5 Ways Seasonal Allergies Can Affect Your Skin and What to Do About Them
5 Ways Seasonal Allergies Can Affect Your Skin and What to Do About Them
A sore throat and itchy eyes aren’t the only side effects of seasonal allergies. In fact, allergens can also affect the skin in major ways. In addition to making the skin feel dry and uncomfortable, the change of seasons, climate and pollen in the air can cause common issues like eczema flareups, puffiness and even wrinkles (more on that later).
Curious to know more? We tapped a top dermatologist to find out how seasonal allergies can affect the skin—and what to do about it—ahead.
1. Red, Irritated Skin
One of the most common effects of seasonal allergies? Irritated skin. “People who have seasonal allergies will most likely suffer from a runny nose,” says board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Debra Jaliman. “This makes the skin under the nose red and irritated,” she adds. “The skin might feel raw and tender to touch and even bleed.”
To protect the skin around your nose, Dr. Jaliman recommends using facial tissues infused with aloe, as well calming, barrier-protecting creams with soothing and inflammation-fighting ingredients like calendula and chamomile.
2. Eczema Flare-Ups
For those who experience eczema, it should come as no surprise that seasonal allergies can trigger flare-ups. “Seasonal allergies are one of the most common triggers in an eczema flare-up,” says Dr. Jaliman. “Eczema appears on the skin as dry and red patches,” she adds.
For eczema flare-ups, turn to rich moisturizer that delivers exceptional hydration while helping provide immediate relief and long-lasting protection for dry, distressed skin.
3. Dry, Itchy Skin
Another way seasonal allergies can affect your skin? They can cause dry skin. “Seasonal allergies can affect your skin by making it red, dry and flaky,” says Dr. Jaliman. “This is a result of the body trying to ward off irritants, such as pollen.”
For those who experience dry skin caused by allergies, consider switching out some of your staple products—like cleanser—for more hydrating options that gently purify your skin without irritating it.
4. Puffy Eyes
Virtually any cause of inflammation to the eye area may manifest as eyelid swelling or puffy eyes, although allergic reactions are likely the most common cause. With allergic reactions, the eyes may also be red and itchy as well as swollen.
To counter this, Dr. Jaliman suggests “using an eye cream with caffeine, hyaluronic acid and green tea,” as they can help with the puffiness and dark circles that occur when it’s allergy season.
5. Eye Wrinkles
Think allergies don’t cause wrinkles? Think again. “The eyelids are a very delicate area and when allergy season is at its peak, rubbing itchy eyes may feel good and give some relief from irritation, but it can also lead to wrinkles,” says Dr. Jaliman.
To avoid wrinkles caused by allergies, Dr. Jaliman suggests keeping your hands away from your eyes. In addition to using eye drops, you can also apply a nourishing anti-aging eye cream that strengthens the skin around your eyes by encouraging the production of collagen and elastin.
Ease Your Allergy Symptoms
Another way to ease congestion and allergy symptoms is by treating it from the inside. We’re talking about invoking the sinus-opening powers of essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender and menthol. One of our favorites? This Deep Lavender Rub from Farmaesthetics. Not only does it open up our nasal passages so we can breathe easily, it also moisturizes our skin, soothes tense muscles and helps us rest better.