Tip Tuesdays: Ragweed Allergies

Tip tuesdays: It’s Ragweed Season! The Effect of Pollen on your skin

Ragweed is upon us! This common allergen starts blooming in late summer and continues throughout the fall. About 15% of people in the US suffer from ragweed allergies. In addition to coughing and sneezing, environmental allergies affects eczema and can cause red, itchy irritation around the delicate skin of the eyes and mouth. Here’s what you can do to help your skin: 

1. Use an anti-itch lotion with pramoxine (such as this) on irritated skin on your arms, legs, or neck. This will help prevent scratching, which can make already-sensitive skin even more inflamed.
2. Take a daily antihistamine as soon as you start feeling allergy symptoms to calm the skin from within. 
3. Keep your skin well moisturized to prevent dryness and cracking. By protecting the skin barrier, you can minimize your chance of getting irritation and inflammation.

Contact our office today to get help with itchiness, eczema, and all of your skin questions.

Sources:

1. “Ragweed Pollen Allergy”. Rev. J. Poole, MD, Aug. 2023. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. 
2.  “Eczema, Atopic Dermatitis and Allergies: What Is The Connection?” L. Schneider, M.D., 7 Aug. 2016 (updated 15 Aug. 2023). National Eczema Assocation.