Makeup allergy and its treatment

Common Signs of a Makeup Allergy: Some ingredients in skincare products can cause skin allergy. Allergies should be differentiated from other reactions such as skin irritation caused by active ingredients like retinoic, lactic and glycolic acid (red, flaking skin without the itch) or acne breakouts that are produced by comedogenic (pore-clogging) ingredients.

An allergic reaction from makeup, or allergic contact dermatitis often appears as red, itchy and flaky rashes that can even crack or appear like blisters in the most severe cases (when infected, for example. 

The rash typically occurs where you have applied the makeup; though it can technically appear anywhere you have had contact with the exposure. For the majority, this means the eyelids and the delicate skin surrounding the eyes, which is up to five times thinner than the rest of the skin on the face.

In some cases, skin reactions to makeup could take time and require several applications before manifesting. “One of the most important things to know about contact dermatitis, which also makes it the most challenging, is that the reaction does not always appear right away. Sometimes, you can be using the products for weeks, months or even years before you start having symptoms,” says by a dermatologist.

Some elements in a product that cause allergy

Lanolin or Wool Alcohols: Used as an emollient and lubricant often found in foundations, eye shadows, blushes, mascaras, eyeliners, moisturizers, face masks, lipsticks, and lip balms.

Nickel: A common contaminant found in pigments that are used in eye shadows, hair dyes, costume jewelry, and antiperspirants.

Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) and Methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCT): Antibacterial and anti-fungal preservatives found in mascara, makeup remover, liquid soaps, cleansers and other personal care products.

Balsam of Peru: A fragrant resin, with a scent similar to that of vanilla and cinnamon, typically added to essential oils, hair products, baby powders, and sunscreens.

How to Treat a Makeup Allergy:

Treatment of an allergic reaction from cosmetics depends on the situation, to quickly calm any redness or itching, Dr. suggests treating the area with a cool compress before applying topical creams like hydrocortisone or calamine lotion. “Finally, over-the-counter oral antihistamines may be used to reduce inflammation”. For severe reactions, or when the irritation involves swelling in your eyelids, tongue, lips or mouth and difficulty in breathing or speaking, senior skin specialist says that it’s best to consult your doctor while facing such an issue.