Skin irritation

The first is the reaction of healthy skin to contact with a substance that is toxic to the skin. This does not necessarily mean contact with acid or alkali. Many plants (root vegetables, citrus fruits, figs, sumac, hogweed, etc.) contain phototoxic substances that burn the skin when exposed to sunlight. Some medications can also cause this reaction. Toxic skin irritation usually appears in the form of blisters or, in the case of medications, a rash. Some high blood pressure pills, when combined with vitamin D tablets, can cause acne-like boils. Antibiotics and sun exposure are also generally incompatible. Irritation from plants can be prevented by wearing gloves when in contact with them. Before work, you can use Dermaguard emulsion cream, which creates a barrier between the toxic substance and the skin. This cream can keep industrial acids or lyes away from the body for several minutes, giving you time to find water to wash it off. For medicines, read the package leaflet carefully or ask your doctor.

The second type of skin irritation is a condition in which the skin becomes hypersensitive to certain substances. This most often occurs with substances that the skin comes into contact with repeatedly. This is called chronic dermatitis. Gardeners develop hypersensitivity to soil, healthcare workers to disinfectants or soaps, cleaners to cleaning products, etc. Skin irritation first manifests as redness and very dry skin. The skin then becomes scaly and flaky. Callus-like crusts may form. These crack deeply and are painful. Chronic dermatitis can only be prevented by avoiding contact with the irritant. If this cannot be avoided, gloves must be worn. Or try Dermaguard, which creates a barrier and prevents the irritant from reaching the skin.

The third type of skin irritation is atopic dermatitis. It is a congenital disorder that causes an excessive reaction of the body to a specific allergen. Unlike hypersensitivity, a single molecule of the allergen is enough to trigger a reaction. Atopic lesions appear mainly on the limbs, neck and face. Even when not active, these areas are very dry. When irritated, they become red and itch intensely. They may peel, crack or ooze. Preventing flare-ups of atopic eczema, as the condition is called, requires constant care. People with atopic eczema should avoid fermented foods and drinks, acidic fruits and vegetables. They should wear non-irritating clothing, use laundry detergents for sensitive skin and non-irritating cosmetics. Dry patches must be moisturised several times a day. Because the skin of people with atopic eczema is inherently weakened, you can help it maintain its barrier function by applying Dermaguard emulsion cream. However, first check that it does not contain any ingredients that could cause irritation.