Skin Allergy Soap Tips and Considerations

If you're living with itchy, irritated skin, chances are you've sought out a healing skin allergy soap more than once. Taking extra care to read the ingredient lists on your personal care products can be helpful if you're familiar with your triggers. You may also find that you need to switch up your soaps and lotions with seasonal changes. For example, your skin may be more reactive when colder, harsher weather conditions arrive. So, how can you find a good soap for skin allergy concerns that will support calm, healthy skin year-round?

What Are Skin Allergies?

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), people experience allergic contact dermatitis (i.e., skin inflammation) when their skin comes in contact with a particular allergen that triggers an immune system response, leading to symptoms such as rashes, swelling, and tenderness.

What Causes Skin Allergies?

Causes of allergic reactions on the skin may include:

• Plants, such as poison ivy or poison oak
• Latex, including balloons, rubber bands, or bandages
• Fragrances in personal care items, such as soaps, shampoos, and lotions
• Detergents and household cleaners with harsh ingredients
• Extreme temperatures
• Medications
• Sunlight

Additionally, people with eczema are more likely to experience contact dermatitis—which is a substantial number of people. The AAAAI reports that approximately 20 percent of infants and 10 percent of adults develop eczema. Cold weather in particular can lead to severe eczema outbreaks and dry, cracked skin.

What's a Good Soap for Skin Allergy Concerns?

Whether you have dermatitis, eczema, or reactive skin during the cold, dry winter months, you can help soothe and protect your body's largest organ by choosing a gentle skin allergy soap.

One of the most important things you can do if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin is to keep your skin moisturized. Hydrated skin means a stronger skin barrier, which is your natural protective layer against allergens and other environmental irritants. Opt for soaps that include super-hydrating ingredients, like Tom's of Maine Creamy Coconut Natural Beauty Bar with Moroccan argan oil and virgin coconut oil.

Avoid soaps with artificial colors, fragrances, and preservatives, and skip harsh ingredients like exfoliants and alcohol. If you're particularly sensitive to fragrance, try a fragrance-free option, such as Tom's of Maine Fragrance-Free Sensitive Natural Beauty Bar formulated with aloe vera.

Supporting Calm, Healthy Skin

In addition to finding a quality skin allergy soap that works for you, moisturize regularly with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer and keep your bath water warm—not piping hot. You can also try a humidifier to bring more moisture into the air, especially if you're using an indoor heating system (this dries the air out even more). If you can't seem to find relief, contact a skin care professional to identify the cause of your allergies and ensure you're using the best products for your condition.

Ready to learn more about how to support your skin health and help combat reactive skin during the winter months? Check out this guide to natural skin moisturizers.

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