Springtime means that plants, trees, and grass are bursting into bloom—and creating pollen that causes allergies. But seasonal allergy symptoms aren’t limited to a runny nose and itchy eyes. Allergies can impact the skin too, causing rashes and irritation. Here’s what you need to know about the connection between spring allergies and skin health, plus 6 tips for managing your skin this season.
Understanding Seasonal Allergies
Allergies occur when the body comes into contact with a substance, also known as an allergen, that causes the immune system to overreact. Common allergens include food, mold, pet dander, medications, latex, stinging insects, and pollen. When a person with allergies ingests, touches, or breathes in an allergen, their body creates IgE antibodies that produce an allergic reaction. Allergy symptoms can range from mild to life threatening.
Seasonal allergies, commonly known as hay fever, are triggered by pollen. Pollen is a fine airborne powder produced by plants, trees, grasses, and weeds. It can be breathed in or come into direct contact with skin. For many people, seasonal allergies are worst in the spring when plants are blooming.
Can Spring Allergies Affect Skin?
Yes, they can. If you’re wondering “why does my skin itch in the spring?,” the answer may be allergies! Seasonal allergy symptoms generally include a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and itchy and watery eyes, but can also include dry, itchy skin. Spring skin allergies are sometimes referred to as “hay fever rash." Allergies can trigger the following:
- Hives: Hives are itchy, raised bumps or welts on the skin that can occur as part of an allergic reaction.
- Allergic contact dermatitis: Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with a substance that causes an allergic reaction.
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Eczema: People with eczema have a weakened skin barrier, which means that exposure to seasonal allergens can cause an eczema flare. Eczema is part of the atopic triad, which means if you have eczema, you’re likely to have allergies and asthma too. Read more about eczema in spring.
6 Tips for Managing Your Skin This Spring
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Avoid direct contact with triggers
Headed outside to work in the garden or enjoy the warming temps? Covering up your skin can help you avoid direct contact with pollen and grass. If you’re doing yard work, wear long sleeves and gloves. If you’re lounging around outside, sit on a blanket or in a folding chair instead of directly on the grass.
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Rinse off after spending time outside
Taking a shower or bath after you’ve been outside can help remove pollen that’s stuck to your skin or your hair so it won’t cause further irritation. The steam from the shower may also help with nasal congestion. Be sure to bathe in lukewarm water and use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers.
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Stay inside on high pollen days
Staying indoors can help prevent exposure to airborne allergens, especially when the pollen count is high. Keep your doors and windows closed and consider using an air purifier or running the AC.
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Moisturize regularly
Moisturizing helps strengthen your skin barrier and protect it from environmental allergens. Opt for a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizer with skin-supporting ingredients, like our Eczema Cream.
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Dry your clothes in the dryer
Line drying your laundry outside allows pollen to land on your clothes and linens, which can then irritate your skin. During allergy season, opt for the dryer instead. If you have sensitive skin, always be sure to use a fragrance-free detergent and wash your bedding weekly. Click here for more laundry tips for sensitive skin.
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Talk to your doctor
If you’re experiencing an allergic reaction that includes swelling and hives, or a rash on a widespread area of your body, seek medical care immediately.
Allergies can have a big impact on quality of life, especially when your skin is affected. Visit your primary care provider, allergist, or dermatologist to discuss allergy testing and treatment.
Add Gladskin to Your Spring Skincare Routine
If you have reactive skin, minimal ingredients are a must. Gladskin’s microbiome-friendly skin and body care products are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and use as few ingredients as possible. Learn more.