We’ve all had an allergic reaction to a new makeup product at some stage. The variety of ingredients which are used in the production of different makeup products makes occasional allergic reactions an inevitability.
Allergic reactions are caused when the immune system overreacts to an allergen. It mistakenly identifies the allergen (the substance which causes the reaction) as a threat or attack and responds accordingly.
Sometimes known as a hypersensitivity reaction, allergic reactions begin when the immune system calls upon its foot soldiers in the war against bacteria, antibodies. The antibodies fight the allergen, thinking that it poses a serious threat to the body.
The allergic reaction is the result of this fight the body wages against the substance. Whether it’s dog hair or foundation, your body thinks it’s something much more serious and responds accordingly.
Allergic reactions can manifest in different ways for different people. For some, they result in a red, itchy rash across the affected skin. For others they can cause puffy, bloodshot eyes. For some they can cause nasal congestion and for others they result in an itchy throat.
For most of us, the occasional allergic reaction isn’t a big deal. We might even have one that is so mild that we don’t realise what it is. However, for those with allergies or sensitive skin, they can be much more severe and even debilitating in some extreme cases.
If you are someone who suffers with allergies, knowing exactly which ingredients cause a reaction is very important. You can do this by booking an allergy test with your family doctor or local physician.
It’s also important to keep a hydrocortisone cream or similar medical treatment at home in case you experience an unexpected, severe reaction.
However, if you are someone who simply suffers from cosmetics allergies and generally sensitive skin, this might not be necessary. In this case, knowing how to treat your sensitive skin and any allergic reactions you may experience should be enough.
These home remedies have been found to be highly effective at soothing skin which has taken an allergic reaction to beauty products.
In our bodies, we have cannabinoid receptors for when we consume cannabis. Studies have shown that CBD can prevent cells from releasing histamines. During an allergic reaction, mast cells produce histamines which carry with it very familiar symptoms such as a runny nose, coughing, sneezing and watery eyes, etc. CBD can reduce swelling, manage pain, open up air passageways, rids of nasal pressure and more.
However, there are still not enough studies done on this topic to fully state it’s credibility. If you have had an allergic reaction, please reach out to your doctor or look through our other ways to combat allergies.
While someone with severe allergies is likely to need the help of medication to relieve their symptoms, most people who experience skin reactions to makeup and skincare products won’t need this. A few home remedies kept at the ready can be enough to calm your skin right down.
Aloe Vera: Aloe vera has been synonymous with burns for centuries. The gel found in the leaves of this plant has incredibly cooling, soothing properties. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory. This makes is very effective at soothing rashes and skin irritation.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is one of the most useful ingredients in your store cupboard, although you might not realize it. The highly hydrating oil which is packed with vitamin E can be used to tackle dry patches of skin, hives and other symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Oatmeal: Ever heard of taking an oatmeal bath for chicken pox? There’s a reason why which slightly bizarre home remedy has stood the test of time. Oatmeal is beautifully gentle on the skin while still being effective enough to combat inflammation. This is why it remains such a common treatment for allergic contact dermatitis today.
Chamomile: Chamomile essential oil boasts an impressive collection of medicinal qualities, including anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. These qualities make it the skin’s best friend. A few drops mixed with a carrier oil in a warm bath could bring you instant relief.
Baking Soda and Coconut Oil: Numerous studies have suggested that baking soda can be used to promote skin health at home. This is also true of coconut oil. Mixing the two ingredients together can produce a powerful balm when allergic reactions strike.
Avoiding allergic reactions isn’t always easy. In fact, sometimes it’s impossible. Especially when you don’t know what you’re allergic to, or what the ingredients used in your makeup and skin care products are. This is why familiarizing yourself with what triggers a reaction for you is important.
Cosmetic products, hair dyes, perfumes, and even skin care products can all cause irritant contact dermatitis, or allergic reactions. This is why option for fragrance free, unscented products designed for sensitive skin is your best defense.
However, even if do you continue to experience the occasional reaction, knowing which home remedies to use can provide fast acting relief and have you back to your best self in less than 24 hours!
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