What are chemical sensitizers?

Chemical sensitizers are substances that can provoke allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. They typically interact with the immune system, leading to hypersensitivity or sensitization after initial exposure. Once a person has been sensitized, subsequent exposures, even to very low levels of the sensitizing substance, can trigger allergic reactions, which may manifest as symptoms such as irritation, respiratory issues, or skin rashes.

This understanding is important in the context of indoor air quality because these sensitizers can be found in common indoor environments, such as in cleaning products, paints, or other chemical exposures. It is vital for maintaining a healthy indoor environment to recognize and manage the exposure to these sensitizers to prevent allergic reactions and promote better air quality.