What to do if your face itches: possible causes and methods of treatment

Allergy on the face in the form of red spots is a common problem with which patients often turn to dermatologists. To clarify the exact cause of this condition most often requires time and a number of additional studies. To alleviate the condition of allergic dermatitis, modern antiallergic drugs are used, which include Cetrin.

Symptoms

It is quite easy to suspect an allergic reaction in yourself or your child. In addition to the presence of an allergic rash on the face, the following complaints are noted:

  • Severe itching or burning;
  • Dryness, flaking of the skin;
  • Swelling of the eyelids, lips;
  • lacrimation;
  • Itching and redness of the eyes.

The rash itself may be in the form of red spots or blisters filled with transparent contents. Sometimes an allergic rash looks like small grouped dots that rise above the surface of the skin. If the rash appears after consuming any product, then symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain1.

Causes

The main reasons for the appearance of red spots on the skin of the face:

  • Direct skin contact with an allergen (cream, face mask, decorative cosmetics, soap, jewelry, etc.);
  • Food allergies;
  • Allergy to medications;
  • Allergy to sun or cold;
  • Eczema1.

To prevent the appearance of a rash in the future, it is necessary to accurately determine the cause of the allergy and eliminate contact with this substance.

La Cree products and their help in the fight against allergies

After the doctor tells you how to treat red spots and other manifestations of allergies on the face, you need to select products that will help restore the aesthetic appearance of the skin. La-Cri brand products, represented by creams, emulsions and gels, will help you with this. These products do not contain hormones, fragrances, harmful dyes, silicones and parabens. The use of La-Cri products is not addictive, so it can be used for a long time.

You can read about rashes on the stomach and ways to deal with them in the following sections.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis rashes are most often localized on the hands or face. An allergic reaction can be triggered by:

  • Skin care products. It is important to pre-test creams, masks, lotions and other new products by applying a small amount of product to the inner surface of the forearm for 15-20 minutes.
  • Decorative cosmetics. Contains a large number of coloring pigments, fragrances and preservatives. People with sensitive skin prone to dryness and irritation are more prone to allergic reactions.
  • Plant pollen. When pollen from plants to which a person is allergic comes into contact with the skin, a rash, itching and other unpleasant symptoms may appear.

Red spots may appear either immediately after contact with the allergen or after some time (usually within 24-48 hours). If you find the cause of the allergy in time and stop using the inappropriate product, then no negative health consequences will be noted.

Possible causes of itching and treatment

From a medical point of view, itching is a complex of unpleasant sensations that may include:

  • hyperemia;
  • irritation;
  • tingling;
  • burning;
  • rashes;
  • swelling and other local reactions.

Itching on the skin of the face causes negative aesthetic manifestations: areas of peeling and scratching may occur.

The reasons for an itchy face can be skin diseases and systemic pathologies, as well as psychological problems.

Dermatitis

There are three main types of the disease.

Contact

The cause of this type of pathology is the direct effect of the allergen on the skin. Such irritants can be cosmetics or unsuitable detergents.

The use of medicinal ointments can also cause itching and redness. Rashes appear around the mouth as a result of contact with toothpastes.

In men, irritation often appears after shaving due to mechanical friction or unsuitable cosmetics.

Treatment consists of eliminating the allergen and taking local and general antihistamines prescribed by the doctor.

Allergic

The disease is caused by various physical and chemical irritants. It appears as eczema, most often in the cheeks, neck or forehead.

Caused by the following reasons:

  • consumption of certain foods and medications;
  • external irritants: dry air, weather conditions, street dust, pollen.

When making a diagnosis, it is necessary to find out the cause, and then eliminate any contact with the allergen. If this does not help, ointments or tablets with active ingredients such as loratadine, hydrocortisone, etc. are prescribed.

Atopic

Another name is neurodermatitis. Mostly it occurs in early childhood, and in adults it goes away on its own or transforms into eczema. Atopic dermatitis is chronic and difficult to treat. Accompanied by rashes on the neck and forehead, around the mouth and in the bend of the elbow and knee joints.

The reasons may be:

  • hereditary factors;
  • stress;
  • unfavorable environmental conditions;
  • vitamin deficiency, poor nutrition.

As a rule, the disease goes away with age. Otherwise, complex treatment is prescribed, which includes taking enterosorbents, probiotics, anti-allergenic drugs, the correct climatic conditions (sufficient humidity and low temperature, clothing for the season).

Excessive dry skin

Another common cause of itching. It can be congenital or acquired (due to the use of certain cosmetics). Alcohol-based lotions are a common cause.

Frequent washing with soap contributes to dryness, especially if it has an oil-dissolving or antibacterial effect.

To eliminate itching, you need to adjust your diet and drinking habits, and use moisturizing cosmetics.

Temperature influence

Depending on your skin type, itching may occur as a reaction to heat, excessive humidity, or cold. In this case, it is necessary to protect yourself with special creams; visiting saunas and steam baths is contraindicated.


Allergy to cold

The reaction to cold is thought to be related to anemia or thyroid dysfunction.

Demodicosis

The disease is caused by a parasitic microscopic mite that lives in the ducts of the sebaceous glands and hair follicles.

Most common locations:

  • forehead;
  • chin;
  • brow ridges.

An infestation of mites causes the face to turn red, scales, swelling, and eye fatigue to appear.

If the disease is not cured in time, it can lead to loss of eyelashes, hair, and the appearance of severe acne. Coming out, the mite opens pores, which become a “gateway” for any infections, which provokes the appearance of styes, pimples and blackheads.

Treatment is complex, including the use of anti-inflammatory creams, antibacterial ointments, and antiparasitic drugs. Metronidazole, Tinidazole, sulfur ointment, yellow mercury or ichthyol are prescribed. Drugs are used that normalize the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and strengthen the immune system.

Dermatophytosis

A group of infectious diseases caused by exposure to mold fungi. There are about 30 species that can pose a danger to humans. Infection occurs through contact with sick people and animals through the soil.

Provoking factors:

  • immunodeficiency state;
  • long-term use of corticosteroids.

Treatment consists of the use of antifungal and antiseptic drugs, which are prescribed only after the pathogen has been identified.

Mental disorders

Some mental disorders, in particular psychoses and neuroses, may be accompanied by itching of the facial skin, which spreads to the entire body. Symptoms are more pronounced during exacerbation of diseases.

Ordinary stress can also cause skin irritation.

Treatment consists of taking sedatives, and in severe cases, psychotropic drugs.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that appears as areas of redness and scaling.

The disease may affect the face or other parts of the body. The pathology has specific foci, but the itching mainly spreads beyond them.

Medical science does not know exactly what causes the disease. The disease periodically goes through a state of remission and relapses, worsening during periods of nervous shock and certain seasonal changes.

Treatment is carried out with local drugs, most often with ointments: sulfur-tar, salicylic, naphthalene, etc. Herbal medicine and the use of Cyclosporine or Acitretin are prescribed.

Seborrhea

It primarily affects the scalp, but sometimes appears on the face and entire body. A provocateur is considered to be a malfunction of the sebaceous glands caused by a disruption in the production of hormones.

The disease often occurs in adolescence and old age.

For therapy, calcium chloride, corticosteroids, sodium thiosulfate or antibacterial ointments are used. It is possible to use alcohol tinctures or solutions.

Herpes and papilloma

The cause of itching on the face may be internal infections. Thus, the papilloma virus and herpes are chronic, which persist in the human body throughout life and are characterized by periodic exacerbations.

Herpes is accompanied by a vesicular rash that begins with itching and redness. After some time, the affected area begins to swell. If you apply an antiviral ointment based on acyclovir in time, you can prevent the development of further symptoms.

Some types of HPV are causative agents of cancer. To determine the type of virus, you need to take a blood test. This information will help you take measures to prevent infection of your loved ones and help your doctor diagnose a precancerous condition in a timely manner.

Skin diseases

Skin diseases manifest themselves as rashes, nodules, blisters, spots, and peeling. The following pathologies can provoke similar symptoms:

DiseaseDescriptionTreatment
EczemaA chronic disease characterized by redness of the epidermis, swelling and cracksThe therapy is complex, using: hormonal drugs, vitamin complexes, sedatives, immunomodulators, antifungal and antibacterial ointments (depending on the cause)
HivesA disease caused by exposure to an allergen that results in the formation of a raised rashTreated with local and general antihistamines
Lichen planusRed-purple scaly plaques with accompanying itching. The disease is classified as a disorder of the immune system, the exact cause of which is unknown. For limited rashes - topical glucocorticosteroids
FolliculitisInflammation of hair folliclesIt can have different etiologies, so treatment depends on the pathogen. Antibacterial, antifungal drugs, ultraviolet radiation, etc. are used.
PruritusSmall nodules on the skin, in the center of which a bubble forms. The disease is characterized by severe itching and is caused by exposure to allergens. You should avoid eating fruits and vegetables that can cause allergies; sanitize foci of chronic infections in the body
Prickly heatA disease caused by sweat remaining on the surface of the skin. Occurs during hot periods or due to poor personal hygiene. Often appears in young children dressed inappropriately for the weather. Accompanied by the formation of small nodules with intense itching or vesicles (bubbles with clear liquid inside) An ointment with dexpanthenol or zinc oxide is prescribed
ScabiesA contagious disease caused by parasites that make passages in the skinSulfur-based ointments and antiparasitic drugs are indicated

Internal illnesses

Skin irritation is accompanied by pathologies of the kidneys, liver, stomach or intestines.

A common cause of itchy skin is hepatitis or other serious liver damage. With such diseases, the level of bilirubin increases, entering the capillaries and causing irritation.

A sign of malfunction of the internal organs is widespread itching. The skin is mostly unchanged: there is no change in color, peeling or rash.

These pathologies include:

CauseDescriptionTreatment
DiabetesThe initial symptoms of the disease are intense itching and thirst. Itching appears not only on the face, but also in the anus and genitals It is necessary to control sugar levels, take medications to lower glucose levels, and eat foods with a low glycemic index
HyperthyroidismThe metabolism accelerates, the temperature rises, which causes irritation (feeling like the face is burning and swollen). Itching is also possible with organ hypofunction, which is associated with excessive dry skin It is necessary to use moisturizing creams and ointments, as well as treat the underlying disease
Kidney failureNerve fibers are damaged, the threshold of sensitivity of the endings decreases. Even a weak irritant provokes unbearable itching It is important to normalize the level of calcium in the body, minimize contact with irritants, and moisturize the skin
PolycythemiaWith this pathology, an increased number of blood cells are produced, causing the formation of blood clots. Itching worsens after contact with water Antihistamines are prescribed for local and general use
Iron-deficiency anemiaDisease associated with impaired hemoglobin productionItching is reduced when taking iron supplements
LymphogranulomatosisAn oncological disease that begins with enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. The first sign is itchy skin, which gets worse in the evening. The skin is predominantly itchy in the affected area Treatment is symptomatic
Immunodeficiency virusItching occurs due to infection with other diseases due to damage to the immune systemTreatment depends on the cause of the discomfort: it can be antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, etc.
DehydrationDevelops against the background of malnutrition or intestinal infections. Skin becomes excessively dry Replenishing water balance, introducing rehydration solutions, moisturizing creams

Some types of prostate, lung, and breast cancer may be itchy.

Pregnancy and menopause

Facial itching often occurs in pregnant women. It can be a symptom of skin diseases, including:

  • Prurigo of pregnancy (prurigo) . Red skin rash that appears on various parts of the body.
  • Itching of pregnant women . Occurs due to overstrain of the liver during this period.

Itching usually appears in the later stages and goes away after childbirth. Treatment is carried out by a general practitioner together with an obstetrician-gynecologist. Antipruritic ointments are most often prescribed.

This symptom often occurs during menopause. The reasons are a decrease in estrogen production and an imbalance of other hormones. In this case, you need to consult a doctor to prescribe hormone replacement therapy.

Itching in children

In children, itching in various places, including on the face, usually develops against the background of an allergic reaction, prickly heat, or an infectious lesion. Treatment depends on the cause, but all medications must be approved by a pediatrician.

A common cause of itching is atopic dermatitis, the treatment of which takes a long time and consists mainly of an allergen-free diet.

Senile (senile) itching

The disease predominantly develops in men after 60 years of age. Doctors believe that the cause is physiological phenomena in the epidermis caused by old age, but the exact cause of senile (idiopathic) itching is unknown.

Courses of tranquilizers, antihistamines, hormones, etc. are prescribed. Diet is recommended.

Other reasons

Other factors that can cause itching include:

  • Medications (especially if they are taken on their own, without the supervision of a doctor, or there is a need for long-term use). If possible, medications should be discontinued or the dosage reduced. Enterosorbents are used to remove toxins from the body.
  • Ultraviolet irradiation . It causes first-degree burns, which are accompanied by redness and itching. Treated with ointment based on dexpanthenol.
  • Bad habits . Smoking and alcoholism lead to disruption of the nervous system. Treatment consists of giving up bad habits.
  • Eating disorder . Itching is caused by excess smoked, fatty and fried foods.
  • Insect bites: bedbugs, mosquitoes, lice, fleas, bees, wasps, etc. In this case, a nodule forms at the site of the bite against the background of swelling, redness and an increase in local temperature. Sometimes in the center you can see the bite site, which looks like a black dot. Allergy sufferers have a particularly difficult time dealing with such bites.
  • Irritation from chemicals: paints or fabric coatings, plant sap, metals.

Allergies to foods and medications

Food allergies on the face are quite common, especially in children. The most allergenic foods are peanuts, eggs, seafood, citrus fruits, and dairy products. However, in the presence of individual intolerance, an allergy can develop to any other food product.

Main symptoms:

  • blotchy rash on the face or body;
  • Severe itching;
  • Peeling of the skin;
  • Nausea, vomiting;
  • Stool disorders;
  • Abdominal pain.

Another important problem is drug allergies. An allergic reaction may occur to a medicine in the form of a tablet, injection, or ointment. Allergies to antibiotics, antiseptics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are common. The symptoms are the same as those of a food allergy. In severe cases, complications such as angioedema or anaphylactic shock may develop2. You need to know what drugs you are allergic to and warn doctors or medical staff about it.

Determining the causes depending on the location of the itching

Its localization will help determine the exact cause of itching:

Itchy areaCausesTreatment
Eye areaThe influence of atmospheric phenomena, allergic reaction, foreign body getting into the eye, stress, bright light, stale air, alcohol, demodex, barley, vitamin deficiency, conjunctivitis (more often in children), fatigue, infectionsEye wash, antiviral and antibacterial drugs, antihistamines and corticosteroids. Therapy depends on the cause of the pathology, which must be clarified by an ophthalmologist
HeadParasites (lice and ticks, often found in children), stress, dry scalp, allergies, skin diseases, pathologies of internal organsComprehensive treatment of diseases of the skin and internal organs, parasite remedies, anti-dandruff shampoo, anti-allergic drugs and vitamins
NeckInsect bites, exposure to atmospheric agents, rubbing with clothing and accessories, microdamages from shaving, allergic reactions, thyroid disease, fungal or skin mite damage, psoriasisTreatment is carried out after a comprehensive diagnosis. These can be antipruritic, antihistamine, antiparasitic drugs. It is important to eliminate the irritating factor in case of allergies or mechanical stress
CheeksFood allergies, dry skin, mechanical stress (the habit of frequently rubbing your face with your hands), metabolic disorders, vitamin deficiency, alcohol abuse, smoking, fatty foods; taking medications, excessive sweating, allergies to pollen, insect bites, poor-quality cosmetics, burns or frostbite Dermatological or antihistamines (after careful examination), use of protective creams
CheekbonesDiseases and dry skin, stress, allergies, weather conditions, bad habits, frequent visits to the bathhouse or sauna, drug abuse, diabetes mellitusTreatment depends on the specific disease: antiparasitic, antibacterial, antipruritic drugs, etc.
NoseAllergic reaction, inflammation, large amounts of nasal hair, dry mucous membranes, skin diseasesThe condition requires clarification of the cause and its treatment, most often it is not dangerous

Allergy to sun or cold

Natural factors can also cause the development of allergic reactions. Photoallergy or sun allergy most often occurs in the warm season - from late spring to early autumn. Sometimes an allergic rash is confused with sunburn, but the allergic nature of the disease is characterized by severe itching, the appearance of small, white pustules, and spotty red rashes even after a short stay in the open sun. In such cases, you need to apply sunscreen, protect exposed skin with clothing made from natural fabrics, and wear a hat3.

Allergy to cold or cold urticaria also occurs. During the cold season, red itchy rashes, peeling, and a feeling of tightness appear on the skin of the face and hands. Symptoms may persist for several hours or several days after exposure to the cold. Typically, allergies develop at temperatures from 10 degrees below zero, but it also happens at temperatures close to zero.

Eczema

Eczema is an inflammatory skin disease that tends to be chronic and relapsing. Often the symptoms of eczema are confused with allergic reactions, since the rashes can be similar in appearance. Eczema is characterized by the appearance of bright red spots and swelling of the skin. Grouped bubbles with transparent contents appear on a red background, after which crusts form.

The occurrence of the disease is associated with mechanical damage to the skin, microbial or fungal infection, and occupational hazards. Complex immune reactions characteristic of allergies also take part in the development of pathology.

General principles of drug therapy

If itching occurs, you should go to the hospital. A dermatologist deals with skin diseases. He will order laboratory tests and make a diagnosis that will help you choose the most appropriate treatment.

Universal anti-itch medications:

  • antihistamines - Cetrin, Suprastin and Fenkarol;
  • local ointments - menthol;
  • boric acid, used in the form of gauze compresses.

Treatment

Treatment for facial allergies must include a safe and effective antihistamine3. Cetrin is widely used for seasonal allergies and various forms of allergic dermatitis. The main active ingredient of the drug is cetirizine hydrochloride, which is a histamine antagonist. The advantages of the drug include:

  • Quick effect. Onset of action 20 minutes after administration.
  • Duration of action. The drug is taken once a day and is effective for 24 hours.
  • Good tolerance. Cetrin is well tolerated by patients and causes less drowsiness than first-generation drugs1.

The drug helps eliminate itching, swelling, and redness of the skin. Available in tablet form, approved for use in children over 6 years of age. If you suspect an allergic rash, taking Cetrin is a simple, safe way to make you feel better before you can see a doctor.

Traditional medicine

Folk remedies are also very effective in combating itching. The most popular of them are described in the table:

NamePropertiesIngredientsRecipe and application
Redness Eliminating LotionPrevents the progression of infection, accelerates the recovery process, removes flaking, itching, improves cell metabolism
  • Mineral water without carbon - 100 ml.
  • Sea buckthorn oil - 20 ml.
  • Salicylic acid – 5 ml
  1. You need to mix the ingredients and fill the cosmetic bottle with them.
  2. Shake before use, apply to skin morning and evening, after cleansing the dermis using products intended for this purpose.
Anti-irritation maskConsists of natural components, stimulates regenerative processes, relieves itching, softens problem areas
  • Cucumber - 1 pc.
  • Aloe juice - 1 tbsp. l.
  • Sandalwood essential oil – 2 drops
  1. Peel the cucumber and grate it.
  2. Mix the resulting pulp with aloe juice and sandalwood oil and apply to the face.
  3. Place a damp cloth or napkin on top.
  4. Keep the mask on for about 30 minutes, then rinse off. Repeat the procedure at least 3 times a week
Mask to restore damaged skinMoisturizes skin damaged by UV radiation
  • Potatoes - 1 pc.
  • Sour cream - 1 tbsp. l.
  • Avocado oil - 1 tbsp. l.
  1. Peel the potatoes, grate them or grind them in a blender.
  2. Mix with cold sour cream and avocado oil.
  3. Cleanse the skin, then spread the mask over the face, except for the area around the mouth and eyes.
  4. Leave on for 20 minutes, then rinse off. To prevent the skin from flaking, you need to do it daily for 7 days.
Rating
( 2 ratings, average 4 out of 5 )
Did you like the article? Share with friends:
For any suggestions regarding the site: [email protected]
Для любых предложений по сайту: [email protected]