Allergy-Prone Skin: Causes and Signs | La Roche-Posay Australia

From redness and bumps to burning and rashes, most people will experience skin allergy signs at some point in their life. However, with many skin conditions presenting similar symptoms, it can be confusing whether you’re experiencing skin allergic reaction symptoms.

Read on for a detailed guide to understanding skin allergies, covering all the key questions such as how a skin allergy looks and feels, potential causes and how to avoid triggering an allergy. We’ll also share some skincare recommendations for sensitive skin allergy-prone skin from our Toleriane range. This range consists of minimalist formulas free from known allergens like alcohol, preservatives and fragrance.

WHAT IS A SKIN ALLERGY?

Skin allergies happen when the skin reacts to a substance that is usually harmless, also known as an ‘allergen’. Dry skin prone to irritation and redness can often be explained by a skin allergy of some kind, as this skin concern is quite common and skin allergy symptoms can develop for the first time in adults as well as children.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A SKIN ALLERGY?

How to identify a skin allergy can be quite challenging, since there are other skin conditions that can cause similar symptoms. However, familiarising yourself with the key characteristics of a skin allergy will help you recognise the issue sooner rather than later.

So, what does a skin allergy look like? Visible symptoms range from mild to severe and include redness, bumps, swelling, scaly patches, hives and rashes. Your skin may also have a burning feeling.

WHAT CAUSES SKIN ALLERGIES?

Allergens can be plants, metals, chemicals and more. Skin allergy causes are numerous, but some are much more common than others. For example, nickel is a common skin allergen found in jewellery, zippers and bra hooks. Other common skin allergens include fragrances or preservatives in personal care products or laundry powders and plants like poison ivy.

SKIN ALLERGY VS. ECZEMA

If you’re experiencing redness or itchy-prone skin, it can be unclear whether your symptoms are caused by an allergy or eczema. Unlike skin allergies which can sometimes happen as a one-time occurrence, eczema is a chronic skin condition that often starts in childhood. Also known as atopic dermatitis, eczema presents as a red rash most commonly on areas of the skin that crease such as knees and elbows.

When it comes to identifying an allergic reaction vs symptoms of eczema, there are a few key factors to consider. If your symptoms persist or recur over time and are accompanied by dry skin, it’s possible you have eczema. As with any persistent skin issue causing you concern, we recommend seeking advice from your healthcare professional.

WHAT IS A SKIN ALLERGY TEST?

People presenting with signs of a possible skin allergy often need to undergo a patch test to help determine what allergen might be triggering their symptoms. During a patch test, tiny amounts of different substances are applied to the skin. The area is then left undisturbed for several days to see if a reaction is produced. Skin allergy tests can be a highly effective way to identify the cause(s) of your allergy symptoms so you can adjust your lifestyle to avoid future symptoms. Speak to your healthcare professional about patch testing.

GENERAL CARE TIPS FOR ALLERGY-PRONE SKIN

To put things simply, the best way to prevent the signs and symptoms of a skin allergy is to avoid exposure to potential allergens. If you do end up experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, fortunately there are a plethora of ways to help ease the discomfort and help prevent further exacerbating the reaction.

If possible, opt for loose clothing made from natural fibres to avoid friction on irritation-prone skin. Remedies such as calamine lotion or a lukewarm bath adding oatmeal or milk may help to soothe discomfort. Allergy symptoms often subside on their own with time, but it’s advisable to consult a doctor or dermatologist if you’re concerned or your symptoms persist.

Another way to care for allergy-prone skin is to ensure your skincare routine is free from potential allergens. Our Toleriane Range is allergy-tested, fragrance-free and enriched with La-Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water to hydrate, soothe and support sensitive and allergy-prone skin. Making some simple adjustments to your daily skincare regime to remove potential allergens can help soothe sensitised skin and minimise the risk of potential reactions.

Swap out your makeup remover for our fragrance-free Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser and follow up with our Toleriane Ultra Dermallergo Serum, formulated with 0.1% Neurosensine to soothe and hydrate ultra sensitive and allergy-prone skin. Seal in the hydration by smoothing on our Toleriane Ultra Eye Contour Sensitive Cream made for irritation-prone skin, before finishing up with the Toleriane Ultra Light Sensitive Moisturiser. By following these recommendations for allergy-prone skin, you can rest easy knowing your skin routine is allergen-free.

Now that you’re fully informed about what causes allergy in skin and how to avoid exacerbating the symptoms, you may also find it useful to educate yourself about some of the other causes of sensitive skin.