Most of us are probably familiar with slightly itchy and swollen eyes, breathing problems, a scratchy throat and lots of sneezing when the pollen season really starts in March. The season lasts all spring and summer, and only ends around August/September. Some of us are not affected at all, while others have to take various means to soothe the various reactions to pollen allergies. What we all have in common is that it is super important to have the right skin care when challenges arise for our delicate and sensitive skin.
How does pollen allergy affect the body?
Our immune system will naturally try to fight the pollen that we can get too much of. The immune system produces histamine, which is pumped out into the blood vessels and distributed in the skin, so that it can fight the pollen that causes trouble. However, the large amount of histamine can cause irritation/inflammation, which in turn can lead to sensitive skin. If you e.g. suffer from the skin disease rosacea, you may find that the pollen season triggers an outbreak.
Seasonal allergies, such as pollen allergies, can cause hives, dry patches and eczema. When the skin is irritated, it can start to itch, and it is difficult not to "itch back". It can leave the skin with scratches and wounds that can become inflamed. As a common term, the type of irritated and itchy skin is called 'atopic diathesis'.
Atopic diathesis – learn to limit an outbreak
With atopic diathesis, the skin becomes red and sensitive, and often there are also small dry bumps that itch. The skin may become so irritated that it may bleed slightly. You may also have swollen eyes that become red and itchy, all of which are caused by inflammation of the skin. Therefore, avoid touching the eyes, as it will only get worse.
Take care of your skin
During the periods when the allergy is on, you may experience extra or clearer wrinkles/lines. Again, it is the inflammation in the body that shows itself. When the skin becomes dry and irritated, tiny tears can appear, which also dehydrate the skin. Therefore, please use skin care that is soothing, cooling and moisturizing. We recommend our light and super nourishing day cream, that has a calming effect and contains SPF15. And to your dry and cracked hands that are ours hand cream with coconut oil, coconut oil, ginger and cucumber soothing and nourishing. Your lips are also extra exposed with allergies and atopic diathesis - therefore use a lip balm that is super moisturizing and protects your lips.
In the worst cases, you may have to apply cream from the doctor (hydrocortisol) so that the tears heal without inflammation. Studies also show that people who have suffered from childhood eczema in the early years are more likely to develop seasonal allergies later in life.
You must do this when the first symptoms appear...
1. Stay indoors whenever possible.
2. Close the windows.
3. Wash the bedding often.
4. Reduce stress so you reduce the histamine in your body.
5. Use mild beauty products.
6. Avoid AHA, scrubs and other active ingredients that can irritate the skin.
7. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet before, during and after the pollen season, so that the body is better strengthened against inflammation.
8. Feel free to take oil as a dietary supplement, so that the skin is optimally moisturized from the inside when the pollen season dehydrates the skin.
9. Use creams that contain plenty of moisture and nourishment.