The Most Common Triggers Of Skin Allergies

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In short, there are many reasons why people might find themselves with skin conditions and allergies. If you can identify a cause, it might be easier to treat the problem and reduce the triggers.

There are various skin conditions that result from internal factors, such the genetic condition Hereditary Angiodema, or due to immune system functionality in the case of hives. With some chronic illnesses, individuals may find their skin is affected in some way. In contrast, allergic contact dermatitis, where the skin comes into contact directly with a triggering allergen, can cause swollen, red, scaly, bumpy or itchy skin.

Rashes and other skin conditions can sometimes be the result of skin allergies. There are many different potential causes of skin conditions, so this collaborative post will take a look at a few of the potential triggers that you may be able to identify and reduce. 

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Soaps

Some people suffer allergic contact dermatitis from certain soaps. This can include everything from hand soaps to washing machine detergents.

Steroid creams and anti-itch lotions may be able reduce or eliminate these rashes. Meanwhile, it’s best to avoid regular soaps if they’re problematic and stick to hypoallergenic soaps (these tend to not contain chemicals and scents that are often the trigger for such allergies). When washing up or handling detergents, try wearing rubber gloves.

Metals

There are certain metals such as nickel and gold that can cause rashes, usually as a form of contact dermatitis. People often discover these allergies when wearing certain jewellery causes a problem.

By trying out different metals, you may be able to identify which metals do and don’t cause you irritation. If you find yourself getting a reaction to several types of metal, it could be worth sticking to hypoallergenic jewellery as this is usually made from a material like titanium or surgical steel. Such materials have no or trace amounts of nickel and are usually better tolerated.

Nature

An itchy red allergic contact dermatitis rash can result from contact with different flowers and plants, such as with the oily coating on poison sumac, poison oak or poison ivy. It could be that you touch these directly or that you indirectly come into contact the oil from touching the likes of gardening tools, pets or clothing. Be cautious around such plants and wear gardening gloves if you can’t avoid coming into contact with them. Always wash your hands after being outdoors.

Make-up

Certain chemicals in everyday make-up can cause people to develop rashes or even hives.

Fortunately, there are many specialist hypoallergenic make-up products on the market that don’t contain any of these key chemicals. This website contains a number of skin products designed for people with sensitive skin. You may want to consult your doctor about being prescribed steroid creams or anti-itch lotions if you currently have severe rashes that won’t go away.

Clothing Materials

Some people are known to have reactions to certain clothing materials. This could be a natural material such as cotton or leather, but in most instances it’s an allergy to a specific synthetic material such as latex, polyester or nylon.

By working out the type of material you’re sensitive or allergic to, you can try to avoid repeat reactions by checking the labels on clothing before wearing. If you get allergic reactions to various synthetic materials, it could be worth switching to organic clothing made of materials like cotton, bamboo and hemp.

Medications & Supplements

Different medications can have unwelcome side-effects for some people, from upset stomachs and skin rashes, to the more severe and serious side-effects. The same can be said of supplements, even the natural ones. Everyone responds to such things differently, so it pays to be cautious and keep in mind that side-effects may be a possibility. If you notice anything unusual, please speak to a medical professional immediately.

Pet Allergies

Pet allergies tend to cause a variety of symptoms including itchy eyes, irritated sinuses, a runny nose and wheezing, but they can also cause skin allergies. Cats and dogs are two of the most common animals that can bring out allergic reactions.

Anti-histamines can usually help control these symptoms. It may also be worth investigating pet allergy jabs if you want to keep your pet but are struggling with the associated allergies.

Food Allergies

Food allergies tend to cause swelling and itching in the mouth and an upset stomach, but they can also lead to skin allergies.

In addition to allergies are intolerances, and in some cases keeping a food diary may be helpful in trying to identify any potential triggers.

Eliminating or swapping out this problematic food from your diet will likely resolve or minimise this type of allergy, though it isn’t always easy to identify the cause if it’s a rare and specific ingredient. Some of the most common foods include nuts, fish, eggs and soy. 

As always, if you experience a worrying new rash or worsening of a skin condition, please speak to a pharmacist or GP.

Related : 5 Of The Best Intensive Hand Creams Under £10.

[ This is a collaborative post & as such the ideas expressed here are that of the author ]