How to get rid of an allergic reaction on the face

A person can treat and prevent their allergies, once they know what is causing them, even though they are annoying when they happen.

Allergies may be especially common on the face because the skin is more sensitive than elsewhere, and because of various face creams and other products people use on their faces.

This article looks at the symptoms and causes of allergic reactions on the face along with how they can be treated and prevented.

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The symptoms of an allergic reaction differ, depending on the trigger substance, otherwise known as an allergen.

A person could develop a red rash in one area after using face cream, while someone else who inhales pollen could have a widespread rash.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction on the face can include:

• a rash or hives
• puffy, raised areas of skin
• small, red spots on the skin
• an itchy, stinging, or burning sensation
• swollen lips and eyes
• swollen tongue
• red, itchy eyes
• watering eyes
• dry, or cracked skin

Symptoms of an allergic reaction may develop within seconds or minutes, or gradually over several hours. Symptoms are usually mild, but in rare cases can cause anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening condition.

Usually, allergic reactions can be prevented, either by taking antihistamines before coming into contact with allergens or by avoiding the allergens. Antihistamines are available for purchase over the counter or online.

Different allergies may be prevented in different ways:

• Food allergies. Always read the labels and be careful when eating at restaurants, bakeries, delis, and street stalls. Make sure people are aware of the allergy. If unsure about food, ask for more information or do not eat it.
• Animals. Limit pets to a single area of the home or try to keep them outside. Wash them and their bedding regularly. Vacuum the home frequently.
• Hay fever. Stay indoors and avoid grassy areas when the pollen count is high. If this is unavoidable, take an antihistamine and wear wraparound sunglasses to limit pollen reaching the eyes.
• Dust mites. Use allergy-proof duvets and pillows. If possible, remove carpets and fit wooden floors. Vacuum floors and change the bedding regularly.
• Mold. Keep rooms and wardrobes dry and well-ventilated. Dry clothes outside. Where possible, tackle damp and condensation problems.

Allergic reactions on the face can be triggered by something that is eaten, inhaled, or rubbed onto the skin. A person might develop an allergic reaction on their face for the following reasons:

Direct contact with an allergen

When the skin reacts after direct contact with a substance, this is called contact dermatitis. It is common on the hands and face.

This allergic reaction can occur after contact with:

• soaps, detergents, and toiletries
• makeup and other beauty products
• metal jewelry
• latex and rubber
• solvents or chemicals
• dust and soil
• plants

Symptoms of contact dermatitis include:

• hives
• redness
• itchiness
• inflamed skin
• small blisters in some cases

Symptoms usually appear within 48 hours, but they can appear almost immediately. The first exposure to a substance may not always elicit a reaction.

Non-seasonal allergies

Non-seasonal allergic rhinitis causes similar symptoms to hay fever but can be present all year round. It can be caused by:

• dust mites, which are microscopic insects that live in beds, carpets, and soft furnishings
• spores produced by mold and fungi
• urine, saliva, and dead skin flakes (dander) of animals

Food allergies

Food allergies are caused by the immune system reacting incorrectly to a particular food or ingredient. They are more common in young children, but new food allergies can develop in adults too.

Food allergies can cause facial symptoms, such as:

• red, itchy hives
• swollen lips and eyes
• a swollen tongue
• breathing difficulties
• pale or blue skin

Common food allergens include eggs, milk, nuts, and shellfish. However, any food can cause an allergic reaction, including fruits and vegetables.

In severe cases, food allergies can cause anaphylaxis.

Drug allergies

A person can also have an allergic reaction to certain medications, whether they are injected or swallowed. Symptoms are similar to those of food allergies and can also result in anaphylaxis.

Common drug allergies include:

• penicillin and related antibiotics
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen
• anticonvulsants
• chemotherapy drugs

Hay fever

Hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, is an allergy to pollen. This is usually a reaction to tree, grass, or weed pollen. It is triggered when the pollen is inhaled or touches the face or eyes

Hay fever can have a big effect on the face, with symptoms including:

• itchy, red eyes
• watering eyes
• itchy or irritated nose, mouth, throat, and ears
• pain or pressure around the nose, forehead, and temples

Hay fever can also cause coughing and sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, headache, and tiredness.

Hay fever tends to affect people the most in the months of spring and summer when the pollen count is high.

Atopic eczema

Atopic eczema, which is also known as atopic dermatitis, is characterized by red, dry, itchy, skin. The rash can affect any part of the body, including the face.

Eczema is linked to dry skin and tends to run in families. It is more common in children but can also develop in adults of any age. It is usually a long-term condition and is prone to flare-ups.

Eczema flare-ups can be triggered by:

• food allergies
• dust mites
• detergents, soaps, and toiletries
• certain fabrics
• changes in hormone levels, such as during periods or pregnancy
• cold and dry weather

The severity and coverage of the rash vary among people. Scratching the rash can result in the skin oozing fluid. Scratching also increases the risk of infection.

A person should see a doctor If they have severe, recurring, or worsening allergic reactions. The doctor will examine the symptoms and take a medical history, including other allergic conditions and family history.

If the allergy is severe or the cause is unknown, it may be necessary for a doctor to refer someone to a specialist clinic. Possible allergy tests include:

• skin prick testing
• blood tests
• patch testing
• elimination diet
• challenge testing

Allergies are also more likely to occur in people who have:

• other allergic conditions, such as asthma or eczema
• a family history of allergies or allergic conditions

Allergies are very common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 50 million people in the United States suffer from allergies each year.

Allergic reactions occur when the body’s immune system mistakes a harmless substance, such as food or pollen, for something dangerous and tries to fight against it.

When the immune system detects an allergen, it produces an antibody called immunoglobulin. This causes the body to create a chemical called histamine in the skin and other areas of the body. Histamines cause many of the key symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Researchers do not fully understand why this happens, or why allergies are on the rise. One theory suggests that it could be due to living in cleaner, more hygienic environments, which give the immune system less work to do.

Many things can cause an allergic reaction on the face. Most reactions are mild and can be treated with an antihistamine.

Speak to a doctor for severe, worsening, or recurring allergies. A very severe reaction could be a sign of anaphylaxis, which requires emergency medical attention

Preventing allergic reactions largely involves taking antihistamines and avoiding known allergens.