorants, etc.....I like to smell "good" too....but there must be a respect shown for those around. We have to share the same space. If you're going to use these products, be sensible, use them in moderation, and make sure you're not offending other around you.

By the way...I think the Axe and Tag commercials are just a tad misleading don't you think? In a junior high setting where some guys are spraying this stuff on themselves (even in the hallway...how classy) I am yet to see the girls flocking to them...or chasing them down the hall....usually all I hear is..."You're gross...you reek!!".

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

oh, i remember when i was in grade nine at ellenvale and the guy who was in the locker beside me coated himself with the stuff before and after gym class.

gotta love junior high.