Skin allergies can be triggered by a wide variety of substances, including:

• Cosmetics, perfumes or hygiene products.

• Nickel (present in jewellery and watches).

• Latex or rubber gloves.

• Detergents and cleaning products.

• Topical medications.

• Food (skin reactions secondary to food allergies).

• Insect stings.

• Pollen, dust mites or animal epithelia.

There are various clinical forms of skin allergies, each with specific characteristics:

1. Atopic dermatitis

This is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin, common in children, although it can also persist or appear in adults. It causes dryness, intense itching, redness and eczematous plaques, especially in skin folds (elbows, knees, neck).

2. Urticaria

Characterised by the sudden onset of raised, reddish, itchy hives or welts. They may vanish in a few hours or last for several days. It can be acute or chronic and it is sometimes impossible to identify its cause.

3. Angioedema

This is deep swelling of the skin or mucous membranes, mainly affecting the eyelids, lips, hands, feet or even the throat. It can occur together with urticaria or in isolation. If it affects the respiratory tract, it is a medical emergency.

4. Allergic contact dermatitis

This occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an allergenic substance. The lesions usually appear in the area of contact (hands, neck, wrists, ears, etc.) after hours or days, in the form of eczema, redness, scaling or small blisters.

• Reddening or inflammation of the skin.

• Itching (pruritus), sometimes very intense.

• Appearance of hives, welts or blisters.

• Dry or flaky skin.

• Burning or stinging sensation.

• Localised swelling (angioedema).

• Changes in the colour or texture of the skin.

In some cases, symptoms may spread to other parts of the body or get worse with scratching, sweating, or heat.

Diagnosing skin allergies requires a full medical assessment, which may include:

• Clinical examination and analysis of the patient's environment.

• Patch test to identify contact allergens.

• Skin prick tests if other associated allergies are suspected.

• Skin biopsy in atypical or treatment-resistant cases.

Correct diagnosis is key to avoiding exposure to the allergen that is responsible and establishing effective treatment.

The treatment will depend on the type of skin allergy, its cause, and its severity. It generally includes:

1. Avoiding contact with the allergen.

• Removing any suspected cosmetics or products.

• Wearing cotton clothing, without any irritating labels.

• Avoiding jewellery that contains nickel or allergenic materials.

2. Pharmacological treatment

• Oral antihistamines: reduce itching and inflammation.

• Topical or systemic corticosteroids: useful for moderate or severe outbreaks.

• Topical immunomodulators: for persistent atopic dermatitis.

• Self-injectable adrenaline: if there is a risk of severe angioedema or anaphylaxis.

3. Basic skin care

• Moisturise the skin daily with emollient creams.

• Use mild or unscented soaps.

• Avoid very hot showers and aggressive drying.

• Keep your skin hydrated all year round, especially in winter.

• Identify and avoid your common triggers.

• Wash new clothes before wearing them.

• Wear gloves for household chores involving irritants.

• Always consult a specialist for persistent outbreaks.