January 20, 2026
Keep your allergic valentine safe and happy with these tips
ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (January 21, 2026) – As Valentine’s Day approaches, you may be wondering how to keep your loved one safe and happy – and free of any allergens that can cause allergy or asthma flares. While Valentine’s Day may conjure images of chocolates, flowers, and fragrances, these classic gifts can pose hidden risks for those with food allergies, fragrance sensitivities, and respiratory conditions like asthma.
“The best laid romantic plans can turn into a trip to the ER if allergy and asthma triggers aren’t top of mind,” says Cherie Zachary, MD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “But with thoughtful planning and awareness of potential triggers, you can make Valentine’s Day memorable for all the right reasons.”
To help families and couples plan a safe and love-filled holiday, ACAAI shares these five practical tips:
1. Choose Allergy-Safe Treats – While chocolates and candy are Valentine’s Day staples, many sweets contain common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, and soy. For those with food allergies, even trace exposure can be dangerous.
- Consider allergen-free chocolates and treats labeled safe for individuals with specific allergies.
- When in doubt, ask your loved ones about their allergy profile before gifting food.
- If you are purchasing from a bakery or chocolatier, confirm their allergy-safe practices. This consideration can prevent potentially severe reactions and ensure your gift is truly enjoyed.
2. Avoid Strong Fragrances – Colognes, perfumes, and heavily scented body products may seem romantic, but strong fragrances can trigger headaches, allergic reactions, or asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals.
- Instead of perfume or cologne, choose fragrance-free or lightly scented body care products formulated for sensitive skin.
- If you’re unsure whether your valentine tolerates fragrances, opt for non-scented gifts to be safe. Your thoughtfulness in avoiding triggers will be appreciated.
3. Create Allergen-Free, Personalized Gifts – Gifts that are personal and allergy-friendly show care beyond the expected. Consider options that don’t involve food or scents at all:
- Customized artwork, a framed photo, or a handwritten love letter.
- A playlist or digital photo album of shared memories.
- A cozy blanket or a book by your loved one’s favorite author.
Personalized gifts can strengthen your connection while steering clear of allergy triggers. Win-win!
4. Skip Candles and Smoke-Producing Items
Candles, incense, and other products that produce smoke or strong odors can be a problem for those with asthma and fragrance sensitivities. They can irritate airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, or asthma attacks.
- Consider battery-operated LED candles for ambiance without the smoke or scent.
- If real candles are a must, choose unscented, low-smoke options, and ensure proper ventilation.
Keeping the air clear helps everyone breathe easier.
5. Select Flowers That Don’t Trigger Allergies
Flowers are a classic Valentine’s gift, but some floral varieties produce significant pollen that can trigger sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny noses.
- Opt for low-pollen flowers such as roses (especially double-petaled varieties), tulips, orchids, or snapdragons.
- Avoid highly fragrant, high-pollen blooms like lilies or daisies if your Valentine has pollen allergies.
- Consider gifting a potted plant instead — these can add lasting beauty with minimal impact on allergies.
Flowers can still be lovely without compromising comfort.
Valentine’s Day should be a celebration of love and connection — not hospital visits or missed moments due to preventable allergic reactions. By selecting gifts and experiences that respect individual health needs, everyone gets to experience the love and magic.
An allergist can help you and your loved ones avoid allergy triggers every day of the year. Allergists are specially trained to help you take control of your allergies and asthma, so you can live the (romantic) life you want. For more information about the diagnosis and treatment of allergies and asthma, or to locate an allergist in your area, visit AllergyAndAsthmaRelief.org.
About ACAAI
The ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 6,000 allergists-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy, and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy, and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Join us on Facebook, Pinterest X/Twitter, Instagram and Threads.
