Allergic skin reaction: symptoms and treatment

Skin allergies are very common in Germany. Around one in five adults has an allergy. The symptoms are redness, itching and swelling.

The triggers are varied. These include pollen, food and cosmetic products.

An accurate diagnosis and the right treatment are important. They help to reduce symptoms and improve your life. In this article, you can find out more about skin allergies, their symptoms and how to treat them.

Important findings

• Almost 20% of adults in Germany have an allergy
• Typical symptoms: redness, itching, swelling
• Triggers: pollen, food, cosmetics
• Correct diagnosis is crucial for treatment
• Various treatment options are available
• Targeted measures can alleviate symptoms

What is an allergic skin reaction?

An allergic skin reaction occurs when our immune system reacts too strongly. This can lead to various symptoms, which can vary depending on their severity.

Development of a skin allergy reaction

A skin allergy goes through a sensitization phase. During this time, our immune system learns to react to certain substances. After this phase, our body reacts to even small amounts of the allergen.

The skin barrier is very important here. It is the first line of defense against allergens.

The immune system and allergens

In the event of an allergy, our immune system reacts too strongly. Common triggers are care products and foods such as cereals containing gluten and nuts. Insect poisons, medicines, detergents, textiles and metals such as nickel can also be triggers.

More than 4,000 substances can trigger allergic skin reactions.

Frequency of skin allergies in Germany

Many people in Germany suffer from skin allergies. Almost a fifth of the population is sensitized to at least one allergy trigger. Chronic hand eczema affects around 10% of Germans.

If there are more than three contact allergens, this is referred to as multiple sensitization.

Allergic skin reaction: typical signs

Allergic skin reactions are manifested by various skin symptoms. An allergic skin rash can occur in various forms. It can severely impair your quality of life. Do you know the typical signs of a skin allergy?

Redness and swelling

An allergic skin reaction often causes redness and swelling. These symptoms can be localized or spread over a large area. In Germany, over ten million people are sensitized to at least one substance, which can lead to such skin reactions.

Itching and burning

Severe itching is a characteristic feature of allergic skin reactions. It can be accompanied by a burning sensation. These symptoms often occur with contact allergies, which affect around six million people in Germany.

Hives and wheals

Hives are characterized by pink to red wheals on the skin. These itchy bumps can appear on various parts of the body, such as the arms, legs, face, back and décolleté. Hives are one of the most common allergic skin reactions.

Blistering and weeping areas

Some allergic skin reactions lead to the formation of blisters and weeping areas. This is particularly the case with contact eczema. The affected areas of skin can also become scaly and dry.

Triggers for allergic skin reactions

There are many triggers for allergic skin reactions. If we know these, we can better avoid allergies.

Contact allergens in everyday life

Contact allergens are everywhere. Jewelry with nickel, perfumes with fragrances and preservatives in cosmetics can cause skin reactions. Natural remedies, tattoo inks and latex are also often triggers.

Food-related skin reactions

Food allergies can cause skin reactions. Nuts, eggs and milk are often the cause. It is interesting to note that pollen allergens and foods have similar structures, which can cause cross-reactions.

Medicines and cosmetics

Drug allergies often show up on the skin. Prescription and over-the-counter medications can trigger reactions. Cosmetics also contain ingredients that cause allergic reactions.

Environmental factors and allergens

Environmental allergens such as pollen, house dust mites and mold spores can cause skin reactions. These allergens can be found outdoors and indoors and vary depending on the season.

Treatment options for skin allergies

There are various ways to treat skin allergies. The right therapy depends on the allergy. You should always consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Drug therapy

Antihistamines are important for skin allergies. They are available as tablets, sprays or drops. They often help well with hives.

Cortisone preparations are used for acute inflammation. These should be used short-term and under the supervision of a doctor.

Skin care and protective measures

Special skin care is important for allergy sufferers. Products such as TOLERIANE Dermallergo strengthen the skin. Cleansing should be gentle.

Thermal water sprays can help with acute reactions.

Alternative treatment approaches

Hyposensitization helps with some allergies. It is particularly successful with insect bites. The treatment requires patience and can take a long time.

Cromoglicic acid can also help by blocking histamine. This prevents symptoms.