Among the many skin conditions that people suffer from are various types of allergic dermatitis, or inflammation of the dermis, or skin, caused by allergens, chemicals or irritants.   These include eczema, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis from irritants or allergens.  Xerosis, or dry skin, is common here in the Salt Lake Valley. Hives, or urticaria, can be either acute or chronic and have different causes. These all can be managed by Allergy and Immunology specialists. 

How can you figure out what is causing your rash?

A consult from a medical professional can aid in a diagnosis.  After conducting a thorough history and physical examination, often the causes can be narrowed, or diagnosed with minimal testing. When an allergen is suspected, patch testing can be performed, where patches of potential allergens are placed on the skin, then interpreted within a few days to help determine the cause or narrow the diagnosis.

How can you help your skin look healthy and young?

Protection from the sun:

One of the most important ways to take care of your skin is to protect it from the sun.  Exposure to the sun over the years can cause wrinkles, age spots and other skin problems, including increased risk of skin cancer.

Your skin can be protected by seeking shade, consistently using sunscreen and using clothing to protect your skin.

Moisturizing:

It is important to treat your skin gently. Keeping your skin well moisturized is key.  Long baths or showers can remove protective oils from the skin, and consequently, limiting bath time can help keep your skin from drying out.  Avoiding very hot showers, shaving with caution, avoiding strong soaps and cleansers and using routine moisturizers can help keep your skin looking great.

When using moisturizers, the thicker, the better.  The most effective moisturizers are ointments, which are greasy and can be messy, but are also the most effective.

Reducing stress:

Stress impacts our body in many negative ways.  Stress can make your skin more sensitive and prone to acne breakouts or other issues.  Self-care is important in all aspects of life and can help keep your skin looking healthy.  Be sure to take time devoted to self-care and healthy methods of stress reduction and be sure to get enough sleep.

Are you or your family members looking for skin care recommendations? Allergy Associates of Utah is an allergy, asthma, and immunology specialty clinic serving the greater Salt Lake City, Utah area with 2 convenient locations in Murray and West Jordan. Led by specialists Andrew Smith, MD, MS, and Tara Sarin, MD, the practice strives to help people of all ages and background achieve success. Request an appointment by phone or online at either Allergy Associates of Utah location for expert allergy and immunology care today.