How to recognize contact allergy: A complete guide to healthy skin

Contact allergy symptoms: What to look out for?
The symptoms of contact allergy can vary depending on the type of allergen and individual sensitivity, but there are typical symptoms of contact allergy that you should not ignore. They usually appear at the site of contact with the allergen, but can also spread to the surrounding skin. The most common symptoms include:
•    Skin redness: The affected area is inflamed and red.
•    Itching: Intense itching is one of the most bothersome symptoms.
•    Swelling: The skin may be swollen, sometimes significantly.
• Blisters: Small, fluid-filled blisters that may burst and form crusts.
• Dryness and flaking: The skin may be dry, cracked, and flaky, especially with chronic exposure.
• Burning and pain: The affected skin may be sensitive to touch and painful.
It is important to note where the symptoms appear and whether they coincide with contact with a particular substance. For example, a rash under a watch may indicate an allergy to nickel.

When to see a doctor and diagnose contact allergy?
If you experience the above symptoms and they do not go away or even worsen, it is essential to seek medical help. A dermatologist is a specialist who deals with skin diseases and can make an accurate diagnosis of contact allergy. The diagnostic process usually involves several steps:
1.    Medical history: The doctor will ask you about your medical history, lifestyle, occupation, cosmetics you use, and any substances you come into contact with.
2.    Physical examination: The doctor will examine the affected area of skin and assess the extent and nature of the rash.
3.    Epicutaneous (patch) tests: These are the gold standard in the diagnosis of contact allergies. During the test, small patches containing common allergens are applied to the skin of the back (or arm). The patches are left on the skin for 48 hours and then removed. The doctor evaluates the skin's reaction after 48 and 72–96 hours. A positive reaction (redness, swelling, blisters) indicates an allergy to the substance.
These tests are crucial for reliably identifying the specific allergen, which is essential for effective treatment and prevention.

Practical tips for managing contact allergies
Once you know what you are allergic to, the most important step is to avoid contact with the allergen. Use a barrier cream to create an invisible shield between your skin and the allergen. Use hypoallergenic products that are specially formulated for sensitive skin. To relieve acute symptoms, your doctor may recommend topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, or moisturizing creams. Regular skin care and hydration help keep the skin barrier strong and resilient.

Understanding how to recognize contact allergies and their symptoms is the first step to relief. Don't ignore your body's warning signs, and seek professional help if you suspect you have an allergy. Proper diagnosis of contact allergies through patch testing will allow you to identify specific allergens and effectively avoid them. This way, you can minimize unpleasant symptoms and live your life without unnecessary skin discomfort.