It is often said that makeup will help us enhance our natural beauty, and if necessary, conceal a couple of imperfections. Most of the times, it does. But what if it didn’t? Could makeup cause the opposite effect? As crazy as it may sound makeup could sometimes trigger a type of allergy known as ‘contact dermatitis’. It sounds like the end of the world, but luckily it is not. Fortunately, there’s a world of hypoallergenic products to choose from.
From a holistic point of view, we can also benefit from the healing properties of precious and semi-precious stones through Kristals product line. Together with organic ingredients, they produce a full holistic effect for a more balanced beauty, both inside and out.
What is allergy?
An allergy is an excessive reaction of our immune system for something that is usually harmless. Much has been researched on this topic and it is pretty well known how to manage the symptoms. But scientist still can’t predict when an allergy will appear. Even though there are some factors that are proving to have an impact on the development of allergic symptoms, nobody can explain when they will show up. As doctor Eric Macy, MD from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology says, “Contact dermatitis, particularly facial contact dermatitis is a very frustrating problem to deal with for both the patient and the allergist because of the natural history timeline for onset and resolution.”
How can I tell if I am allergic to makeup?
According to WebMD, “there are two types of skin reactions to beauty products. One, called irritant contact dermatitis, happens when something actually damages your skin. Your skin might burn, sting, itch, or get red right where you used the product. You might get blisters and have an oozing, especially if you scratch. The other kind of reaction involves the immune system. It’s called allergic contact dermatitis and symptoms can include redness, swelling, itching, and hives. You can get an allergic reaction on any part of your body, although it happens most often on face, lips, eyes, ears, and neck.”
Is there a treatment for contact dermatitis?
As a general rule, the treatment consists of avoiding the product that caused the allergy. Dermatologist Noëlle Sherber, from Washington DC recommends to “first see a dermatologist to settle your skin down with anti-inflammatory treatments. Start a bland skin regimen of gentle products until you determine the source of the allergy.” Dr. Macy adds “If no new exposure to the contact irritant chemical(s), then the contact dermatitis rash will clear on their own in two to six weeks as new skin grows out that does not have the chemical bound to skin proteins.”
Aside form the traditional methods, you can boost end results by using the power of Kristals healing stones to balance out both physical and emotional concerns and restore your body’s harmony. There is one gemstone for each concern, for a youthful radiance and a balanced spiritual energy.
How can I be sure which product is affecting my immune system?
Dr. Sherber explains it very clearly. “Allergies are tricky because a new product you used isn't always to blame. The reality is that you could use an eye shadow 1,000 times and on the 1,001st time, you cross over from becoming gradually sensitized without symptoms to having a full-blown allergy attack. As long as you don't have facial swelling, you can do a basic allergy test at home. If you think that you're allergic to a shimmery blush, for example, test it on your inner forearm in the same way you would on your face, applying a thin layer in the morning and removing it with cleanser in the evening as you would your usual makeup. Do this every day for a week and watch for a rash to develop. If so, you have your answer; if not, move on to another product and repeat, one by one.” Sometimes it can be more than one product triggering your allergy, so you might need to continue seeking all the culprits.
Are there skincare ingredients that are more likely to cause allergy than others?
Fragrances are most likely to irritate the skin, as they usually are alcohol-based. Some preservatives can be harmful too. You can find them in those products claiming long-lasting effects. Some metallic powders like the ones contained in shimmery eye shadows are highly suspicious of triggering dermatitis.
On the other hand, using hypoallergenic products may not always work in every case. Depending on your sensitivity level you may sometimes not be able to tolerate those products either, especially if your symptoms are ongoing. A bit of good advice might be avoiding all those products with a long ingredient list. Stick to those with few ingredients. Those are well known to be safe.
Mens Sana in Corpore Sano.
This Latin phrase that means “A healthy mind in a healthy body”, and is most widely used in a sports context, reminds us of the importance of finding the right balance between body and mind. Focusing on our emotional wellbeing will surely affect our health in a better way than we sometimes expect. Finding harmony in our whole self is the key to staying healthy and radiating beauty from inside out.
About Kristals Cosmetics: For thousands of years, gemstones have been used for health and beauty around the world. Classical texts, as well as astrological studies, refer to the healing properties of gemstones and the positive influence of gems on the mind and body. Kristals takes this wisdom to a new level, bringing you concentrations of precious and semiprecious gemstones and metals known to create protective fields around the body and blending them with powerful botanicals, naturally effective herbal essences and oils, and the best scientific breakthroughs in skincare for every skin type.
