Skin allergies are characterized by redness, rash, and itching. This condition can be caused by various things and can occur gradually or suddenly. Know how to handle it and what can be a trigger for skin allergies so you can avoid it.
Skin allergies are also known as allergic contact dermatitis. An allergic reaction can occur when the body is exposed to an allergen, which is an element that is considered harmful by the immune system. Someone who has sensitive skin is generally very easy to experience allergies.
Occurrence of Skin Allergies
Allergic reactions do not appear immediately when the body is first exposed to the allergen. At the first exposure, the immune system will only remember it as something dangerous, then make antibodies as a reaction.
If exposure to the allergen occurs again, the new body will respond with various symptoms. The process of forming an immune reaction to an allergen takes at least 10 days.
If you already have allergies, in a matter of minutes, sufferers can immediately experience skin allergy symptoms every time they are exposed to allergens. However, symptoms can also appear 1-2 days later. In some cases, allergies can cause a fatal or anaphylactic reaction.
Causes of Skin Allergies
If you suffer from skin allergies, it is advisable to go to the doctor. Your doctor can perform allergy tests to identify the triggers for your allergies.
There are several things that can cause and trigger an allergic skin reaction, including:
- Cosmetic products, for example make up, lotions, deodorants, soaps, shampoos and hair dyes
- Cleaning products, such as floor cleaners, laundry soap, disinfectants, and detergents
- Medications that are applied to the skin, such as anti-itch creams or antibiotics
- Accessories made of metal, for example nickel
- Plants, including leaves, stems, or pollen
- Latex, which is the material used for rubber gloves, condoms, and balloons
- Insect spray
- Perfume
The risk of skin allergies is also greater if you suffer from eczema (eczema), impaired blood circulation, or itching in the intimate area.
How to deal with skin allergies
To prevent and treat skin allergies, there are several ways you can do, including:
1. Avoid allergy triggers
This is the most important step in preventing an allergic reaction and relieving its symptoms. Find out what triggers your skin allergy and avoid direct contact as much as possible. Your doctor can help you identify your allergy triggers.
2. Using calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream
Both types of drugs work to reduce itching. However, the use of calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream should be done as directed and under the supervision of a doctor.
3. Undergoing immunotherapy
For allergies that are severe or don't go away with other treatments, your doctor may recommend allergen immunotherapy. This treatment is done by injecting purified allergen extract or taking immunotherapy tablets.
4. Using emergency epinephrine
If you have a history of severe allergies, your doctor will give you an injection of epinephrine. This type of drug works to relieve severe allergy symptoms that occur suddenly, so it is important to always carry it with you anytime and anywhere.
5. Wear loose and soft clothes
Tight clothing can make skin rashes worse. When the body is experiencing itching due to skin allergies, wear comfortable and loose clothing.
6. Take a cold shower
This method aims to reduce rashes on the skin. After bathing, dry your skin with a clean towel, then use a moisturizer. Avoid bathing or bathing in hot water as this can exacerbate skin allergy symptoms.
If your skin allergy causes severe symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and swelling in certain body parts, immediately consult a doctor or visit the nearest hospital for treatment.