A skin allergy is an allergic reaction to a generally harmless substance like pollen, wool, plants, or soap. The immune system responds to this trigger and attacks to eliminate it from the body. The outcome is an allergic skin rash that is often itchy and red. There are several types of skin allergies silver spring, including contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, hives, and angioedema, each with different triggers and treatments. Your doctor will diagnose your allergy and suggest the most appropriate care plan. Meanwhile, understanding the common causes of skin allergies can help you take measures to avoid them.
1. Poison Ivy
When the leaves of Poison Ivy are bruised, or damaged, they secrete a specific oil-like substance. If this substance gets in contact with your skin, it causes an itchy red rash with blisters or bumps.
You can treat this rash using a wet compress, a specific cream, or lotion. However, you should see a doctor if you experience serious reactions.
2. Nickel
Nickel makes everything from eyeglass frames to belts, jewelry, and paper clips, perhaps making it a common cause of skin allergies. You are more likely to suffer skin allergies from nickel if you are a cleaner, hair stylist, caterer, or work with metal.
If you experience allergic reactions from nickel in something you consume, you may develop bumps on your fingers, also known as hand eczema. The only treatment for nickel allergy is avoiding anything made of nickel.
3. Rubber or Latex
Latex or rubber allergy is a reaction to natural rubber, a substance derived from the sap of rubber trees. Numerous products are made of natural rubber latex, including balloons, gloves, and more.
Reactions to rubber range from mild to serious and possibly fatal symptoms. Common symptoms include hives, rash, skin irritation, and sometimes a runny nose or problems breathing if you inhale the latex.
4. Clothing
A rash on your neck after wearing a shirt, or on the feet after wearing socks or shoes is a sign of an allergy. You may also be allergic to a new outfit, especially if the dyes or other substances are utilized to make the fabric or the fibers of the clothing itself. Therefore, always wash new clothes before wearing them. Likewise, you should also consider switching fabric.
5. Medications
Some medications in over-the-counter ointments and creams may make your skin issues worse. If you realize hives, swelling, or skin irritation after taking new medications, you should talk to your doctor.
6. Preservatives
Chemicals known as parabens and relaxers make cosmetic products last longer. These preservatives are present in beauty products like conditioners, shampoos, makeup, sunscreens, and more. If any specific products cause a rash or other allergy symptoms, you should consider changing them.
7. Ultraviolet Light
You may develop hives or a rash if you use certain products or a combination of them on the skin, and then step outside in the sun or utilize a tanning bed. This skin allergy may look like a sunburn, but it is not one.
Skin allergies can be very troublesome and cause irritating symptoms. Unfortunately, it might be hard to learn what factors are causing your skin allergies and what you should do to manage your condition. However, understanding these basics could help you correctly identify your triggers. Besides, you can access a comprehensive diagnosis and care plan by visiting a skin allergy specialist. While most skin allergies are treated by avoiding the specific triggers, if your condition causes serious symptoms, you may need topical creams and allergy shots.
