Skin Symptoms (Itching, Hives, Etc)

Question

Is it possible to be allergic to sunscreen?

Answer

Yes, it is possible to be allergic to sunscreen! Sunscreens have been associated with both allergic contact dermatitis and photoallergy, both of which require some further definition. With allergic ,a href=”https://acaai.org/allergies/types/skin-allergies/contact-dermatitis”>”contact dermatitis,” a person typically develops an itchy skin rash only where the product is applied to the skin, and this is not unlike poison ivy, as the reaction may worsen over several days. In “contact photoallergy,” the reaction is due to the combination of applied substance and sunlight; therefore skin symptoms appear only once the product-laden skin is exposed to the sun. It can be rather difficult to distinguish the exact type of allergic reaction to sunscreen, because sunscreens are applied to areas exposed to sunlight! Sunscreen allergy (from both allergic contact dermatitis and photoallergic reactions) can cause itching, blisters, red skin, and skin swelling. People may have allergic skin reactions to chemical UV absorbers or even inactive ingredients in sunscreen, such as fragrances, formaldehyde releasers, preservatives, and lanolin. If a person develops allergic skin symptoms to sunscreen, patch testing can be performed. Patch testing involves placing small patches or discs, each containing a separate chemical, on skin for a period of time. This helps identify the cause of the reaction, and can be done by an allergist or a dermatologist.Options for people who have allergic skin reactions to sunscreens include protective clothing, and sunscreen formulations that contain ingredients that scatter or reflect (rather than absorb) UV radiation. Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are common UV blockers that have not been reported to cause allergic skin reactions such as contact dermatitis or photoallergy.

Question

Can I really be allergic to my cell phone? I have an itchy rash on my face that just won't go away. Recently, I watched a story on the news that talked about people being allergic to their cell phones, and wonder if it can actually happen?

Answer

Fortunately, you cannot be allergic to your cell phone per se. However, you can be allergic to metallic parts/cases of cell phones. Metals such as nickel, cobalt, and chromium are all possible causes of an allergic skin rash (called allergic contact dermatitis) from cell phone usage. A preliminary study in 2012 by Mucci and colleagues, reported at the 2012 ACAAI Annual Meeting, found nickel and cobalt in the highest concentrations in used cell phones, while an earlier study did not find high levels of nickel and cobalt in new cell phones. The higher levels in the used phones are probably due to wearing of the plastic coating on metal keys/parts occurring over time. Models that operate without keys, including the iPhone and Motorola Droid, both tested negative (keep in mind after-market cases may contain metal, however).Cellular phone dermatitis typically starts as an itchy rash on the side of the face where the phone is touched to the head, especially around the ear. People with this problem do not always report a history of known allergic reactions to metals. Allergic contact dermatitis is diagnosed based on the history and the results of patch testing to metal(s), which can be performed by your allergist. There are also several nickel and cobalt spot test kits available that allow one to test various objects for the release of nickel or cobalt ions.

Question

I have experienced hives that come and go daily all over my body during the past 6 months. I am a 32-year-old woman who has never been diagnosed with allergies or other medical conditions. Other than treatment for my hives, I take no other medications. I have changed my diet but without improvement. I was seen by an allergist who explained no cause could be identified to explain the hives, and laboratory tests were normal. My primary care doctor recommended a variety of non-sedating over the counter antihistamines, but I had no response. The constant itching is driving me crazy! Prednisone is the only drug providing relief, but hives come right back after stopping, and I don't want to stay on this! Why am I getting these hives and what can be done at this point?

Answer

Chronic hives, also called urticaria, affect 1% of the general population, and are seen in women twice as commonly as men. Hives persisting for 6 weeks or longer are labeled as being chronic. It is very rare to identify an underlying cause or explanation, and laboratory testing rarely yields an answer. Although most people with chronic hives respond to non-sedating antihistamines, there are a variety of other anti-inflammatory medications that can be used to treat difficult cases. Additionally, some older sedating antihistamines can be helpful in some. Although prednisone, an oral steroid agent, works very well in controlling severe outbreaks of hives, it also has long-term side effects making it undesirable for chronic use. There are, however, non-steroid drugs with anti-inflammatory properties that can be used; some of these drugs, when added to daily antihistamines, have been shown improve or completely control difficult-to-treat hives. Such medications include leukotriene antagonists, hydroxychloroquine, dapsone, azulfidine, omilizumab, cyclosporine, and others. Because many of these latter agents have potential side effects, they should be prescribed by allergy or dermatology specialists with experience in treating chronic hives.

Question

I have been trying to find out the difference between atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis. I have noticed a rash, severe at times while wearing certain clothing. It is usually around my feet and ankles. The rash goes away after removing the clothing and boots and never occurs in my normal clothing. Any information you may have will be beneficial.

Answer

Apples and oranges. Atopic dermatitis is a pruritic dermatitis that occurs more commonly in individuals with either a personal or family history of “hay fever”, asthma or eczema. This is associated with the presence of the “allergic” antibody which is IgE. Allergic contact dermatitis has nothing to do with the “allergic antibody” but it is an immune mediated skin rash at the site of contact with a chemical allergen. An example of this type of rash would be the rash with poison ivy or the skin reaction to the nickel metal in costume jewelry in an “allergic” individual. This is medicated by sensitized T-cells and not IgE. I hope this helps. Just as apples and oranges are both fruits, atopic dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis both affect the skin.

Question

I've tried looking online to no avail - just found out that I'm allergic to an ingredient used in the vulcanization of rubber ( i.e. rain boots, the floor of the gym, the car steering wheel and a number of other things). I get the impression that latex is rubber or rubber is latex and am trying to find out.

Answer

Allergic reactions to rubber can be due to: 1. Reaction to the natural latex is called an immediate hypersensitivity reaction manifesting as hives, rhinitis (sneezing, runny nose), asthma (wheezing, difficulty of breathing) and/or anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction with drop of blood pressure, throat swelling). In most cases, these clinical events could be confirmed by a special blood test. Patients with this type of allergy must avoid both airborne and contact with rubber products and carry and epinephrine self injection kit. 2. Allergy to one of the many chemicals used in the manufacturing of rubber. This is called a delayed hypersensitivity reaction. The natural latex sap is processed to make rubber products. The types of chemicals used in the manufacturing of rubber products such as rubber gloves include accelerators, activators, vulcanizing agents, etc. These allergies manifest as eczema or itchy rashes to the area of contact and in such instances, patch tests to various rubber mix chemicals are appropriate. Patients with this form of allergy must avoid direct contact with latex and rubber products.Very rarely some with eczema, especially the health care workers may have both types of allergies. Since there are tests for both types of allergies, they should be done (if suspected) to determine if one needs to anticipate a more severe allergic reaction to natural latex (contained in rubber products such as gloves) and carry an emergency epinephrine kit. Otherwise, people allergic to the vulcanizing agent in rubber should avoid direct contact to rubber in products such a boots. Barriers such as socks may not always work since sweating, friction, etc. may cause some leaching of the rubber to the skin. Plastic rain boots and other footwear are available. Most gym floors have hardened rubber and would not contaminate towels just by mere leaving the towel on the floor and have indirect contact with your skin. Significant direct contact is usually needed to cause a problem. Stuffing in sofa cushions are not in direct contact with the skin unless the covering has been compromised. If in doubt, a plastic barrier between the latex stuffed cushion and the covering can be done. Again, in a person with a history of contact dermatitis to rubber accelerators, direct significant contact to the rubber product should be avoided.

Question

I need some more information have had one year of terrible itching and rashes from allergies to propolis and phenolexenol, so just tossed all makeup and cleaners and got vegan goods. What else can I do?

Answer

Propolis is commonly used in cosmetic and medicinal preparations because of its antiseptic, antiinflammatory, and anesthetic properties. Propolis is found in a number of “natural” products, including lip balms, cosmetics, lotions and ointments, shampoos, conditioners, and toothpastes. If you tested positive to propolis (by patch test, for contact dermatitis) and your allergist/dermatologist feel that this is the cause of your itching, a list of products that are free of propolis can be obtained from the Allergic Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) website, by your physician. Just throwing out your old cosmetics and getting new ones (even vegan goods) does not guarantee that the new cosmetics do not have the things you are allergic to! Chemicals may have many names and natural does not always mean it cannot cause an allergy. Remember, poison ivy is natural as well. 2-Phenoxyethanol (you probably mean this instead of phenolexenol) is an antibacterial chemical and is most commonly found as a preservative in cosmetics and skin care products. Again, a list of products without this allergen (from the ACDS website) can help you avoid exposure.

Question

I ve noticed recently that when I scratch myself I m breaking out in hives in that area! Am I allergic to myself, should I be worried? What type of treatment is available for this?

Answer

No, you are not allergic to yourself; exposure to certain types of physical stimuli like pressure (like scratching yourself), cold, and heat can cause hives. Doctors refer to this type of skin condition, which accounts for nearly 20 percent of hives as physical urticaria (the medical term for hives). One of the most common mechanisms of physical urticarial that has been identified is dermatographism. The name of this skin condition means skin writing in Greek (derma is skin, graphe is writing). The ability to write letters or symbols by stroking your skin (with your fingernails or a retracted ball point pen, for example), which results in blanching (whitening of your skin) that’s followed by redness and swelling (hives), is the most obvious sign of this often harmless form of hives. Dermatographism affects approximately 5 percent of the U.S. population and can persist for years until the outbreaks disappear. Common triggers for dermatographism include rubbing, scratching, or stroking the skin. Tight clothing or pressure from leaning against hard surfaces (a chair or desk) can also cause this form of hives. A rarer, more severe form of dermatographism can occur following bacterial, fungal, or scabies infections, or after treating a bacterial infection with penicillin. If you feel you have any of these then you should speak to your allergist.

Question

I experience hives whenever I go outside in freezing weather or dip into cold water. What can I do?

Answer

You likely have what’s called cold urticaria, in which the stimulus of cold releases histamine into the body and causes hives and swelling. Cold urticaria symptoms occur soon after the skin is exposed to cold temperatures or cold water.

The condition is mostly not serious but severe reactions, or anaphylaxis, do occur – typically when the whole body is impacted by cold, such as when swimming in cold water. This can cause a drop in blood pressure, fainting and even death. Swelling of the tongue or throat can lead to difficulty breathing.

To prevent symptoms, it’s obviously important to avoid cold temperatures and cold water. If you live in a cold weather area of the country, stay indoors as much as you can when temperatures dip. Don’t go swimming in cold water. Avoid the freezer section at the grocery store if you have severe symptoms.

There’s no set temperature that can cause symptoms. Patients with cold urticaria have different thresholds. For some it has to be below freezing, but for others it’s cool weather. If symptoms are severe or impacting your quality of life, or if you experience other non-skin symptoms along with cold urticaria, then it’s time to consider seeing a specialist such as a board-certified allergist.

For most patients, antihistamines should clear up hives. Antihistamines can also be helpful with managing the condition; when patients know they will be exposed to cold, taking an antihistamine can help the body better tolerate it.

Cold urticaria patients typically won’t need an epinephrine auto-injector unless they are at risk for a severe reaction, or anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is the only medication proven to stop anaphylaxis.

An allergist in a location where it doesn’t get extremely cold will likely only prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector if it’s requested, or if the patient is worried his or her airways could swell as a result of a reaction. Allergists in colder parts of the country may have a different approach.

Allergists test for cold urticaria by taking an ice cube, wrapping it up in plastic, and placing it on the skin for a short period of time. If it’s cold urticaria, a hive will pop up.

Some rare diseases are associated with cold urticaria. Talk with your allergist if your symptoms are accompanied by joint pain or fever following exposure to cold. It’s important to provide a detailed history of your symptoms, including family history, to the allergist for a complete diagnosis.

Question

I have red itchy bumps on my arms that look like mosquito bites (but are not), and they leave marks. Could this be an allergic reaction to something?

Answer

Based on your description of symptoms, you could be experiencing an allergic reaction to something in your environment; such as something you are eating, something touching your skin or something you are inhaling from the air. You should discuss your symptoms, and potential strategies for diagnosing and managing them, with your allergist.

Question

I have hives, and have been to an allergist, but haven't been able to determine a cause. I have Hepatitis B - could my hives be related to that?

Answer

Unfortunately, many patients who struggle with urticaria (or hives) are unable to discover a cause.

Urticaria has been reported in association with a wide variety of viral illnesses.  It is certainly possible that your urticaria could be related to Hepatitis B infection. It is also possible that your urticaria is not related to Hepatitis B infection.

Acute urticaria has been observed in the early stages of Hepatitis A, B, and C infection.  There is a 2012 case report published in the medical literature of a patient with chronic urticaria following an acute infection with Hepatitis A.  

Your allergist can help with personalized recommendations and strategies for your evaluation and treatment.

Question

I had a serious allergic reaction to mango, and the skin on my face is red, itching, and pimply. I was given medication to relieve the allergy, and have been taking it for two days, but my skin is still red, dry, and burning. Can I apply lotion or cream to help calm my skin?

Answer

Allergic contact dermatitis to mango is a serious problem for some people.  The skin of mangoes contains a chemical called urushiol, which is actually the same allergen found in poison ivy and similar plants (poison oak, poison sumac).  Unfortunately, once the reaction has progressed to the point of causing blisters, topical medications are not always helpful.  Oatmeal baths and using a cool, wet compress may help to soothe your skin. 

If the rash continues, you should see your allergist, as it is possible to develop a secondary skin infection due to the irritation and skin breakdown from the allergic reaction.  

Question

I have a reaction to sunscreen. I can put it on indoors and I'm fine. But the moment I step outside for 30 minutes or more, I get red and swollen, and then itchy bumps form. This lasts for several days after use, so now I don’t use any sunscreen. I've tried most of the sensitive brands, too. Am I just out of luck?

Answer

It sounds as if you are experiencing a photo-allergic reaction or photocontact dermatitis, meaning that the sunscreen product in combination with UVA/B rays causes you develop an allergic reaction.  Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3), the most widely used UVA blocking agent, is the most common cause of sunscreen-induced photo-allergic contact dermatitis. Other sunscreen agents known to induce photo-allergic reactions are the benzophenones, cinnamates, and dibenzoylmethanes.

Titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are inorganic filters which have excellent coverage for UVA1, UVA2 and UVB. I would suggest either one or a combination of these agents, as they will offer broad-spectrum protection with minimal irritation, sensitization, and skin penetration. Look for ones with the fewest added ingredients. Try to avoid fragrances. Although rarely used these days, always avoid PABA-containing products. 

Belly Buttons & Babies Sunscreen Lotion (SPF30) and Honest Mineral Sunscreen Spray (SPF30) both appear to fit the recommended criteria above, though I can’t specifically recommend either, as I have no personal experience with them.

You might also consider clothing products and hats that offer sun protection.

Your allergist can help with personalized recommendations and strategies.

Question

Can hives appear around the ankle or feet area?

Answer

Yes.  Hives (or urticaria) are itchy pink or pale swellings that appear as welts and can occur on any part of the skin.  Each individual hive typically lasts minutes to hours before fading away without leaving a mark.  New hives can arise as old ones fade away.  They can vary in size from a few millimeters to inches, and can blend together to form larger swellings.

Hives result from blood plasma leaking through small gaps between the cells lining small blood vessels in the skin.  Histamine is a natural chemical released from allergy cells, which lie along the blood vessels in the skin.  Histamine causes the itching, swelling, and red color of hives.

Question

Wherever my skin touches itself, I break out in an itchy red rash. It happens on my underarms, under my breasts, on my legs if I sleep without bottoms, in the crease of my arms if bent together for a while, etc. What is causing this and what should I do to relieve it?

Answer

These symptoms may be due to a condition known as dermatographism, a form of physically-induced hives. In patients with dermatographism, superficial pressure applied to the skin triggers release of histamine from mast cells in the skin. This condition may affect up to 5% of the general population. Once released, histamine causes immediate itching as well as wheals (localized hives) and redness. Dermatographism tends to be a chronic condition that can last for months or years. In many cases symptoms can be prevented by taking a non-sedating antihistamine on a daily basis.  

Question

I'm 16 years old and live in Branson, Missouri. I seem to get hives around the same time each year, though I haven't changed anything in my life. Last year, it began around the end of August/early September and they were gone by May/June. This year, it has happened again. The hives are around my underwear line, my back, and my sides. The hives are raised and are no bigger than a quarter. As the weather gets colder, they worsen. Why am I getting these hives?

Answer

From your description of your symptoms, it sounds like you may be struggling with cold urticaria. In patients with cold urticaria, hives develop after being exposed to cold temperatures, and contact with cold objects.  Cold urticaria can be a primary condition or related to an underlying medical condition. Some patients with cold urticaria have a family history of cold urticaria.  

Unfortunately, for many cases of cold urticaria, a cause cannot be determined.

Your allergist will likely do some testing, to include possibly placing a cold object on a portion of your skin.  Additional studies may be indicated, based on your personal and family history.

Avoidance of cold exposures and non-sedating anti-H1 antihistamines are generally the first treatments for cold urticaria. If these strategies are ineffective, higher antihistamine dosages may be tried, or other agents may be attempted.  You should discuss your symptoms, an evaluation tailored to you, and potential strategies for managing symptoms with your allergist.