In Australia, spring and summer are classic times for seasonal allergies, also known as hayfever, which are most commonly caused by exposure to pollens.
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a normally harmless substance and mounts an immune response to it, producing antibodies and inflammatory molecules like histamine. These inflammatory molecules result in the allergy symptoms we are all familiar with: sneezing, congestion, and runny eyes and nose. Skin symptoms are also common and include swollen eyes, patchy skin redness and skin irritation.
The bad news is, these skin changes can upset your skin’s barrier function, making it easier for allergens and irritants to penetrate the skin.
How to reduce exposure to pollen
It’s always better to prevent an allergy developing in the first place. Here are some common recommendations for reducing your exposure to pollens:
- Avoid going outside and keep windows closed on dry windy days when pollen counts are highest (you can also check the pollen count online for high risk days).
- Reduce the amount of pollen entering the home by leaving shoes outside, changing clothes and showering on entering the home, and vacuuming regularly with a HEPA filter.
- Use an air purifier or air conditioner with a HEPA filter to reduce levels of pollen inside the home.
How to treat seasonal allergies
Seasonal allergies can usually be kept under control with over-the-counter oral antihistamines, decongestants and nasal spray. To some extent these can help with skin symptoms as well.
In addition, you can try at-home remedies including:
- Take a shower in lukewarm water to remove allergens from your skin.
- Apply a cold compress to puffy eyes to reduce swelling.
- Itchy eyes may be relieved by using refrigerated lubricating eye drops.
- Avoid scratching - it further irritates your skin.
- Apply a good quality, low allergen moisturiser after your shower. Ideally it should be rich in barrier-restoring oils, antioxidants and molecules known to calm the skin such as shea butter.
Which moisturiser is best for irritated skin?
If you are familiar with Mokosh, you will know that our moisturisers are free from emulsifiers, preservatives and other synthetic ingredients that are common allergens. In addition, they are rich in antioxidants, barrier-building omega-6 fatty acids, and other important nutrients. They are the perfect choice for soothing skin irritations resulting from seasonal allergies.
As an all over body moisturiser to help calm inflamed, irritated skin, we recommend using our Everybody Cream. The Everybody Cream can also be used for the face or, if a lighter option is preferred, choose the Skin Saviour Cream. Both these creams have been formulated without essential oils, and contain protective, calming botanical oils.
We hope your spring and summer prove to be allergy-free and that you have a chance to step outside and enjoy the glorious spring weather!
Leave a comment