Hayfever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that millions of people deal with every year. While we all know about the sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes that come with it, did you know hayfever can also wreak havoc on your skin? Let’s dive into how hayfever affects your skin and what you can do to keep it happy and healthy.
How Hayfever Affects Your Skin
High Pollen and Skin Reactions
When pollen counts soar, it's not just your nose that suffers. Your skin can also react to high pollen levels, leading to irritation. This is especially noticeable on areas like your face, neck, and hands that are often exposed to the elements.
Allergic Reactions
Hayfever is basically your body throwing a tantrum over pollen. When it detects these allergens, it releases histamines, which cause inflammation and irritation. This can show up on your skin as redness, itching, and even hives.
Dryness and Dehydration
Hayfever can also dry out your skin. Constantly wiping or blowing your nose can strip away natural oils from the skin around your nostrils and mouth. Plus, antihistamines, while helpful for your symptoms, can dry out your skin as well as your nasal passages.
Symptoms of Hayfever Skin
Redness
This happens because of increased blood flow to the affected areas as part of your body’s inflammatory response.
Itching
Unfortunately, scratching can make things worse by further irritating your already sensitive skin!
Swelling
Puffiness around your eyes is often seen in people with hayfever. This is due to fluid retention caused by inflammation.
How to Soothe Irritated Skin Due to Hayfever
Soothing Products
Using products designed for sensitive or irritated skin can help soothe discomfort caused by hayfever. Look for ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile, which have natural anti-inflammatory properties.
Hydrating Products
Keeping your skin hydrated is key, especially when dealing with dryness from antihistamines or frequent nose wiping. Opt for hydrating products like moisturisers with hyaluronic acid, which helps retain moisture in your skin.
Water Mists
Water mists are a fantastic way to cool down inflamed skin and provide hydration, especially during high pollen seasons when avoiding outdoor exposure isn’t possible.
Our favourite Hayfever Season products:
Top Tip: Keep your products in the fridge for extra cooling action!
Protecting Your Skin During Allergy Season
Stay Indoors During Peak Pollen Times
To minimise exposure, try to stay indoors during high-pollen times, typically early in the morning. Check weather reports for pollen levels to plan your day!
Wear Protective Clothing
It’s a weigh up between overheating and allergies at this time of the year! Long sleeves and hats can help protect your skin from direct contact with airborne allergens, reducing the chances of reactions when you go back indoors.
Shower After Being Outdoors
Showering immediately after coming back inside can remove lingering pollen particles from your clothes and hair, preventing them from transferring to your bed linens and pillows, which could worsen conditions overnight.
Managing Hayfever During Allergy Season
Managing both the respiratory and skin aspects of hayfever is crucial for feeling your best during allergy season! By incorporating soothing and hydrating products into your daily routine and taking preventative measures like staying indoors during peak times, wearing protective clothing, and showering after outdoor activities, you can significantly reduce the impact of allergies on your life. Stay proactive and keep your skin happy and healthy all season long!
Emma - your trusted Skin Specialist
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