Allergie

THE LINK BETWEEN ALLERGIES AND SKIN DISEASES

DER ZUSAMMENHANG ZWISCHEN ALLERGIEN UND HAUTERKRANKUNGEN

Allergies and skin diseases are often closely related. If someone is affected by a skin condition, it’s very possible that flare-ups of the condition can be triggered by an additional allergy.

Allergies are a common immune system reaction to substances that are typically harmless. These substances, known as allergens, can include pollen, animal dander, certain foods, and medications. When an allergic reaction occurs, symptoms such as asthma, sneezing, skin rashes, itching, redness and swelling of the mucous membranes, and watery or burning eyes may arise.

A common skin condition associated with allergies is atopic dermatitis. This condition can be triggered by allergic reactions to certain substances that come into contact with the skin, such as latex, nickel, or fragrances in cosmetics. People with atopic dermatitis often have an increased sensitivity to allergens like dust mites, pollen, animal dander, or certain foods.

 

The connection between allergies and skin diseases can be divided into two groups.

SKIN REACTIONS TO AN ALLERGEN

Immediate-Type Allergy (Type I)

In Type I allergies, also known as immediate-type allergies, the body produces specific antibodies immediately after contact with a particular allergen. Approximately 90% of all allergies fall into this category. In the case of chronic skin conditions such as neurodermatitis or psoriasis, direct contact between the skin and the allergen is not always necessary. The allergy-causing substance can also be absorbed through the respiratory system or gastrointestinal tract, for example.

The allergy typically manifests as:

  • Hay fever
  • Sneezing
  • Itching
  • Redness and hives
  • Swelling of the nasal mucous membranes and eyelids
  • Watery eyes


The most common triggers of this type of allergy are:

  • Dust mites
  • Pollen
  • Animal hair


 

Late Type/Allergy Type IV

With allergy type IV, also known as the delayed-type allergy, symptoms are primarily triggered on the skin. Allergic contact eczema, or contact allergy, is a skin reaction to a specific allergen. Reactions can occur immediately or after a few hours or even days. In conditions like neurodermatitis, the skin lacks moisture and oils, making it much more sensitive than normal skin. Typical symptoms include itching, redness, or blisters. Inflammation becomes visible on the affected area that was in contact with the allergen. 

Common triggers for contact allergies include:

  • Metals (such as nickel and cobalt)
  • Latex
  • Adhesives (such as those used for bandages)
  • Plants
  • Fragrances (found in cosmetics such as lipsticks, perfumes, soaps, and detergents)
  • Cleaning agents and solvents
  • Medications applied to the skin

For every allergy, it is important to identify the allergy trigger in order to avoid contact – whether internal or external – in the future.

Food Allergies and Intolerances

Food allergies often trigger atopic dermatitis. It is important to recognize which foods may be best avoided. Keeping a neurodermatitis diary can help identify connections between specific foods and flare-ups. If the trigger remains unclear, an allergist can assist in identifying it.

The most common food allergies that can trigger atopic dermatitis include eggs, cow’s milk, wheat, soy, nuts, fish, and food additives such as colorings and preservatives.

In addition to classic food allergies, intolerance reactions, known as pseudo-allergies, are also possible. The symptoms are usually very similar, but with a pseudo-allergy, no immunological reaction can be detected.

 

Some common triggers of pseudo-allergies include:

  • Food additives (such as colorants, preservatives, and flavor enhancers)
  • Biogenic amines (found in cheese, sauerkraut, vinegar, and red wine)
  • Histamine (found in salami, hard cheese, and certain types of fish like tuna and anchovies)
  • Salicylates (found in pineapples, grapes, oranges, apricots, olives, cucumbers, as well as in wine and several spices)
  • Natural flavorings (e.g., in tomatoes)

Pollen Allergy

Pollen is a common cause of seasonal allergies, also known as "hay fever," and can quickly trigger flare-ups in people with atopic dermatitis. According to the German Skin and Allergy Aid (DHA), approximately 70 to 80% of individuals with atopic dermatitis are sensitive to environmental allergens such as pollen.

 

Pollen enters the body not only through the respiratory tract but also through the skin, potentially triggering allergic reactions. People with atopic dermatitis have a compromised skin barrier, which allows pollen to penetrate more easily than through healthy skin. The majority of allergic reactions are caused by pollen from trees and grasses, which are spread by the wind. Symptoms of a pollen allergy include a runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose, eyes, ears, and mouth, nasal congestion, red and watery eyes, and swelling around the eyes.

 

Measures to reduce pollen allergy:

  1. Keep Windows Closed: Keep windows closed during pollen season, especially in the morning in rural areas and in the evening in the city. Use pollen screens on windows to minimize exposure.

  2. Cleaning: Regularly wash bed linens and vacuum the apartment thoroughly using a vacuum cleaner with a filter system designed to trap allergens.

  3. Sunglasses: Wear sunglasses and a hat to prevent pollen from coming into contact with your eyes and hair.

  4. Changing Clothes: Change and wash clothes after outdoor activities to remove pollen particles.

  5. Showering: Wash your hair and body daily before bed to remove any pollen that may have accumulated during the day.

Salt Shower to Soothe the Skin

If you suffer from allergies, it is beneficial to shower in the evening before going to bed, ensuring you don't carry any allergens or residues on your skin and hair overnight. The salt shower from Shower+ is particularly gentle and soothing. Made from 100% natural ingredients, it has been specially developed for individuals with skin conditions such as neurodermatitis, psoriasis, acne, and other sensitive skin conditions.

THE STARTER SET – EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR SALT SHOWER

The daily care routine made with 100% natural, pressed sea salt in just 3 minutes to address your acute skin problems. A gentle alternative to salt baths for individuals with skin conditions such as neurodermatitis, psoriasis, acne, and sensitive skin.

The starter set includes a Base+, 14 Sticks+, sealing rings, a cleaning brush, and the installation tool.

Bring the sea into your shower!


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long can I use a Stick+ in the shower?


With a single, dosed application, you can shower for about three minutes at a recommended water temperature of 37°C. Each Stick+ is designed for one shower session. However, the duration may vary depending on water pressure, the showerhead, and the temperature.

Can I install the faucet on any shower?



The Base+ is specifically designed to fit almost all standard shower installations. However, it is not compatible with concealed fittings that do not have a G ½" outlet on the tile surface. If you encounter any installation issues, please contact our customer service: kundenservice@showerplus.de

Can I use my shower without the "Stick+" inserted?


You can use your shower as usual without the Stick+. Your shower routine is important to us! When developing the Base+, one of our priorities was to ensure it does not affect the usual function of your shower.


Can I install the Base+ myself or do I need help from a professional plumber?


The Base+ is very easy to install. Simply use the included installation tool and follow the step-by-step instructions. You can also find helpful installation tips on the packaging. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at kundenservice@showerplus.de 
We are happy to assist you!

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