Allergic to cosmetics is a reaction in which the skin shows an allergic reaction to chemicals in cosmetics, resulting in red skin, swelling, rashes, itching, or other symptoms such as dermatitis, peeling skin, allergic contact dermatitis, photosensitivity, infection, hives , or other dangerous complications . Even if the cosmetic is a natural or organic product, it can cause an allergic reaction. People who are allergic to pollen or food are at a higher risk of being allergic to cosmetics.

Why are there allergic reactions to cosmetics?

Cosmetics are products used to enhance beauty, cleanse and protect the skin, hair or teeth, and to change the appearance of the wearer, but do not change the structure or texture of the product. Most cosmetics contain fragrances, sunscreens, colors, metals, resins, preservatives and many other substances, so much so that it is sometimes impossible to identify which substance is causing the user’s allergies.

The chemicals found to cause the most frequent cosmetic allergies are:

• Fragrances  There are over 5,000 fragrances or essences used in cosmetics such as perfumes, shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, deodorants and facial cosmetics. Of these, 70-80 percent of allergens can be detected through skin testing.
• Preservatives  Most liquid cosmetics contain preservatives as an ingredient, whether it’s skincare products or shampoos. These substances are used to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can cause allergic contact dermatitis.
• Paraphenylenediamine in hair dyes  is a popular ingredient in hair dyes because it has the ability to make hair color look natural. However, it can cause allergic reactions, such as allergic rashes around the eyelids, ears, or swelling of the face and scalp.

The degree of allergic reaction to cosmetics 

Some users may experience only minor allergic reactions that go away on their own, or may experience severe allergic reactions that require medical attention. The severity of symptoms may also depend on the reaction to the ingredients in each cosmetic. เล่น UFABET ผ่านมือถือ สะดวกทุกที่ ทุกเวลา The degree of allergic reaction to cosmetics is as follows:

• Irritant dermatitis  is a common condition that can happen to anyone, especially those with sensitive skin. After coming into contact with cosmetics, patients will develop a rash, itching, redness, and the skin may peel or blister. If the patient has a severe allergic reaction to cosmetics, the reaction may occur shortly after exposure. However, if the allergic reaction is not severe, it may take several days or weeks for the allergic reaction to appear.
• Contact urticaria:  Patients will experience a local burning sensation, a pin-prick feeling, shortly after coming into contact with cosmetics. The symptoms may last for minutes or hours, followed by the development of a rash ,  which is a swollen, red, itchy rash on the skin. The above symptoms usually disappear on their own within 1 day.
• Contact dermatitis  is caused by the body’s immune system overreacting to an allergen. After exposure to the substance, the person will develop a skin rash, itching, swelling, and redness that will continue to increase for more than 12 hours and is usually most severe around the second day after exposure.
• Photosensitive rash:  Ingredients in cosmetics can react with sunlight and cause a skin rash.
• Severe allergic reactions,  although rare, can cause nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Patients should see a doctor immediately, as severe allergic reactions can be fatal.

How to treat cosmetic allergies

If you have an allergic reaction to cosmetics, stop using them and wash them off immediately. If the allergic reaction is not severe, it may go away on its own in a short period of time. Or, it may be treated by applying 1 percent hydrocortisone cream to the affected area of ​​the skin. Always consult a doctor or pharmacist about how to use the medicine and precautions before using the medicine.

However, if self-treatment does not work or the symptoms become more severe, the patient should see a doctor. The doctor will usually consider treatment based on the symptoms, the area where the symptoms occur, and the severity. In some cases, treatment with steroids and antibiotics may be required, especially when the sores start to blister and become infected.

Allergic to cosmetics, how to prevent?

Here are some ways to prevent allergic reactions to cosmetics:

• Buy cosmetics from a reliable and trusted store.
• Choose cosmetics that have labels that clearly state ingredients and how to use them.
• Choose cosmetics that contain fewer ingredients to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful substances or substances that cause allergies.
• Choose cosmetics that are labeled as hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, or non-comedogenic.
• Carefully consider the ingredients to avoid allergens, especially if you have a history of allergies.
• Test for skin allergies before using any new cosmetic product by applying it to a narrow area or testing it on your forearm.
• Close the cosmetic lid tightly after use to prevent contamination from dust, dirt, or germs.
• Avoid spraying perfume directly onto your skin. Spray perfume onto your clothes and let it dry before wearing.
• Avoid using any cosmetics that you have a history of severe allergic reactions to.