Warning: asthma and brushes

Some weeks ago I put some good money into one of those natural boar bristle brushes everyone seem to swear by. But, as I was trying to clean the thing and got it near water, it started giving off something that triggered an asthma reaction. Of course, the brush had to go.

For those of us with allergy and asthma problems, it seems like ingredients and materials labeled "natural" should be read "handle with caution". Since, I have found a good brush sold by The Body Shop, with pegs made of wood. It makes smooth hair and cleans better than any brush I ever had.

Anyone else have allergyproblems with haircare products? I seem only to be able to use HeadandShoulders shampoo, everything else I try gives me hives. I have no idea why.

Viktoria

Thanks for your concern. I do have a great doctor who has identified some causes, but I also have what they call "atopic" skin, which means that on a bad day, I might even react with rashes from pressure, such as from a belt or a shoe laced up to tight. One lives with it.

My doc (bless him!) is working the manufacturers: he has been fighting for years to make them stop using colofonium inside tubes and cans (makes shampoo and cream slip out of the tube more easily). Colofonium is a strong allergy causer, and since it is not strictly an ingredient, it is not even declared on bottles!

I just wish people would have more patience with us allergic ones - sometimes it is clear they think one is just "fussy"!