Dr. Pranjal Shamsher throws light on some of the factors that cause face allergies.
Why is facial skin prone to allergies?
The skin on the face is the most exposed part of our body, especially to the sun and atmospheric pollution. Apart from these usual triggers, the facial skin also falls prey to various cosmetic allergies. Products such as moisturizers, fairness creams, foundations, cleansers and toners have become part of our daily grooming habits. Certain ingredients used in cosmetics, such as fragrances, bleaching agents and preservatives can act as antigens, triggering an allergic reaction.
What are the symptoms of facial allergy?
The facial allergies are generally of two types, irritant contact and allergic contact dermatitis. Irritant contact dermatitis develops when an irritating or a harsh substance damages the outer layer of the skin. It initially causes an itchy, red rash but later on there are alterations in skin texture and color. Areas like the eyelids and the lips, where the skin is very thin are very prone to irritant dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis develops due to an allergy to a specific ingredient in a product. It can cause severe redness, swelling and a hive-like rash all over the face. Sometimes the whole face is covered with tiny skin colored bumps. In severe cases, the entire facial skin turns dark and leather-like. The patient feels the need to constantly moisturize the skin because it never feels sufficiently moisturized. Simple things like smiling or opening the mouth to eat can become difficult for the patient.
Can facial allergies be prevented?
Identification of the trigger is half the job done. Once the specific irritant or allergen is identified, treatment can be started in that direction. Generally staying away from the trigger for a certain period of time is advised to develop resistance. In cases where exposure to the triggering factor cannot be avoided, for example if the patient is allergic to certain weather changes or to the sun, a specific hypoallergenic skin care regimen may be required to minimize the effect of the trigger.
Dr. Pranjal Shamsher is the first Skin Doctor in Bangalore to offer natural, non-surgical and non-invasive treatments for skin disorders. With over 25 years of experience in the field Dermatology, she has devised a unique Multi-Therapy approach to treat the most stubborn, obstinate and long-standing skin disorders with a skin-friendly and 100% side-effect free results. Her integrated and Multi-Therapy approach has helped many chronic disease sufferers to recover safely without any side-effects.
Dr. Shahid Shamsher is one of India’s first certified Trichologist practicing in the field of Trichology for 27 years and is recognized as one of the Best Hair Doctor in Bangalore. He is the only Trichologist in India to be simultaneously certified from the U.K, Australia, and India.
