By Dr. Surya Bhagwati
Chief In- House Doctor
BAMS, DHA, DHHCM, DHBTC | 30+ Years of Experience
Don’t you also think that skin allergies are frustrating and can get very uncomfortable? It leads to redness, itching, swelling, and irritation of the skin. Over-the-counter treatments are many, but home remedies for skin allergy will be able to help in soothing the skin without the action of harsh chemicals. In this blog, we explore what are the home remedies for skin allergy and soothe your skin!
Cold Shower
One of the easiest skin allergy home remedy is taking a cold shower. Cold water reduces inflammation, cools the skin, and relieves itchiness. It shrinks the blood vessels to avoid releasing histamine, the chemical responsible for allergic reactions. Make sure the water is not extremely cold, because that would aggravate it further. Those suffering from heat rashes, hives, or eczema find a cold shower immensely soothing. Dry yourself gently after your shower and avoid rubbing, as this can be a potential cause of further aggravation of the problem.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is considered a perfect natural moisturizer that can help soothe dry and itchy skin resulting due to allergies. Olive oil contains vitamin E and antioxidants; thus, it promotes worn-out skin cells and shields your skin from further irritation. It also works by locking in moisture, which is very crucial for healing skin allergies, such as eczema or dermatitis. Massage a small amount of extra virgin olive oil into the affected area. You may also combine it with essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, to enhance additional healing benefits.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of those things found in the house that does wonders for skin allergies. Its alkaline nature neutralizes skin pH, thus reducing irritation and providing significant soothing to allergic reactions. Baking soda has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling and itching. Try this by mixing baking soda with water in a thick paste. Apply it to the area of the affected skin, then allow it to sit on for 10 to 15 minutes. After such time, rinse off with cool water. This method is also good for rashes, hives, and insect bites.
Medicinal Plants & Herbs
Many medicinal plants and herbs have traditionally been used as home remedies for skin allergy. The most frequently used are neem, calendula, and chamomile. These herbs are known to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and soothing properties that will help in calming allergic reactions.
- Neem: It soothes the irritated skin due to its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and reduces itching.
- Calendula: Stimulates the healing process of the skin and is generally used for rashes, eczema, and dermatitis. - Chamomile: Chamomile is a natural antihistamine and works as an anti-inflammatory agent that soothes redness and irritation.
These herbs are available in creams, oils, and teas. For immediate relief, apply them to the skin or soak oneself in a relaxing herb bath.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is one of the best home remedies for skin allergy that represents potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action. Applied to the skin, this product restores the balance of pH in the skin, decreasing allergic reactions and preventing itching. It also manages to kill bacteria that might be stimulating the skin allergy. To perform an ACV treatment, dilute the natural vinegar with equal parts of water and apply it to the site of the affected area by gently rubbing it with a cotton ball. Leave it on for a few minutes until you wash it off with cold water. You can also add a cup of ACV in your bath for overall body relief.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is soft and will comfort irritated skin, especially for people with sensitive skin who get affected more often by allergies. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe redness, itching, and irritation. In essence, oatmeal acts as a barrier on the skin, helping to lock in the moisture and protect from conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or hives. Add finely ground oatmeal to a lukewarm bath, mixing well in it, then soaking 15 to 20 minutes in it. You can also make an oatmeal paste by mixing it with water and applying directly to the irritated skin.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is noted to be greatly effective owing to its cooling and healing qualities. Though it is now more or less a staple for burns, aloe vera also works great for skin allergies. Aloe vera reduces the inflammation, cools any itchiness, and then heals the skin rapidly. It can also shield against infection from allergic reactions with its antimicrobial properties. Apply fresh aloe vera gel of the plant itself on the affected area or use store-bought aloe vera gel, but make sure that it is free from any added chemicals or fragrances that may further irritate your skin.
Coconut Oil
Another effective home remedy for skin allergies is coconut oil. It is rich in fatty acids and contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It deeply moisturizes dry, itchy skin and thus provides relief from skin allergic reactions caused by conditions such as eczema or hives. Just apply a little virgin coconut oil to the affected area, after bathing or showering while the skin is still damp. This will help seal the moisture in and protect your skin barrier.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is known to reduce inflammation, and dispel muscle pain; however, it is useful as a skin allergy home remedy too. The magnesium sulphate in epsom salt soothes irritated skin, reduces swelling, and lessens itching. Dissolve about two cups of Epsom salt in a warm bath and soak in the bath for 15-20 minutes. After the bath, towel your skin dry lightly. Such home remedies for skin allergy are effective in the treatment of contact dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.
Conclusion
Aren’t we always looking for the best home remedies for skin allergy? We got you! Try the above-mentioned skin allergy home remedy as they are natural and have a high efficiency with mildness of their action. From soothing aloe vera for itching to moisturizing with olive oil and oatmeal baths to soothe irritation, it does make quite a difference. But remember to do a patch test before applying any of these to larger areas of your skin. If the skin allergy persists or worsens, consult a doctor for immediate treatment.
FAQs
How can I get instant relief from skin allergy?
Take an immediate bath with cold water, or just apply cold compresses over the affected area. You can apply aloe vera gel, coconut oil, or olive oil to the affected area of the skin to remove itching and soothe it.
How long do skin allergies take to go away?
The duration of a skin allergy depends upon the cause and severity of the reaction. Mild allergic reactions may disappear in a few hours or days while severe ones may take weeks to recover completely.
When should I seek medical attention for a skin allergy?
If the skin allergy is followed by severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or widespread hives, then one should immediately seek medical help. Besides, if it does not improve by home remedies for skin allergy or over-the-counter treatments, then it is a good idea to consult a health professional.
If you’re still looking for more natural solutions, explore Dr Vaidya’s exclusive range of ayurvedic medicine. You can get your hands on ACV Juice and ACV Fizz as the benefits of apple cider vinegar is perfect for every skin concern from irritation to redness. Add these products to your wellness routine and get rid of the urge to itch, thank us later!
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
BAMS (Ayurveda), DHA (Hospital Admin), DHHCM (Health Management), DHBTC (Herbal Beauty and Cosmetology)
Dr. Surya Bhagwati is an established, well-known Ayurvedic expert with over 30 years of experience in treating and consulting in the field of Ayurveda. She is known for the timely, efficient, and patient-centred delivery of quality health care. The patients under her care receive a unique holistic treatment comprising not only medicinal treatment but also spiritual empowerment.