Spring! The season that inspires poets and artists also inspires, well, sniffles and sneezes for many of us. But did you know that these seasonal allergies can wreak havoc on your skin too?
Today, let’s dig into this from a skincare and medical perspective. It's a blossoming field (pun intended!), especially for those of us with sensitive skin. But fear not; I've got some professional advice for you.
Before we dive in, let's be clear: while I might sound like a regular writer, I'm approaching this from a medical perspective. After all, I am a Pharmacist and I've developed a skincare line specifically formulated for sensitive skin. So, when I say I've got your back, I mean it in a very scientific way!.
In this article, I'm here to guide you on how to navigate these springtime skincare hurdles with a focus on strengthening your skin barrier and avoiding irritants.
From understanding your triggers to choosing the right products for your skin, I will provide the essential information you need to keep your skin healthy and as comfortable as possible this spring.
When we talk about spring allergies, we're usually referring to hay fever, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, a condition where your immune system overreacts to airborne substances. Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds can be the main culprits. The symptoms might range from a runny nose to watery eyes, and yes, skin irritation and rashes.
WHAT ARE COMMON CAUSES OF SPRING ALLERGIES IN AUSTRALIA?
Springtime in Australia brings with it a host of allergens that can wreak havoc on your skin.
From pollen to grass to mould, these common triggers can cause itching, redness, and inflammation, making it essential to take preventive measures to keep your skin healthy and comfortable.
The Usual Suspects
Pollen + Plants: The most infamous of them all, airborne pollen can cause havoc for sensitive skin. (We tend to blame our native plants but most of the highly allergenic pollen tends to come from imports, like Paterson's Curse and Ragweed.) Grass, too, can trigger allergic reactions, especially if you spend time outdoors or have a lawn.
Mould: With increased humidity, moulds love to grow in damp places. Bathrooms and old homes provide a comfy home for mould. Mould spores can be just as irritating as pollen and are often airborne too.
3. Insect bites: Insect bites are also a common concern in spring, as mosquitoes and other bugs become more active. Not only can the bites themselves be itchy and inflamed, but some people may also have an allergic reaction to the insect's saliva, leading to more skin irritation. Dust mites flourish in warm, humid conditions. While they are an all-year-round concern, the issue can get worse in spring.
4. Pet Dander: Your furry friends may also contribute to your skin woes during springtime as they shed their winter coats.
PREVENTION IS KEY - 6 TIPS TO KEEP ALLERGIES AT BAY IN SPRING
By taking proactive measures, you can reduce your exposure to allergens and reduce the chances of experiencing hay fever rashes. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
1. STAY INFORMED ABOUT POLLEN COUNTS:
Keep an eye on pollen counts in your area. This information can help you plan your outdoor activities. On days when the pollen count is high, keep your windows closed and try to limit your time outdoors or take precautions to protect your skin. Did you know that Thunderstorms can also make hay fever worse? Asthma Australia has some good links to pollen count trackers.
2. COVER UP AGAINST BITES:
Wear long sleeves and pants when spending time in grassy areas. Protect against bug bites with insect repellent and protective clothing, especially around grass or near water.
3. STRIP WHEN YOU GET HOME
After spending time outdoors, be sure to shower and change your clothes to remove any allergens that may have come in contact with your skin. This can help prevent allergens from lingering in your living spaces and causing a reaction.
4. CLEAN
Regularly clean and dry areas prone to mould growth. An air purifier can help with this too.
5. USE THE RIGHT SKINCARE PRODUCTS
Opt for skincare products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin and are free of irritants. These products are designed to be gentle on the skin and can help minimise the risk of irritation. Avoid high-foaming products which may interfere with your skin's barrier function. I will cover this in more detail later on.
6. MOISTURISE, MOISTURISE, MOUSTURISE TO BUILD YOUR SKIN BARRIER
Keeping your skin well moisturised can help strengthen its barrier function and reduce the risk of allergens penetrating the skin. Look for moisturisers that are super-hydrating, non-greasy, and contain rich, protective ingredients like Shea Butter, Jojoba Oil, Rosehip Oil and humectants like Glycerine.
7. TREAT FLARE-UPS EARLY:
At the earliest signs of Hay fever symptoms, get onto it. Treating early and consistently can break the itch cycle. I will cover why later in the article.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you can greatly reduce your risk of developing skin allergies this spring. Remember, prevention is always better than a cure when it comes to your skin's health and comfort.
REPAIR + BUILD YOUR BARRIER - FACE
#1 MUST BUY - SOOTHE, TREAT, HYDRATE
Soothe, Treat, Boost, Hydrate & Build your Barrier with this unctuous, deep moisturiser.
Melt between your fingertips and use as a day cream. Apply a thick layer at night for an intense hydrating treatment. Apply to irritated areas to help soothe redness, itch and irritation.
" The packaging and the product both feel luxurious. It’s a balm but it goes on thinner than you would expect, which is actually nice, and absorbs very quickly leaving the skin soft, not greasy. It feels like it supports my skin barrier. It’s lack of scent is welcome and it doesn’t seem to irritate my rosacea, dermatitis or cause redness. It also seems to be really good value, as you only need to use the tiniest amount at a time. It also doubles nicely as a lip balm and cuticle cream or an eczema cream in a pinch. " - Jessica Teas - Cult Beauty Founder
#2 - MUST BUY - CLEANSE, HYDRATE & BUILD YOUR BARRIER
Build your barrier, whilst you deep clean wth this golden oil cleanser. Sunflower Oil melts away allergens, dust, dirt and makeup, without stripping. Unctuous Jojoba Oil and Glycerine hold hydration in your clean skin. Your skin will feel soft and dewy.
Simply massage into your skin and wipe off with a soft cloth or cotton pad.
" An exceptionally light cleansing solution perfect for those that typically wouldn’t reach for an oil. Its blend of nutrient-dense, potent oils make it a great choice for even the most delicate skin types. It’s effective but never irritating – a delightfully gentle formula! " - Amy Starr, Beauty Journalist
#3 MUST BUY - FOR ITCHY EYES
Soothe, De-puff, Hydrate & Build your Barrier with this delicious, delicate eye balm.
Melt a small amount between your fingertips and lightly massage around the eye area.
" The skin around the eyes is very thin and prone to sensitivity due to allergens and the environment. This richly nourishing balm is the gentlest formulation for eyes I have seen. With anti-inflammatory cucumber and shea butter which provides antioxidants and traps in moisture, I have found this so soothing and protective. Highly recommended for those who have a really sensitive eye area. " - Emily Fletcher, Founder –Clean + Conscious Awards
An allergen is a substance that can cause allergic symptoms. Allergens are definitely not a one-size-fits-all. One person may have an allergic reaction to peanuts and another to pollen.
For some reason, your body identifies this substance as a threat and incorrectly triggers an immune protective response.
To better understand your skin allergies, it is important to identify your specific triggers. Keep track of your symptoms and note any patterns or common factors. This can help you figure out which allergens are causing your reactions and to take appropriate preventive measures.
HOW DOES EXPOSURE TO YOUR TRIGGER CREATE ALLERGIC SYMPTOMS?
When you are exposed to your personal trigger, your immune system misfires and goes into overdrive releasing a chemical into your bloodstream called Histamine. Histamine causes swelling, redness and itch. You can get a localised reaction or generalised reaction.
Examples of localised histamine reactions include:
When you inhale your triggers (like pollen or smoke) through your nose, it may cause an itchy, runny nose.
When you inhale through your mouth, it may trigger an asthma attack.
When your face is exposed, you may get itchy, runny eyes.
When you touch an allergen (like touching a dog or a skincare product, or a mozzie bite), you may get a skin reaction.
In reality though, most who get hay fever can have a generalised histamine reaction where they get multiple allergic symptoms of seasonal allergies. Not fair!
EVER NOTICED THAT WHEN YOU START ITCHING, YOU JUST CAN'T STOP?
Ironically, when you scratch itchy skin, your skin perceives your scratching as a further threat and releases MORE Histamine. More Histamine means more itch. It turns out that your Grandma was right when she told you to stop scratching.
If only it was that easy.
But there are some solutions to stopping the itch cycle.
Antihistamines can prevent or reduce spring allergy symptoms
As I mentioned earlier, your body releases Histamine into your bloodstream when you are exposed to any of your triggers. And yes, that is why an antihistamine can work for spring allergies so well. Antihistamines literally work by being ANTI - HISTAMINE. They cancel out the extra Histamine that your body is mistakenly squirting into your bloodstream. And so they can significantly reduce or even eliminate itchy skin, runny nose and uncomfortable eyes.
Newer antihistamines won't make you tired
The good news is that the newer antihistamines, don't make you sleepy at all. Many people with seasonal allergies may even need to take an antihistamine tablet every day throughout pollen season but in return they can breathe easy, knowing that they won't be driven mad with itch. Chat to your Pharmacist about the best option for you.
If hay fever symptoms keep you up at night, an older-style antihistamine might be your friend
There is an old Irish proverb: "A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything."
Isn't it amazing how a peaceful night's rest can make you feel like a brand-new person, ready to tackle whatever comes your way? But what about when itch (or other hay fever symptoms) are keeping you awake?
This is where an older style sleepy antihistamine comes in, reducing the Histamine zigzagging around your body AND making you sleepy. Have a word with your Pharmacist.
What has my runny nose got to do with my itchy spring skin?
There is a lot of evidence that controlling one element of your hay fever symptoms, can reduce the other symptoms. As in controlling your runny nose and itchy eyes can also reduce itchy skin and asthma.
Speak to your Pharmacist or GP for more specific medical advice.
When do you need to see a Doctor for Hay fever?
1. If you are having trouble breathing, call an ambulance.
2. If your breathing feels a bit tight or is making a faint whistling sound, you should go see your Doctor.
3. If you have a runny or itchy nose or eyes or itchy skin, first stop should be your local Pharmacist, who may refer you on to your GP, if you need something stronger.
CONCLUSION
Spring allergies don’t just trigger sneezes—they can wreak havoc on your sensitive skin, causing redness, irritation, and dryness. As a pharmacist and founder of QED Skincare, I understand the challenges of seasonal allergies on your skin. With our award-winning products, specifically formulated for sensitive skin, you can keep your skin calm and protected throughout spring. You now have practical advice on maintaining a healthy skin barrier, avoiding common irritants, and when to seek medical guidance for stubborn symptoms. Whether you're dealing with eczema, redness, or just extra dryness, QED Skincare is here to help you blossom without the bother. Explore our range of products and make this spring kinder to your skin.
SUMMARY
Strengthen Your Skin Barrier: Focus on protecting and fortifying your skin to prevent allergy-induced irritation.
Avoid Common Allergens: Limit exposure to pollen and other irritants that can trigger skin reactions.
Use the RIGHT Skincare: Opt for gentle, plant-based products like those from QED Skincare to keep your skin calm and healthy.
Hydrate and Soothe: Keep your skin moisturised to reduce dryness and sensitivity during allergy season.
Create an Indoor Sanctuary: Maintain a clean, pollen-free environment at home to support your skin’s well-being.
Choose Professional, Award-Winning Solutions: Trust in QED Skincare’s award-winning, sensitive skin-focused formulas for a resilient and radiant complexion.
Enjoy Spring Confidently: With the right skincare routine, you can embrace the beauty of spring without worrying about skin flare-ups.
Seek Professional Advice: If needed, consult a healthcare provider for personalised solutions to allergy-induced skin issues.
Shoshana Eisner isn’t your average pharmacist — She’s the mind and heart behind QED Skincare, the luxury brand that’s making sensitive skin feel fabulous. Based in Sydney, Shoshana combined extensive dermatology research and a love for all things plant-based and cruelty-free to create skincare that doesn’t just work—it works wonders. With a collection of award-winning products and a money-back guarantee (because, yes, they’re that good), Shoshana is on a mission to prove that gentle, effective skincare can be downright luxurious. After all, who says sensitive skin has to miss out on the good stuff?
I was on the hunt for a skincare line for my sensitive skin that doesn’t have fragrance. This travel set is so good, the face and eye balm are divine and the cleansing oil is great for removing makeup after a busy day at work, haven’t tried the exfoliator yet. This skincare line is exactly what my sensitive skin needs. A big thank you to the formulator for making such a great skincare line that supports and comforts sensitive skin. Many thanks from Perth, W.A. Look forward to purchasing the larger sizes.
