Skin allergies are a common condition that usually causes itching, redness, and swelling on the skin. Such allergies can be caused by a number of things like allergens, pollutants, or even underlying health conditions.
However, looking for the cause and its solution is important. The cause might differ from oily or junk foods, to even certain plants around you or even the fabrics you wear. Your skin coming into contact with harmful chemicals may also be one of the reasons for these allergies.
Finding out the cause behind the problem might help you cure it as soon as possible. This blog will talk about some effective Indian home remedies for skin allergies.
First, let us take a look at what causes skin allergies and rashes.
Causes of Skin Allergies
Skin allergies are caused by an overactive immune response to substances that are usually harmless to most people.
Common skin allergy triggers include:
1. Contact Dermatitis: This happens when the skin comes into direct contact with things that irritate or cause an allergic reaction. Common causes include:
- Irritants: Harsh soaps, detergents, and cleaning chemicals.
- Allergens: Certain cosmetics, plants like poison ivy, and metals like nickel (found in jewellery and buttons).
2. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Eczema is a skin condition that often runs in families and can be triggered or worsened by various factors:
- Allergens: Dust mites, pet dander, and certain foods like nuts or dairy products.
- Environmental Factors: Dry air, cold weather, and stress
Also Read: 10 Benefits of Neem Leaves For Skin & How to Use It?
3. Urticaria (Hives): Hives are itchy, raised welts on the skin, and they can be caused by:
- Allergens: Foods like shellfish, nuts, and eggs; medications; insect stings; or infections.
4. Allergic Reactions: These can cause skin symptoms like rashes and itching, along with other systemic symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat. Common triggers include:
- Foods: Peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and eggs are common food allergens.
- Medications: Antibiotics like penicillin or sulfa drugs can trigger allergies.
- Insect Stings: Bee or wasp stings can lead to allergic reactions.
5. Foods: Certain foods may cause allergic reactions to the skin due to some compounds present in them. Common foods include:
- nuts, peanuts, cow’s milk, eggs, seafood, etc.
- Additives in bread, cereals, etc.
6. Fragrances: The fragrant chemicals in certain products may also be a reason for skin allergies. This may be triggered by:
- beauty products, deodorants, detergents, or soap
7. Some Metals: The small molecules of metal may travel to our lymph nodes-causing skin allergies.
- Example Nickel, Cobalt, copper, and chromium
8. Some Plants: Plant-associated allergens may cause skin allergies when you come in direct or indirect contact with any such plant.
- These plants may be: poison ivy, ficus, stinging nettle
9. Dyes and fibres: Some people may experience skin allergies when they come into contact with certain clothing dyes or synthetic fibres. Fabrics like:
- Fabrics like polyester or nylon can trigger skin reactions, leading to redness, itching, or rashes.
Also Read: How To Get Spotless Skin Naturally at Home?
10. Bites of wasps or bees: Insect stings, particularly from wasps or bees, can cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
11. Saliva, urine, or hair of pets (majorly cats and dogs): Pet allergens can cause skin allergies in some individuals. It may be caused by:
- The proteins found in pet saliva, urine, and hair
12. Antiseptic creams containing Chlorhexidine: Some individuals may be allergic to the active ingredient, chlorhexidine.
Symptoms of Skin Allergy
Skin allergy may be caused by a number of reasons. The symptoms of skin allergy may include:
- Rashes are red in color
- They will be itchy
- Burning or itching sensation
- Flaking or scaling on the skin
- You may experience pain
- There may be blistering or swelling
10 Home Remedies for Skin Allergies
1. Haridra (Turmeric)
- Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it a popular remedy for various skin conditions, including allergies.
- Make a paste using turmeric powder and water or milk and apply it to the affected area. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes before washing it off gently.
- Turmeric may temporarily stain the skin yellow, but it’s not harmful and will fade away with time.
Also Read: Aloe Vera Juice: The Secret of Glowing Skin and Hair
2. Beetroot
- Beetroot contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce skin irritation and redness caused by allergies.
- You can apply fresh beetroot juice or a paste of boiled and mashed beetroot on the affected area. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and rinse with cool water.
- Alternatively, drinking beetroot juice may also have some benefits for the skin due to its antioxidant properties.
3. Coconut Oil
- Coconut oil is rich in fatty acids, which help to moisturize and soothe irritated skin.
- Apply virgin coconut oil directly to the affected area and gently massage it into the skin. Repeat several times a day for relief.
- The oil creates a protective barrier on the skin, which can reduce itching and redness.
4. Neem
- Neem, also known as Indian lilac, has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for skin allergies and irritations. This Indian home remedy for skin allergy is really effective and is commonly known in Indian households.
- Make a paste using neem leaves or use neem oil and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing off.
- Neem products can sometimes be harsh on sensitive skin, so it’s advisable to do a patch test before applying it to larger areas.
5. Kalonji (Black Seed)
- Kalonji, or black seed, has been traditionally used to treat various skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Make a paste using kalonji seeds and water or a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 20 minutes and rinse off.
- Some people may be allergic to kalonji, so perform a patch test before applying it widely.
Also Read: 23 Amazing Health Benefits of Tulsi Leaves
6. Sandalwood Paste
- Sandalwood has soothing and cooling properties, making it an excellent remedy for skin allergies and irritations.
- Make a paste using sandalwood powder and water or rose water, and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on until it dries and then rinse off with water.
- Sandalwood paste can help reduce itching and inflammation, providing relief to irritated skin.
7. Mint Leaves
- Mint leaves contain menthol, which has a cooling effect on the skin and can alleviate itching and redness.
- Crush fresh mint leaves to extract their juice or make a paste, then apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for some time before washing it off.
- Mint leaves can provide a refreshing sensation and may help soothe skin allergies.
8. Flax Seeds
- Flax seeds are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit skin health.
- Grind flax seeds and mix them with water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it sit for a while before rinsing off.
- Consuming flax seeds regularly can also promote overall skin health and may help reduce the frequency of skin allergies.
Also Read: 15 Impressive Benefits of Aloe Vera for Hair, Skin and Health
9. Aloe Vera Gel
- Aloe vera is well-known for its healing and soothing properties for the skin.
- Apply pure aloe vera gel extracted from the plant or use commercially available aloe vera gel to the affected area. Leave it on until it dries and then rinse off gently.
- Aloe vera can help reduce inflammation, itching, and redness, and it promotes skin healing.
10. Oats
- Oats have anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties, making them beneficial for various skin conditions, including allergies.
- Grind oats into a fine powder and mix with water or milk to make a paste. Apply it to the affected area and let it dry before washing off.
- Oats can help relieve itching and irritation, and they also act as a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells.
11. Carom Seeds (Ajwain)
- Carom seeds have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help soothe skin allergies and reduce itching.
- Grind carom seeds into a fine powder and mix it with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on for some time before rinsing off.
- Carom seeds can be especially helpful for relieving itching caused by insect bites or skin irritations.
12. Licorice (Mulethi)
- Licorice root has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can be beneficial for various skin conditions, including allergies.
- Prepare a paste using licorice powder and water or rose water and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before washing off.
- Licorice can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with skin allergies.
Also Read: Ayurvedic Skincare Routine and Haircare – Ways to Balance Your Doshas Naturally
13. Mango Leaves
- Mango leaves have anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for managing skin allergies and rashes.
- Crush fresh mango leaves to extract their juice or make a paste and apply it to the affected area. Allow it to dry before rinsing off gently.
- Mango leaves can help calm irritated skin and promote healing.
14. Fenugreek Seeds (Methi)
- Fenugreek seeds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can aid in reducing skin irritation and redness.
- Soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight and make a paste the next morning. Apply the paste to the affected area and let it sit for some time before washing off.
- Fenugreek seeds can provide relief from itching and may help soothe allergic reactions on the skin.
15. Manjishtha
- Manjishtha, also known as Indian madder, is an Ayurvedic herb known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties.
- Make a paste using manjishtha powder and water or aloe vera gel and apply it to the affected area. Leave it on until it dries and then rinse off gently.
- Manjishtha can help reduce redness and itching caused by skin allergies and may promote skin healing.
When to Take Medical Help?
You should get in touch with a medical expert if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- If you do not seem to notice any improvement in skin allergy with home treatments within a week.
- If the skin allergy happens again after being treated completely
- If you experience itchiness in the rashes
- If your rashes hurt
- If there are blisters on your skin
- If you feel the rash is infected (redness, swelling, or warmth)
In such cases, you must not rely on home remedies. If the rashes or allergies get worse, consider to consult a qualified doctor.
Summing Up
If you notice that your skin is red accompanied by pain and swelling, it might be a rash. It is important to find out the cause of the allergy in order to get the right treatment. These home remedies can work effectively if your allergy is in its early stage. As mentioned, you should consult a doctor if the situation worsens.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best home remedy for skin allergies?
There are various home remedies that can help cure skin allergies. The most effective ones include:
- Neem leaves
- Aloe vera
- Oats
- Haridra (turmeric)
- Mint Leaves
2. What is the Ayurvedic treatment of skin allergies?
You can use some Ayurvedic herbs as a treatment for skin allergies. Some of the common herbs effective for this include Neem, Manjistha, and Khadira.
