Maybe you were deep cleaning your bathroom when you noticed that your hands were starting to itch, or maybe you tried a new scented shampoo that ended up burning your scalp. In any situation where you’ve experienced sensitivity to a household cleaner or beauty product, you may be wondering why you have symptoms when other people you know are just fine.
If you’ve had a bad reaction to a household product, you may have a chemical allergy. Symptoms of chemical allergies often affect the skin and can include:
- Red skin
- Blistering
- A burning or itching sensation
- Dry or scaly skin
- Hives
- Swelling around eyes, face, and genitals
- Sensitivity to sun
- Discolored or cracked skin
It is best to avoid triggering an allergic reaction if possible. But how do you do this when the chemical or chemicals you’re allergic to are in products that you use on a regular basis?
First, try to pinpoint what’s causing your symptoms. The first step to getting rid of your allergy trigger is to figure out what exactly it is. In some cases it may be obvious—if you used a particular type of sunscreen and that triggered an allergic reaction, then you can reasonably assume that an ingredient in that sunscreen is the culprit. However, if you don’t know what triggered your symptoms, you may have to think back to all the products you’ve used in the last 48 hours. Pay attention to products that are labeled as scented or antibacterial, and also look for products that contain thickening agents, dyes, and sunscreens, as these often cause allergic reactions for those with sensitive skin. If your condition is severe, seek medical attention and talk to your doctor about an allergy test to determine which allergen is causing the discomfort.
Banish problematic products. Prevention is better than treatment, and the most obvious solution to combatting your chemical allergy symptoms is to get rid of problematic products. If you know that a particular ingredient is a problem, look for similar products that don’t use that ingredient. For example, if the fragrance in your soap causes allergy symptoms, look for a scent-free soap.
Look for anti-allergen products. Look for household anti-allergen products, such as Pure & Gentle’s:
- Anti-Allergen Laundry Detergent
- Anti-Allergen Window and Surface Cleaner
- Anti-Allergy Solution Concentrate
- Anti-Allergen Carpet and Upholstery Shampoo
The advantage of using these products is that they are made with all-natural ingredients and, as an added bonus, they neutralize other potential household allergens like dust mites and pet dander.
While having a chemical allergy certainly isn’t fun, it’s relatively easy to combat the symptoms simply by identifying the cause and avoiding household products with this trigger.
