How to Manage Skin Allergies in 3 Simple Steps
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BY admin
UPDATED: August 13, 2023
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Dealing with skin allergies can be a hassle, but fear not!
I’m here to guide you through three effective steps to alleviate your condition and give you some insight into the triggers that can set off those pesky skin allergies.
First things first, let’s understand what you’re dealing with. Skin allergies can often be misunderstood, as people tend to associate allergies with respiratory or digestive issues. However, your skin, being the largest organ, can also fall victim to these reactions. When certain substances enter your system, your immune system goes into overdrive, releasing inflammation-causing chemicals. So, to take charge of your skin condition, it’s essential to grasp what causes it. Do a little research and have a chat with your doctor to gain a better understanding.
Now that you’re armed with knowledge, it’s time to identify and eliminate the culprits that trigger your itching and scratching frenzy. Believe it or not, there are over three thousand known triggers for skin allergies, and they come in both natural and man-made forms.
One such man-made trigger is latex, which originates from the sap of the Brazilian rubber tree. The proteins present in latex, along with those added during manufacturing, can spark an allergic reaction. Most people are aware of the potential reactions caused by latex gloves, but did you know that latex can also be found in baby pacifiers, balloons, pencil erasers, and even elastic bands in undergarments? It can even become airborne and inhaled, causing trouble. If you’re allergic to latex, try your best to steer clear of it and opt for vinyl or plastic alternatives whenever possible.
Another common trigger is nickel. Beyond the obvious sources like coins and jewelry, nickel lurks in everyday objects like scissors, bathroom and kitchen cabinet handles, and even zippers. Surprisingly, nickel is also found in cosmetics such as mascara, eye shadow, and eye pencils. Experts estimate that the number of people with nickel allergies has risen by about 40% in the last decade, partly due to the popularity of body piercings. Some foods naturally contain nickel, and individuals with severe symptoms may need to regulate their diet under medical supervision. Unfortunately, there’s no known method to desensitize someone with a nickel allergy, so avoidance is your best bet.
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skin allergies
Now that we’ve tackled the triggers, let’s move on to the third component of effective management—taking care of your skin. The little things the say, make a big difference.
First and foremost, keep your fingernails short. This helps minimize the damage caused by scratching and reduces the chances of infection.
Moisturizing and softening your skin should be your top priority. Avoid letting your skin dry out by using topical corticosteroid preparations, as recommended by your doctor, to control inflammation.
When it comes to bathing, opt for lukewarm water instead of hot baths or showers, as heat can further dry out your skin and increase itching. For added relief, consider adding oatmeal or baking soda to your bathwater. Although these won’t moisturize your skin directly, they have a soothing effect.
Choose a mild soap or a non-soap cleanser with a neutral pH (pH7) when washing. If you enjoy using bath oils, apply them after your bath so they can seal in the moisture. Bubble baths, on the other hand, can create a barrier that hinders your skin from benefiting from the moisturizing properties of the water.
After bathing, gently pat your skin dry with a soft towel. This helps retain moisture. Immediately following, apply a lotion or emollient cream to help your skin lock in that much-needed hydration.
To keep your skin in top shape, it’s important to steer clear of situations involving excessive physical contact, heavy perspiration, or wearing heavy clothing. This might mean avoiding certain sports or taking extra precautions. If you’re a swimmer, be sure to rinse the chlorine off your skin as soon as you exit the pool and apply a moisturizer to replenish moisture.
By following these three simple steps, you can take control of your skin allergy and minimize its impact on your everyday life. Remember, knowledge is power, so educate yourself, identify your triggers, and give your skin the care it deserves. You’ve got this!