Cabin fever, more technically known as “seasonal affective disorder”, is the tendency to feel depressed during the sunlight restrictive and homebound winter months. Researchers are now conjecturing that a similar condition also affects us in the spring, not because of the lack of sunlight but because of seasonal allergies.

Skincare allergies have the same affect on sufferers and are often even more frustrating because allergy tests aren’t always designed to detect the allergens in cosmetics and skincare products. Understanding skincare allergies helps sufferers avoid allergic reactions and get through them without the prolonged pain and embarrassment.

There are two main types of skincare allergies. The first is the stinging subtypes that are characterized by stinging sensations on the skin as a result of highly sensitive nerve endings.

The second is the allergic subtype which is those that experience redness, inflammation, and itching that occurs when weakened skin is exposed to allergens and other chemicals that are able to penetrate the skin’s barrier and irritate the deeper layers of skin.

Those with stinging allergies find it a fearful experience to try new products because once an ingredient that causes the stinging to begin comes in contact with the skin you are unsure how sever the reaction will be. Stingers often react to very commonly used ingredients like: Alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, phytic acid, citric acid), Avobenzone (a.k.a. Parsol), Azelaic acid, Benzoic acid, Lactic acid, Sorbic acid, Urea and Vitamin C. Because not everyone reacts to all of these it is helpful to learn which ingredients bother you and avoid them.

Allergic skin allergies are most common to dry, sensitive skin types because compromised skin is more permeable and less able to retain moisture than a healthy barrier. This type of skin is also less able to block allergens. If you are one of the thousands of people who have allergic subtype skin, the most common allergens in skin care products are preservatives, fragrance, and formaldehyde. Unfortunately, the list of preservatives and fragrances to watch out for is long and many ingredients, like formaldehyde, go by many different names.

The good news is that once you suspect you have an allergic subtype,  dermatologist can efficiently diagnose what you`re allergic to with a patch test that reveals your body’s response to as many as one hundred potential allergens that are taped to your back; when the tape is removed 24 to 48 hours later, red or swollen areas reveal corresponding allergies.

Remember that allergic reactions aren`t caused by skin care ingredients alone. Foods, laundry detergents, or dry-cleaning chemicals can also be the culprits in skincare allergies.

For those of us who suffer from skincare conditions that are made worse by allergies, like eczema, we wish this condition was seasonal. While eczema is, as of yet, without a cure it can be treated. However, it doesn’t take much to cause a flare up and put eczema sufferers in a foul mood. Often allergens like animal dander and watery eyes affect eczema and the results can be painful and depressing. The pain and itching can distract you from your work and play and keep you up night after night. It’s easy to see how this can make depression set in.

During a bout of skincare allergies, don’t forget that you are among millions of others who understand what you’re going through. Soothe your skin with cold-compresses made of chamomile tea bags and colloidal oatmeal soaks. Wear minimal makeup. Keep smiling!

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