Allergy or skin irritation?

Dr hab. Danuta Nowicka admits that in her daily work in the cosmetic clinic, she often encounters various skin reactions to the products used by her patients. Many women wonder whether what they are experiencing is an allergy or skin irritation. To appropriately adjust further skincare, it is crucial to distinguish between these two conditions. In the article below, we will examine how to differentiate an allergy from skin irritation, how to proceed in both cases, and – finally – how to avoid skin reactions.

How to Differentiate – Allergy or Irritation?

To act effectively, you must first distinguish whether it’s an allergy or skin irritation. How? You’ll recognize it by the symptoms.

Skin Irritation

Allergy or irritation? If you’re wondering about this, it’s worth knowing that skin irritation is a reaction that appears immediately after contact with an irritating substance. It can result from active ingredients in cosmetics, detergents, alcohol, or fruit acids. As a consequence of this contact, the skin becomes red, burning, and may feel tingling. These symptoms usually subside after removing the irritating substance and applying soothing products such as allantoin or d-panthenol.

Skin Allergy

Skin allergy is more complicated. Firstly, symptoms may appear with a delay – from a few minutes up to 24 hours after contact with the allergen. Secondly, allergic reactions can manifest as redness, itching, swelling, and even blistering with serous content. Moreover, these symptoms can persist despite the removal of the allergen, and the changes can extend beyond the contact area, affecting the entire body.

As the above descriptions indicate, it is not always easy to judge whether it’s an allergy or irritation, but the distinctions provided should be helpful.

Skin Irritation – Common Causes

We asked Dr. habil. Danuta Nowicka what occurs more frequently – allergy or skin irritation? According to Dr. habil. Danuta Nowicka’s observations, currently, most skin reactions are irritations. Who is most susceptible to such reactions? Women with dry, sensitive, and especially lightly vascularized skin. Moreover, they are more common in older women and those experiencing chronic stress or following strict diets. The substances that most often irritate the skin include the substances listed below.

Substances Causing Skin Irritation:

• detergents
• alcohol
• preservatives
• menthol
• fruit acids
• salicylic acid
• retinol and its derivatives
• vitamin C

How to Handle Skin Irritation?

1. Remove the irritating factor – regardless of whether it’s an allergy or irritation, immediately remove the irritating agent upon noticing symptoms.
2. Apply soothing products – such as allantoin, d-panthenol, or cool compresses.
3. Monitor the skin – if symptoms do not subside after a few days, consult a dermatologist.

Allergic Reactions – What to Do?

Allergic reactions require more decisive action. In extreme cases, such as anaphylactic shock, immediate medical assistance is necessary. The most common symptoms of anaphylactic shock include:

• difficulty breathing,
• lip swelling,
• pallor,
• slow pulse,
• low blood pressure,
• feeling unwell,
• rapid shallow breathing,
• sweating,
• loss of consciousness.

In Case of Mild Skin Allergic Reactions:

1. Remove the allergen – To do this, immediately wash the skin.
2. Apply antihistamines, which are available over the counter or prescribed by a doctor.
3. Avoid re-exposure to the allergen – How? To avoid contact with the allergenic substance, keep a detailed record of the substances that caused the reaction.

How to Avoid Allergies and Skin Irritations?

Prevention is key to avoiding both irritations and skin allergies. Here are some practical tips:

1. Avoid known allergens – if you are allergic to grasses, pollen, aspirin, citrus fruits, or seafood, avoid these ingredients in cosmetics.
2. Perform an allergy test – apply a small amount of the substance to the inner part of your forearm and observe for half an hour.
3. Check the expiration dates of cosmetics – ensure that the products you use are fresh and properly stored.
4. Choose cosmetics with a simple formula – cosmetics like Dr. Novicka are characterized by, among other things, a good composition. Quality of active ingredients and their skillful combination are more important than quantity. Discover Dr. Novicka’s cosmetics.

Allergy or Irritation – What to Remember

Although most skin reactions are irritations, allergies can also occur and are more serious in their effects. Proper diagnosis and appropriate action can prevent many unpleasant symptoms. Taking care of the skin is not only about using the right products but also about being aware of how the skin can react to various substances. This way, both in the cosmetic clinic and in home skincare, we can enjoy healthy and beautiful skin without unpleasant surprises.

Allergy or Irritation – Summary

Understanding the differences between skin allergies and irritations and knowing how to handle each case is key to healthy and beautiful skin. Prevention, thorough investigation, and conscious use of cosmetics can significantly reduce the risk of unwanted skin reactions. This way, every woman can enjoy healthy, well-cared-for skin, whether using treatments in a cosmetic clinic or performing skincare at home.

Allergy or Irritation – Frequently Asked Questions and Answers