How Seasonal Allergies Affect Your Skin
As if seasonal allergies weren’t bad enough, they also put your skin through the wringer. Instead of trying to muddle your way through it, it’s better to understand the ways seasonal allergies affect your skin and how to handle them.
The Affects of Seasonal Allergies on Your Skin
Irritated Skin
From blowing your runny nose, sneezing uncontrollably, and rubbing itchy eyes, your skin gets a lot of rough attention when you’re battling allergies. All of this continuous touching and rubbing can make the skin raw, tender, and inflamed. This irritation is difficult to maintain once it starts, so it’s best to avoid touching, rubbing, and scratching your skin.
When your skin becomes raw and irritated, it may seem like anything you do will simply make it worse. However, simply moisturizing the irritated area with a healing moisturizer can both soothe and heal the skin. Products containing aloe are said to speed up the healing process. Do a bit of shopping around and be sure to read the labels to find a product that works for you or speak with your dermatologist for their recommendations.
Flare-ups of Existing Skin Conditions
Those who have skin conditions, like eczema and psoriasis, may find that seasonal allergies can make it worse. Dry, cool air can cause the skin to dry out and open the door to a flare-up of these conditions.
If you’re taking medication to regulate your condition, continue to do so regularly. Avoid wearing rough and itchy clothing. Opt for soft and natural fabrics, like cotton. The symptoms of eczema and psoriasis worsen when the skin is dry. Add dry air to the already dry skin and your condition is sure to kick into overdrive.
Wrinkles and Fine Lines
As we mentioned, seasonal allergies are like kryptonite for our eyes. This skin around your eyes is very delicate and therefore wrinkles easily. The more we rub and scratch, the more we create wrinkles and fine lines around the eye. You may also find yourself squinting more since the eyes are easily irritated.
A cool compress can help reduce the itching, keeping you from rubbing them and creating creases. To get rid of the wrinkles you may already have, there are several dermatology treatment options that can make a difference. This includes a chemical peel, laser resurfacing, dermal fillers, botox, and more. An antihistamine is another option. Talk to your doctor to find what works for you, but taking something properly recommended can almost immediately help you with itchy eyes.
Rashes
Sometimes people with seasonal allergies may experience hives and rashes. It may be due to a sensitivity to various plants or a reaction brought on by the change of weather.
Topical antihistamines can help to alleviate the symptoms of a rash including redness, itchiness, and burning.
If you are having some of these issues or others due to allergy season, visit a licensed dermatologist. If you are in the Cincinnati, Ohio area, just reach out to our experts at The Dermatology Group and we’ll help you explore treatment options, give you advice, resources, and more.. Give us a call today!