Top Tips for Allergy Sufferers
Summer is finally here, bringing those gorgeous sunny days, warmer weather and brighter evenings. With many of us spending more time outdoors. It's the perfect time to enjoy those days out in the sun. However, if you suffer from seasonal allergies you may not be as pleased be outside.
What are seasonal allergies?
Seasonal allergies are an allergic reaction that occurs at specific points of the year, usually due to pollen exposure as pollen particles are released from trees, weeds or grass. These reactions can also occur outside of allergy season, however these are usually caused by dust mites or pet dander. These allergies are also known more commonly as hayfever or allergic rhinitis. This grass or tree pollen is released into the air and can cause an inflammation of the nasal cavity leading to a number of allergy symptoms. Some of these symptoms include nasal congestion, sore or itchy throat and red or teary eyes.
As pharmacists we are well aware of the anxiety seasonal allergy sufferers experience when it comes to managing their symptoms. So, we have put together a list of some of our top tips to help you combat those allergy symptoms and stop them from taking the fun out of summer.
Salt Therapy
If your airways are affected by allergies, Salt therapy is an excellent treatment to try. Many people suffer from a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy teary eyes, scratchy throats and a recurrent cough, which can really affect your sleep. Salt therapy and the Salin Plus Air Purifier is a natural therapy that many of our customers swear by. The salt particles break up the mucus plugs in your airways and sinuses, allowing more space for air to flow through. In addition, this results in less sleep disturbance as air tends to flow freely during sleep. It releases discomfort and flushes out the triggers for allergies.
Avoid Exposure
If you are allergic to pollen and suffer from hayfever make sure you sleep with the windows closed and avoid drying clothes outside on a clothes line. Airborne pollen spores move through the air and can stick to clothing so wash your face and change your clothes when you come home from any extended period outside.
Take Care of the Skins Barrier
Allergens can penetrate the skin's protective layer when the skin is dry and the barrier is impaired, this can lead to itchy and irritated skin and even a rash. To prevent those allergens getting beneath the skin it is essential to implement an emollient routine for anyone who suffers from allergies. We recommend moisturising every day, regardless of the current state of the skin to prevent dryness. Consistency is key here. One of our favourites can be used by the entire family from birth! The Lipikar AP+ from La Roche-Posay contains an anti-irritant that will soothe and also help restore the skin's barrier.
Care for Your Eyes
Very often sensitive areas such as our eyes can become very irritated in allergy season. It is important to soothe and protect the eye area if you suffer from allergies. If you suffer from irritation around the eyes, itching or dryness the Bioderma Atoderm 3 in 1 is an incredible product to try. It immediately and durably soothes sensations of itching, reduces skin dryness and redness, moisturises and nourishes the skin and even removes makeup, pollution particles and impurities
Nourish and Protect the Skin
If you suffer from irritation and inflammation on any areas of the face it is important to include an SPF in your routine, it will protect from the very harmful UV rays that will further irritate the skin. Choosing an SPF like the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Rosaliac AR SPF30 will not only protect your skin from harmful UV rays, but also hydrate the skin and strengthen the skin’s barrier against external aggressors.
If you have an inflammatory skin condition or you shave your face daily, it is really beneficial to use a moisturising and soothing mist to boost your skin’s moisture and comfort levels throughout the day. Try G5’s The Mist Revitalising, this will help to soothe, repair and revitalise the skin, while also keeping it hydrated.
Don’t let allergies stop you from enjoying your summer! If you are suffering from allergies and you’re seeking advice on how to manage them, speak to one of our pharmacy teams today.
