Dread that “new paint smell” and how you’ll feel after decorating? You’re not alone. Many conventional paints release harsh VOCs during application. Paint fumes can trigger skin irritation, respiratory issues, and headaches.
Those with conditions like asthma, copd or chemical sensitivities can become unwell after exposure.
Pictured: Oliver Twig by Earthborn Paints - available in emulsion, clay paint or eggshell.
Thankfully, there are many natural paint options which let you refresh your home without fumes or overwhelming paint smell affecting your health and wellbeing.
Can You Be Allergic To Paint?
Yes, paint allergies are real. They’re primarily triggered by VOCs in paint, these are the airborne chemicals used as solvents and binders in conventional paint. They release harmful, smelly gases during paint application and as it dries in your home. A process known as off gassing, which means those with allergies and chemical sensitivities can be affected for many weeks as paint cures.
Typical symptoms include headaches, irritation of the eyes or throat, and breathing discomfort. For people with asthma, exposure can lead to inflammation of the airways, making symptoms more noticeable.
See also: Paint for asthma & allergy sufferers | Can you get non toxic paint for walls
What is Anti Allergy Paint?
There are many specially formulated natural paints with hypoallergenic properties. They’re typically VOC free or trace VOC, and some are formulated to actively clean pollutants such as formaldehyde from the air.
Photocatalytic paint including Auro 328 Airfresh & Graphenstone Ambient Pro are both designed to actively purify the air in your home.
Low emission paints release virtually no harmful airborne compounds during and after drying. Look for paints certified by individual schemes Independent schemes such as AgBB, which assess total VOC emissions over time, with strict limits at set intervals (for example after 3 and 28 days). This helps identify products that remain low emission beyond the initial application phase.
Our bestselling coloured natural emulsion, Auro 555 is just one example from our extensive range of Ag BB certified paint.
Many conventional paints rely on preservatives such as isothiazolinones (for example MIT and BIT), which are known to trigger irritation and allergic responses in some users. Our ranges of Thiazolinone free paints removes this issue for those with sensitivities.
However, all paints based on lime, clay or silicate use mineral or plant based ingredients rather than plastic binders, which affects emissions - making them suitable for most users with chemical sensitivities.
See also: What is plastic free paint?
Hypoallergenic Paint Types: Low VOC & Allergy Friendly Options
There’s several broad natural paint types that reduce common triggers such as VOC emissions, and synthetic additives.
Lime Based Paints
Lime paints use calcium hydroxide as a binder and cure through a natural carbonation process. This results in a mineral coating that is highly vapour permeable.
Products such as Auro 344 and Graphenstone GCS have lime based formualtions. Both offer sd values below 0.05 m, indicating strong breathability. Their mineral composition means they are free from synthetic dispersion binders, and VOC levels are extremely low, typically below 1 g/L, helping to minimise indoor air pollution.
An additional benefit of lime is its natural alkalinity. This creates an environment that is less favourable for mould growth, which can help maintain a healthier indoor climate over time.
Clay Paints
Clay based paints are made from natural earth minerals combined with plant derived additives.
Auro 331 is a good example of this type of formulation. It uses clay and mineral fillers with plant based surfactants, and contains no added preservatives. Its sd value is below 0.015 m, making it extremely vapour permeable.
Because clay paints do not form a plastic film, they allow walls to regulate moisture more naturally. They also tend to produce very little odour during application and many are rated as very low emission under the AgBB scheme.
Silicate Paints
Silicate paints use potassium silicate as a binder and chemically bond to mineral substrates.
Auro 303 offers an sd value below 0.01 m, making it one of the most breathable options available. It is free from preservatives and classified as low emission, with VOC levels below 1 g/l.
This type of paint also benefits from natural alkalinity, providing a mild fungicidal and algicidal effect without the need for added biocides. That contributes to a more stable surface environment in areas prone to humidity.
See also: What’s the best eco friendly paints? | Paints for babies & kids rooms | Non toxic paint for pets
Suitable Anti Allergy Paints
Auro 331 Clay Paint
Auro 331 is one of the lowest emission options available. It is based on clay and mineral fillers, with plant derived ingredients such as cellulose and natural surfactants. It contains no added preservatives and is rated as very low emission.
With an sd value below 0.015 m, it is highly breathable and allows excellent moisture regulation. VOC levels are below 1 g/l, keeping airborne emissions to a minimum. This makes it particularly suitable for bedrooms and living spaces where comfort is a priority.
Auro 344 High Grade Lime Paint
Auro 344 is a traditional lime paint made from calcium hydroxide and mineral fillers. It contains no plastic dispersion and has a VOC level of 0 g/l.
Its sd value below 0.05 m ensures strong vapour permeability. The mineral composition and alkaline nature support a stable indoor environment and help reduce the likelihood of mould developing on the surface.
Auro 328 Airfresh Wall Paint
Auro 328 combines lime chemistry with a photocatalytic effect. It contains titanium dioxide, which helps break down certain organic compounds when exposed to light.
It shares the same high breathability as other lime paints, with an sd value below 0.05 m and VOC levels of 0 g/l. In addition to low emissions, it actively contributes to reducing airborne pollutants, making it a strong option for enclosed or heavily used spaces.
Auro 321 Natural Wall Paint
Auro 321 offers a more durable alternative while maintaining low emissions. It uses a blend of mineral fillers, silicates and plant-based additives, and is free from preservatives.
With VOC levels below 1 g/l and an sd value below 0.1 m, it remains breathable while providing a washable surface. This makes it suitable for hallways, kitchens and other areas where durability is needed without compromising indoor air quality.
Auro 303 High Grade Silicate Paint
Auro 303 is a silicate-based paint designed for highly breathable, mineral coatings. It has an sd value below 0.01 m, making it extremely open to vapour movement.
VOC levels are below 1 g/l and it is classified as low emission under AgBB. Its natural alkalinity provides a mild protective effect against mould and algae without relying on added chemical treatments.
Why do Paint Smell & Fumes Make You Feel Unwell?
The smell associated with paint is a result of airborne compounds being released during drying.
In conventional paints, this smell is often stronger and more persistent due to higher levels of VOCs and synthetic additives. In natural and mineral paints, the odour is usually much milder and dissipates more quickly.
It is worth noting that odour alone is not a complete measure of emissions, but it often reflects the overall chemical load present in the product.
Choosing Paint For Allergy or Asthma Sensitive Homes
Selecting the right paint involves looking beyond vague marketing claimsand focusing on how the product is made.
Low emission levels, simple ingredient profiles and high breathability all contribute to a better outcome. Mineral and natural paints tend to perform well in this context because they avoid many of the compounds associated with irritation.
At the same time, practical considerations such as durability and surface type still matter. The best choice is often a balance between performance and minimising indoor air impact.
Need advice? Drop one of our paint experts a line and we’ll help you identify the best anti allergy paint products for your next project.
