Spring and Skin Allergies

Spring is finally here and pollen is floating everywhere with the breeze. For people with spring allergy this unfortunately means sneezing, congestion and itchy skin problems. In fact, skin allergies and eczema intensity increase during spring. Puffiness and dark circles around the eyes are also a more frequent in allergy sufferers.

Here are a few allergy-related skin conditions and how can you best handle them:

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis):          

Many think that Eczema is a form of allergy, but it can be aggravated by exposure to seasonal allergens. It’s a condition where the skin’s outer layer is sensitive and vulnerable to external irritants, often causing skin dryness looks like flaky and when scratched it crusts over.

People with eczema should seek medical management of their allergy symptoms and apply a skin care regimen. Hypoallergenic moisturizing is very important for strengthening the skin’s outer layer and for relief.

Prescription medication is required in active eczema.

Puffy Eyes and Dark Circles:

 Itchy, watery, puffy eyes are another spring norm for allergy sufferers. Same for sneezing and runny nose. Again, seek medical attention and make sure to have medication available when you need that relieve the itchiness and inflammation.

And while it’s hard to avoid rubbing and scratching, try gently dabbing the eyes with cool water and using only hypoallergenic cosmetics can help, wearing sunglasses will help protect your eyes from pollen.

Hives: 

Insect bites, pollen, food allergens, latex, and poison ivy and many might cause Hives for some people. Hives are characterized by itchy, red, raised bumps on the skin can come as an inflammatory allergic response to anything you’re allergic to.  First thing you should protect yourself is by avoiding these hive triggers and to use allergy relief medications. In some cases, allergy testing proved to be helpful, although most cases of hives do not have a single clear trigger. In these cases, treatment is the focus, and your dermatologist can provide a broad range of treatments.

Some other general tips that can help you with your skin allergy

·          Shower before you go to bed.

·          Wash and or change your bedding and pillowcases frequently, use fragrance- and allergen-free detergent.

·          Keeping windows closed, air conditioning and filters keep outdoor dust and pollens from getting into the house.

·          Removing shoes and outerwear at the door.