HOW TO
AVOID SKIN ALLERGIES

Allergy-prone skin overreacts to a wide range of allergens in our environment and the products that we use.

YOUR QUESTIONS
OUR ANSWERS

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What causes rashes?

There are hundreds of different causes of rashes including infections, dermatitis, genetic skin conditions, allergies and autoimmune diseases. Rashes may also rarely represent underlying medical conditions. It is important to seek medical help for the right treatment options if basic measures have not been successful. Dr Cara McDonald, Dermatologist – Complete Skin Specialists

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What can I do about skin rashes that itch?

It's important to determine the cause of the itch and ensure that appropriate medical treatment is initiated if required. Otherwise, skincare products especially formulated for sensitive or allergic skin should be used to calm inflammation and protect the skin barrier. Antihistamines may be effective to help reduce itch. Dr Cara McDonald, Dermatologist – Complete Skin Specialists

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How can I treat an allergic reaction on my skin?

The most important thing when managing an allergic reaction on the skin is to stop using products which may have caused or could exacerbate the allergy. Many allergic skin reactions require medical treatment such as anti-inflammatory creams or tablets if they persist despite eliminating the cause. Dr Cara McDonald, Dermatologist – Complete Skin Specialists

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What does an allergic reaction look like on the skin?

Allergic skin rashes can be difficult to differentiate from other causes of eczema and dermatitis. Allergic reactions are typically itchy and continue to worsen if cause of the reaction has not been removed. If in doubt it is best to see your medical practitioner to confirm the diagnosis and instigate appropriate treatment. Dr Cara McDonald, Dermatologist – Complete Skin Specialists

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TRUE
OR FALSE

YOUR MAKE-UP BRUSH
CAN GIVE YOU ALLERGIES.

TRUE

Make-up brushes and applicators can be real dust and allergy traps, so need to be washed regularly. Clean your brushes with hypoallergenic soap, or make-up brush cleanser.
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NO SHOWER IS THE BEST
POLICY FOR ALLERGIC SKINS.

FALSE

If you don’t cleanse at the end of the day, you are leaving allergens and irritants such as pollen and pollution in contact with your skin all night long. They can interfere with skin's barrier function and cause irritation.
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FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
ARE NEVER ALLERGENIC.

FALSE

Certain fruits and vegetables contain high levels of compounds called salicylates (related to aspirin). In salicylate-sensitive individuals, foods rich in these compounds can actually make allergic symptoms such as hay fever, asthma, eczema and skin reactions worse.
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ALCOHOL CAN MAKE
YOUR ALLERGIES WORSE.

TRUE

Alcohol is a potential cause of skin allergy. In fact, scientists have shown that alcohol can make any allergic reaction worse, whether it’s asthma, allergic rhinitis, or different kinds of skin rash. It is partly due to the histamine and sulphites molecules contained in these alcoholic beverages.
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HOW TO 
AVOID SKIN ALLERGIES

If red, itchy rashes are a regular annoyance for you, the key to finding relief is to discover the culprit allergens, and banish them from your daily life. To achieve this, it is often helpful to keep a diary of when and where flare-ups occur. In more severe cases, an allergist consultation may also be in order to pinpoint your triggers.

Did you
know?

DidYouKnow_Desktop_1

Allergens transfer easily from hands to face. Doctors recommend regular hand washing and to avoid touching the face.

DEAR READERS

The information displayed here is intended for general educational purposes only and should not in any case be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any medical question.