What is skin allergy?

What Is a Skin Allergy? Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment, Skin Allergy refers to an immune reaction causing redness, itching, rashes, or hives when the skin comes into contact with allergens like pollen, chemicals, metals (nickel), or certain fabrics. Common types include eczema, contact dermatitis, and urticaria. Treatment involves avoiding triggers and using antihistamines or topical steroids.
Types of skin allergies:

1. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema):

Chronic irritating inflammation, usually in skin folds.
Common in children; linked to asthma & hay fever.

2.Contact Dermatitis:

Allergic (e.g., nickel, latex, perfumes).
Irritant (e.g., harsh soaps, chemicals).

3.Urticaria (Hives):

Red, itchy welts triggered by food, meds, or stress.
Cold urticaria (due to cold exposure).

4.Angioedema:

Deep swelling under skin (often with hives).
Can affect lips, eyes, or throat (serious if severe).

5.Photosensitive Dermatitis:

Rash from sun exposure + allergens (perfumes, sunscreen).

6.Allergic Purpura:

Small purple spots due to blood vessel inflammation.

Causes of Skin Allergies:

Skin allergies develop when the immune system overreacts to innocuous chemicals (allergens), resulting in an inflammatory reaction. Common causes include:

1. Contact Allergens (Contact Dermatitis):

Nickel (jewelry, belt buckles, watches)
Fragrances & Preservatives (perfumes, cosmetics, soaps)
Latex (gloves, medical devices)
Dyes (clothing, hair color)
Poison Ivy/Oak/Sumac (urushiol oil causes rash)

2. Airborne Allergens (Atopic Dermatitis/Eczema):

Pollen (seasonal allergies)
Dust Mites (bedding, carpets)
Pet Dander (cats, dogs)
Mold Spores (damp environments)

3. Food Allergies (Can Cause Skin Reactions):

Peanuts, shellfish, eggs, milk, soy, and wheat are common triggers.
Symptoms: Hives, itching, swelling (angioedema), eczema flare-ups

4. Medications (Drug-Induced Skin Allergies):

Antibiotics (Penicillin, Sulfa drugs)
NSAIDs (Aspirin, Ibuprofen)
Antiseizure Drugs
Symptoms: Rash, hives, severe reactions (Stevens-Johnson syndrome)

5. Insect Stings/Bites:

Bees, Wasps, Mosquitoes (can cause localized or systemic reactions)
Dust Mites & Bed Bugs (itchy red bumps)

6. Heat & Sweat (Cholinergic Urticaria):

Exercise, hot showers, or stress can trigger hives.

7. Sun Exposure (Photosensitivity):

Certain medications, perfumes, or sunscreens can cause allergic reactions when exposed to UV light.

8. Genetic & Environmental Factors:

Family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema increases risk.
Pollution, harsh weather, and stress can worsen skin allergies.