Is Your Skin issue Actually Caused by Seasonal Allergies?
When your skin is suffering, it’s not always easy to identify the root of the problem. After all, itchy, flaky, red skin can come about for a variety of reasons, especially if you have sensitive skin or certain genetic predispositions. If you’re not sure what’s causing your skin issue(s), you’ll have a harder time treating it and preventing future problems. It’s worth noting that seasonal changes and the materials that come with them are among the leading contributors to outbreaks of rashes, hives, and other forms of skin irritation — ragweed and mold are the primary allergens in autumn. With that in mind, it’s worth considering that your skin issue(s) may be a result of seasonal allergies, especially in the fall and spring.
The only way to really find out whether season allergies are the culprit is by visiting your dermatologist. In the meantime, let’s explore what you can do to minimize the effects of seasonal changes on your skin and treat whatever problems you currently face.
How to Check a Skin Condition for Allergies
Pay Attention to all of Your Symptoms
Seasonal allergies can affect individuals in different ways. Some allergic reactions might be so mild they’re barely noticeable, while others can be so severe that they’re nearly debilitating. Additionally, some people might not experience symptoms involving their skin at all and only suffer from a runny nose, watery eyes, scratchy throat, etc. Others may bear the brunt of their seasonal allergies on their skin, breaking out in a rash or hives, encountering eczema flareups, and more. Maintaining awareness of all your seasonal symptoms will allow you to act urgently and proactively so you can curb the most severe outcomes and protect your skin.
Prepare Your Skin for Allergy Season
Once you begin to notice symptoms that suggest seasonal changes are the root problem, it’s time to make concerted efforts to protect your skin and your entire body from relevant allergens. One of the best ways to prepare your skin for allergy season is to get in the habit of taking great care of it year-round — avoid long, hot showers, moisturize your skin daily, keep your hands clean, and change your clothes if you sweat in them. These simple yet effective actions will help keep your skin strong, healthy, and hydrated, providing additional defense from environmental irritants like pollen mold, and ragweed.
In addition to boosting your skin’s natural defenses, you should also do your best to avoid seasonal allergens. This isn’t always easy, as autumn is often a great time to get outdoors. If you are outside, consider wearing a dust mask to prevent allergens from entering your nose or mouth. And when you’re inside try to keep your windows closed so allergens stay out, and, if possible, invest in air purifiers with HEPA filters to prevent mold from growing in your home.
Treating Your Allergic Skin Issues
No matter how hard you try, seasonal allergies can be tough to beat. But even if you do end up with a seasonal allergy rash or another type of breakout, there is still plenty you can do to relieve your symptoms, including taking/receiving:
- Over-the-counter oral antihistamines and/or decongestants
- Prescription medications (i.e. steroid nasal sprays, creams, and ointments for allergic dermatitis)
- Allergy shots/Immunotherapy (as ordered by an allergist to help limit the effects of certain allergens)
Your dermatologist and/or allergist can help you find the right treatments for your skin type and allergy profile. As the seasons change, your skin might start to change, too, and allergies are often part of the story. Let the experts at Premier Dermatology Partners help you identify, avoid, and treat your allergy-related skin problems. To learn more about our providers and all the services we offer, contact us today.