Nov 22 2009
Skin Allergies: Three Important Things To Consider
Many people are aware that allergies affect digestive or respiratory systems, however, they are also a major irritant of the largest organ – the skin. If you suffer from this condition, it is important to know the effective approach to manage skin allergies. There are three important things you should know when skin allergies are triggered, so that you can avoid them from happening and prevent your skin from becoming ruined.
Firstly, understand how these allergic reactions are triggered.
Just like the digestive or respiratory systems react from the allergens inhaled or ingested, your skin overreacts when certain substances or chemicals make contact with it. In some cases, the allergic reaction sets in very quickly, while in other instances it takes quite some time. Either way, it can be very itchy and this can be very serious for your skin. Knowing which type of chemicals cause the condition, is one way of better managing skin allergies.
Secondly, identify and eliminate skin irritants and allergens that cause the itching or scratching cycle.
This can be difficult considering that there are thousands of different irritants and allergens which trigger skin allergies. However, knowing or identifying which irritants your skin usually comes into contact with, will give you a decent start. There are two general types of skin irritants or allergens to look at: natural and man-made.
• Latex
Latex is derived from the Brazilian rubber tree. These are natural proteins, however, when undergone manufacturing processes, they become full of allergens, which trigger the reactions when an individual suffering the condition comes in contact with it. Gloves are one of the products which are made of latex and are normally used by people.
However, there are other products which are made of latex, as well, such as the balloons, elastic bands (including those found in undergarments), pencil erasers and even baby pacifiers. If you are known to have allergic reactions, it is best to avoid products that contain latex. Instead, opt for plastic or vinyl.
• Nickel
You can find nickel in many everyday things, such as coins, jewellery, scissors, zippers, and some kitchen and bathroom handles. You can also find it in certain eye shadows, mascara, eye pencils, and others. Nickel allergy patients have risen by 40% over the past few years, because of the growing popularity of using jewellery, body piercings, and cosmetics.
Aside from this, there are certain foods that contain natural nickel and if you are suffering severe symptoms, you need to undergo a supervised medical diet. Avoiding nickel seems to be the best way to stop the allergies, as there are currently no means of desensitising nickel allergy reactions.
Thirdly, take care of your skin.
One thing that you can do is always keep your fingernails short. This reduces serious damage from scratching.
Dry skin tends to irritate easily, so it will help if it is kept moisturized and softened. For patients with reactions to certain chemicals, doctors may suggest using preparations with topical corticosteroid, to control or prevent the inflammation.
When taking a shower, make sure it‘s not too hot. The heat increases the dryness and itchiness of your skin, triggering more irritant reactions. Use lukewarm water when taking a bath and don’t overdo it, 20-30 minutes of soaking is plemty. Adding baking soda or oatmeal can help sooth your skin.
Bubble baths are not a good idea since they stop the bathwater from moisturizing and softening your skin. As much as possible, use mild or non-soap cleanser. You will also have to remember to rinse the chlorine from your skin as soon as possible after swimming in a pool.
It is also important to avoid excessive sweating. Heavy clothing and heavy physical contact can trigger skin irritants or allergies relatively easily.
