The most important causes of skin irritation and appropriate solutions to treat it

There is nothing more difficult than feeling itchy, burning or red skin, as these painful feelings may push you to try to tear your skin in the hope of getting rid of it quickly. But, what if the skin irritation continues for long periods? And what if this irritation is on the face? Will you bear this pain, or will you start looking for quick solutions to get rid of this annoyance? In the following lines, we will discuss through the         Dalili Medical website the causes of skin irritation and the best methods of treatment and prevention.

**What is skin irritation?**

Skin irritation is a feeling of itching, burning or redness of the skin, which occurs as a result of exposure to substances that cause allergies. The immune system recognizes these substances as irritants, which leads to a reverse reaction that causes skin irritation. Reactions vary from person to person, as a substance that may cause allergies to one person may not affect another. Skin inflammation can occur after the first exposure or after several times. Skin irritation occurs as a result of contact with allergens, or eating certain foods or medications, or as a result of some diseases. Irritation may be temporary and go away quickly, or it may last for long periods, which requires seeing a doctor to determine the cause and obtain appropriate treatment. There are several ways to treat irritation and skin inflammation, whether at home, such as creams and moisturizers, or medications prescribed by a doctor.

**What is skin irritation due to friction?**

Skin irritation is a common skin problem that results from a number of factors, such as friction, moisture, and irritating fabrics. Repeated friction for long periods leads to a burning and stinging sensation, and a red rash may sometimes appear on the skin. In chronic cases, this irritation can cause swelling, bleeding, and peeling. Skin irritation most often occurs in areas of greater friction, such as the thighs and buttocks, in addition to the nipples, feet, and armpits.

**What are the signs of skin irritation?**

Signs of skin irritation include redness, itching, burning, and swelling. Red spots or cracks may appear on the skin, and in some cases, swelling or small blisters may occur.

**What should I do if my skin is irritated?**

If you experience skin irritation, it is best to avoid the substances or factors that caused it. Using moisturizers that are free of fragrances and harsh chemicals can help soothe the skin. Cold compresses can also be used to relieve itching and swelling. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is best to consult a dermatologist for an accurate assessment and appropriate treatment.

**How ​​long does skin irritation last?**

The duration of skin irritation varies depending on the cause and its severity. Irritation may be temporary and disappear within hours or days once the causative agent is removed. However, in some cases, irritation may last longer if there is a chronic skin condition.

**Causes of facial skin inflammation**

1. **Hormonal changes**: These are considered internal causes, as they are related to age changes and the stages that women go through, such as the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause.

2. **Plants**: Some plants contain oils that cause itching, and the latex found in some plants and fruits may lead to allergic reactions in some individuals.

3. **Metals**: Nickel in jewelry, cobalt in some buttons or zippers, and chromium in some dyes can cause allergic reactions such as pimples on the face.

4. **Medical conditions**: Sometimes, skin irritation can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as:

- **Liver disease**: Jaundice, which appears as yellowing of the skin, may indicate liver problems. 

- **Kidney disease**: Itchy skin may be a sign of kidney dysfunction. 

- **Diabetes**: Poor control of blood sugar levels can lead to dry, irritated skin.

5. **Immune system disorders**: Immune system disorders are among the most prominent causes of skin irritation, as medications and infections can lead to an immune response that causes skin allergies.

6. **Pollution and bacteria**: Many people are accustomed to touching their skin with their hands, which can lead to skin inflammation due to the transmission of bacteria and germs, especially if the hands are contaminated.

7. **Incorrect facial hair removal**: Some women follow incorrect methods such as using wax or razors, which increases facial irritation. Also, using hair removal creams may cause noticeable irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.

8. **Rubbing pimples**: One of the common mistakes that many people make is rubbing or pressing on pimples, which leads to multiple health problems, such as inflammation and spots, in addition to the appearance of more pimples as a result of the spread of infection.

**Types of skin irritation**

Skin irritation appears in several forms, as each type is characterized by different causes and characteristics, but they all lead to a feeling of discomfort and the appearance of signs on the surface of the skin. Here are some of the most common types of skin irritation:

**Contact dermatitis**: This type occurs when the skin reacts to certain substances, such as harsh chemicals or those that harm the outer layer of the skin. It appears as a response from the immune system to allergens such as some minerals, plants, or cosmetics.

**Atopic dermatitis (eczema):** is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, inflamed skin, often associated with allergic conditions such as asthma or hay fever. It causes red, swollen, and cracked skin.

**Hives**: Hives appear as itchy welts on the skin, caused by allergies, stress, certain medications, or infections. These welts usually appear suddenly, and can go away within hours or last for several days.

**Psoriasis**:** is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes skin cells to grow rapidly, resulting in thick, red, scaly patches. Psoriasis can cause itching, burning, and discomfort.

**Rosacea**: Rosacea mainly affects the

On the face, it causes redness and prominent blood vessels, and sometimes blisters or swelling. Triggers for this condition may include certain foods, alcohol, or exposure to sunlight.

**Heat rash**: occurs when sweat glands and ducts become blocked, resulting in red bumps or blisters, and often occurs in areas where skin rubs against clothing. It usually appears in hot, humid conditions.

**Folliculitis**: is an inflammation often caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, which results in red, itchy bumps, sometimes containing pus, around hair follicles.

**Skin allergy tests and diagnostic methods**

**Allergy testing**: This test involves placing patches containing potential allergens on the skin and leaving them for 48 to 72 hours. The patches are then removed and the skin is examined for signs of an allergic reaction.

**Skin prick test:** This test involves placing a small amount of potential allergens on the skin, then pricking or scratching the skin with a small needle, allowing the allergens to penetrate the skin. The patient's allergic reaction is monitored, and this is the most common skin allergy test, with results available within 15 to 20 minutes.

**Skin subcutaneous test:** This test involves injecting a small amount of suspected allergens under the skin using a needle. This test is more sensitive than the skin prick test, and provides accurate results.

**Blood test:** A blood test can measure the level of antibodies in the blood, indicating an allergic reaction to certain substances, in cases where other skin tests cannot be performed, such as people with severe skin conditions or who are taking medications that affect the test results.

**Causes of sudden skin irritation**

There are many causes of sudden skin irritation, the most prominent of which are:

**Irritation resulting from the use of allergens:** Common causes of sudden skin irritation include the following:

- **Irritation from nickel:** found in jewelry, clasps, and buttons on clothing.

- **Irritation from gold:** which is used in the manufacture of jewelry.

- **Irritation from metals in medical products:** such as hair dyes, antiperspirants, and metal-plated objects, including buttons and tools.

- **Irritation from Peru balsam perfume:** used in perfumes and skin preparations, and is extracted from tree resin.

- **Irritation from thimerosal:** which is used as a preservative in some disinfectants and vaccines.

- **Irritation from the topical antibiotic neomycin sulfate:** common in first aid creams, cosmetics, deodorants, soaps, and pet food.

**Formaldehyde Irritation:** It is a versatile preservative found in paper products, paints, medications, household cleaners, cosmetics, and fabric finishes.

**Skin Allergy Tests and Diagnostic Methods**

**Allergy Test:** This test involves placing patches containing potential allergens on the skin and leaving them on for 48 to 72 hours. The patches are then removed and the skin is examined for any signs of an allergic reaction.

**Skin Prick Test:** This test involves placing a small amount of potential allergens on the skin, then pricking or scratching the skin with a small needle. This allows the allergens to penetrate the skin, allowing the patient to monitor their allergic reaction. This is the most common skin allergy test, and results can usually be seen within 15 to 20 minutes.

**Skin Intradermal Test:** This test involves injecting a small amount of suspected allergens under the skin using a needle. This test is more sensitive than the skin prick test, and provides accurate results.

**Blood test:** A blood test can measure the level of antibodies in the blood, indicating an allergic reaction to certain substances, if other skin tests cannot be performed, such as in cases of severe skin diseases or people taking medications that affect test results.

**Causes of sudden skin irritation**

There are many causes of sudden skin irritation, the most prominent of which are:

**Irritation resulting from the use of allergens:** Common causes of sudden skin irritation include the following:

- **Irritation from nickel:** Found in jewelry, clasps, and buttons on clothing.

- **Irritation from gold:** Used in the manufacture of jewelry.

- **Irritation from metals in medical products:** Such as hair dyes, antiperspirants, and metal-plated objects, including buttons and tools, and cobalt blue dye.

- **Irritation from Peru balsam perfume:** Used in perfumes and skin preparations, and extracted from tree resin.

- **Irritation from thimerosal:** which is used in topical antiseptics and as a preservative in some vaccines.

- **Irritation from the topical antibiotic neomycin sulfate:** which is common in first aid creams, cosmetics, deodorants, soaps, and pet food.

- **Irritation from formaldehyde:** which is a versatile preservative, found in paper products, paints, medications, household cleaners, cosmetics, and fabric finishes.

**Symptoms of skin irritation**

Symptoms vary from person to person, and may include one or more of the following:

- Redness of the skin.

- Pain and itching of the skin.

- A burning sensation.

- Dryness and scaling of the skin surface.

- Swelling, blistering, or oozing.

**When is skin redness a cause for concern?**

If the redness covers a large area of ​​skin and lasts for several days, is accompanied by fever or severe pain, or if it spreads rapidly with or without itching, a doctor should be consulted 

Immediately.

**Mistakes that lead to skin irritation and inflammation**

- **Excessive touching of the skin:** Many people are accustomed to touching their skin with their hands frequently, which is a wrong habit that may lead to skin inflammation due to the transmission of bacteria and germs, which causes skin contamination and clogged pores.

- **Rubbing pimples:** One of the common mistakes that many people make is rubbing pimples or pressing on them to get rid of them, which leads to many health problems and the appearance of inflammation and spots on the skin. Rubbing pimples may also cause the spread of infection and the appearance of more pimples, so it is preferable to consult a doctor to use appropriate medical preparations after determining the cause of the appearance of pimples.

- **Removing facial hair in incorrect ways:** Some women resort to inappropriate methods to remove facial hair, such as wax or razors, which increases skin irritation. It is preferable to avoid these methods, as using hair removal creams may also lead to noticeable irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.

- **Not washing the face before bed:** Many people feel lazy when it is time to sleep, which prompts them to sleep without washing their face, which is a serious mistake. It is necessary to wash the face daily before bed to remove germs and bacteria that accumulate throughout the day, especially if a woman uses makeup, as makeup must be removed first and then the skin must be washed deeply.

**Using products that cause skin irritation**

Some people use skin care products or makeup without making sure that they are suitable for their skin and free of irritating chemicals, which leads to the appearance of inflammation and various skin problems. Therefore, it is necessary to read the labels on any product before purchasing it to ensure that it is compatible with the skin type and free of harmful substances.

**Using pillows made of synthetic fabrics**

Synthetic fibers cause skin irritation upon contact, and this applies to clothes, pillows and other synthetic fabrics. Therefore, it is recommended to choose cotton underwear and use pillows made of natural fibers such as cotton and silk to maintain skin health and protect it from various problems.

**Excessive use of skin care products**

Although skin care products are important in maintaining its health through a regular daily routine, excessive use of them can lead to multiple skin problems, especially those products that contain harsh chemical compounds. Frequent exfoliation is a common mistake that should be avoided, as it should not be done more than once every two weeks, and it is preferable to use natural exfoliants.

**Not applying sunscreen daily**

Many people are unaware of the importance of applying sunscreen daily before leaving the house, as this helps protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun's rays that may cause inflammation and irritation. Sunscreen should be used year-round, not just in the summer, and a good type with a protection factor ranging from 30% to 50% should be chosen.

**Applying essential oils to the skin**

Many people believe that using oils on the skin treats various problems, but this is not true, as some oils cannot be applied directly to the skin without diluting them with carrier oils. Essential oils are often very concentrated and may cause skin irritation, such as lavender oil and rose oil. To avoid inflammation, they should be diluted with carrier oils such as coconut oil or almond oil.

**Using products containing perfumes**

Many people prefer to use scented skin care products to get a nice smell, but this increases the likelihood of skin inflammation and irritation. This applies to various skin care products such as skin wash and soap, so it is recommended to use natural products free of irritating perfumes.

**Eating unhealthy foods**

There is a close relationship between diet and skin health, as some foods, such as fatty foods and sugars, can cause skin problems. It is recommended to avoid these foods and focus on eating vegetables and fruits rich in minerals and nutrients. In general, malnutrition and not eating a healthy, balanced diet negatively affect the skin, so you should eat a variety of foods from different food groups such as proteins, dairy, and whole grains.

**Stress and anxiety**

Feeling stressed and anxious has multiple negative effects on the body and skin. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid the factors that cause these feelings, whether they are a result of stress at work or dealing with people who contribute to increasing negative energy.

**Not drinking water**

Many people neglect the importance of drinking water in maintaining the health of the body and the freshness of the skin. Water plays a vital role in moisturizing the skin, and when not consuming sufficient amounts of it, the skin may be exposed to dryness, which leads to problems such as itchy skin and inflammation. It is recommended to drink plenty of water daily, and it is preferable to carry a bottle of water everywhere to remind yourself to drink it.

**Using hot water on the skin**

Some people believe that hot water deeply cleanses the skin, but this is a misconception. Hot water can remove natural oils from the skin, which increases the likelihood of dryness and cracking, and makes it more susceptible to inflammation and irritation. It is preferable to use lukewarm water when washing the face and showering to avoid the damage caused by hot water. It is also necessary to avoid using harsh tools to clean the skin, and to suffice with the fingers, as using a harsh loofah is not suitable for the face, and even for the body it is preferable to use a soft loofah without rubbing the skin vigorously.

**Methods for treating skin irritation**

Methods for treating skin irritation include multiple strategies aimed at relieving discomfort and reducing inflammation, depending on the type and cause. These methods include:

- **Topical treatments**: Over-the-counter creams, lotions, or ointments containing ingredients such as hydrocortisone, calamine, or aloe vera can help soothe itching, reduce redness, and promote healing of the skin.

- **Moisturizing**: Using fragrance-free moisturizers or barrier creams helps keep the skin hydrated and prevents dryness, which reduces the severity of irritation.

- **Cold compresses**: Cool, wet compresses can help relieve itching, inflammation, and discomfort associated with various irritations. It is important to avoid hot water, as it can aggravate some conditions.

- **Avoid triggers**: Avoiding allergens, harsh chemicals, or environmental factors such as high temperatures or humidity can help prevent recurring flare-ups.

- **Prescription medications**: In some severe or chronic skin conditions, prescription treatments such as corticosteroids, antihistamines, or antibiotics (in the case of a bacterial infection) may be needed, which are usually prescribed by a healthcare professional. For persistent or severe conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or severe allergies, dermatologists may recommend phototherapy, oral medications, or advanced treatments specifically designed for the condition.

**Treatment of skin irritation after hair removal**

This text refers to the irritation that occurs as a result of using wax or sugar, which are common methods of hair removal that may lead to redness and irritation of the skin. To treat this condition, you can follow the following tips:

1. **Cold compresses**: Ice compresses are very effective after using any hair removal method.

2. **Aloe Vera**: Aloe Vera is the best choice for treating any type of skin inflammation.

3. **Diluted tea tree oil**: It is considered one of the strongest antibacterial oils, but it must be used after diluting it, as it may be strong on the skin.

4. **Soothing creams**: Medical creams are available in pharmacies dedicated to soothing the skin after hair removal, such as hydrocortisone cream.

5. **Baking soda**: It helps treat inflammation resulting from skin irritation. You can mix an amount of baking soda with three amounts of water, then massage the affected area with it and leave it for a few minutes before washing it. It is preferable to repeat this process once a day for several days. You can also mix a little baking soda with coconut oil to make a paste, apply it to the skin for five minutes and then wash it off. This method can be repeated twice daily until completely healed, but you should avoid leaving baking soda on the skin for a long time because it may increase inflammation.

6. **Oatmeal**: Oatmeal works as an anti-inflammatory and skin soother, especially in cases of allergies resulting from sunburn or rashes. Grind the oats and add a cup of oatmeal to a warm water bath for 15 to 20 minutes once a day. To treat the face from allergies, you can prepare a paste of oatmeal and yogurt with a little honey, leave it on the face for half an hour and then wash it well.

 Best creams for skin irritation

**Eucerin Redness Relief Night Creme**

Eucerin cream helps relieve skin inflammation and pain resulting from irritation, thanks to its content of natural oil extracts and soothing ingredients that moisturize and nourish the skin adequately. This cream is also safe for all skin types, as it is free of alcohol and fragrances.

**BePanthen Cream**

BePanthen Cream contains dexpanthenol, which provides rapid hydration and soothing for burns and skin irritation. It is an effective treatment for burns and the effects of sun rays. It also contains pantothenic acid, which is easily absorbed into the skin layers, stimulating the secretion of collagen and the growth of new cells. It can also be used to get rid of cracks and irritation in the winter.

**Bioderma Sensibio Forte Cream**

Bioderma offers an effective cream that is considered one of the best options for skin irritation and redness, in addition to its benefits in moisturizing the skin, as dryness is one of the most prominent causes of irritation. The cream contains beeswax, shea butter, and licorice extract rich in vitamin E, which helps rehydrate the skin and give it freshness, especially in winter.

**Avene Cream**

Avene cream is one of the best options for soothing sensitive skin, as it protects it from sunburn and insect bites. It contains antioxidants that protect skin cells and help regenerate them. It also has properties that protect against sun rays and harmful environmental pollutants.

**Clinique Cream**

Clinique cream contains a blend of powerful moisturizers such as shea butter and vitamin E, in addition to antioxidants that protect the skin from redness and irritation. When used on irritated skin, it helps soothe and moisturize it quickly and reduce redness, and it is suitable for all skin types.

**Lierac Rosilogie Cream**

Lierac cream is one of the best options for irritated sensitive and dry skin, as it contains effective ingredients that stimulate blood circulation in skin cells, such as aloe vera gel, shea butter, and sea salts. It also features a refreshing scent of jasmine and musk, and works to improve skin elasticity and restore its freshness after irritation.

**Hydra Tolerance Cream**

If you suffer from persistent dry skin, Hydra Tolerance Cream is the perfect choice thanks to its high effectiveness in moisturizing sensitive and irritated skin. Enriched with natural oils and shea butter, it is easily absorbed and provides a feeling of freshness and comfort for a long time.