Avoiding headaches when painting

Question

I’d like to perform a DIY paint job. However, I do sometimes get headaches when working with paint. Is there anything I can do to avoid this? Is this a sign that I should simply avoid undertaking paint jobs by myself? In this case, should I just hire a professional? If I wear a mask, could it prevent the headaches from occurring or is it better to avoid it anyway? It’d be great to get some guidance on this area as I’d really like to get some paintwork done soon around the house.

Steven · Accepted Answer

Use a good mask with a filter and use water based paints

Heidi · Answer

Yes as above use water-based paints..as I'm sure you don't want to give up doing something you enjoy.
There are really good water-based paints out now even in satinwood and gloss in Dulux trade and Leyland and other major brands

Timothy · Answer

Use a water based paint easier brush cleaning no fumes dries quicker

Jamie · Answer

Try a mask, if that does work treat yourself and get a professional in.

Keith · Answer

If you use water base paint but they wont last as long i would use oil base paint they last longer if you open windows and open a loaf of bread that gets the smell away faster yes I know what you think but it will work hope this helps

Terry · Answer

Use water based paint and wear a mask oil based paint give out a strong smell if you are getting headaches avoid them there are some very good water based paint out there don't go for the cheapest ones

Sean · Answer

Wear a suitable mask, try to open windows to create air floor through your property whilst painting, use water based products rather than oil based when possible, and my top tip of the day is to chop an onion in half and leave it on the side, this will help neutralise the smell of fresh paint fumes

Thandiwe · Answer

Hi there, 

You don't have to avoid painting, use a mask but try to use odourless paints and try again before you give up. Hope this helps.

Ronald · Answer

Please don’t use oil based paints which can be very high in paint fumes, this is caused by high levels of volatile organic compounds and also have poisonous hydrocarbons! The fumes may give you headaches and nausea.

Craig · Answer

To be honest, if you have ventilation throughout the property or the rooms you are Painting as well as having a mask with a breather compound on it you should be ok. As I had similar experiences without headaches while painting and this worked for me. Hope it helps

Christopher · Answer

Use a good quality water-based paint and wearing a mask may help you from getting headaches, cheap suitable ones can be found at screwfix or toolstation easily and have windows open in the room that you are working on, do one room at a time so rest of your home is available for taking a break from the paint if you still get headache if you still have problems then before you get the painters in or get your wife on the job 😬

Avoiding headaches when painting

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