Skin Allergies Specialist

Q: What causes skin allergies?

Skin allergies are the result of an immune reaction. When you come in contact with something your body thinks is dangerous, it reacts by sending immune-fighting cells to protect you, resulting in red, itchy skin. Skin allergies are very common, but determining the exact trigger of your reaction can be challenging. Common triggers include plants such as poison ivy or poison oak, pet dander, foods, medication, illnesses such as chickenpox or measles.

Q: What are the types of skin allergies?

There are three common types of skin allergies contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and hives. After an examination and testing, the dermatologist determines the type of skin allergy affecting you. In some cases of contact dermatitis, you may not experience an allergic reaction until your skin is exposed to the sun. This is called photoallergic contact dermatitis. Sunscreen, perfume, and shaving cream trigger photoallergic contact dermatitis.

Q: What are the symptoms of skin allergies?

In addition to the red rash, skin allergy symptoms may also include swelling, cracked skin, flaky skin, raised bumps

Are you concerned about red rashes that suddenly appear on your skin? You may be dealing with skin allergies.

You need a dermatologist with years of experience, and at Maiden Lane Medical in New York City, we may be able to help identify what’s causing your reaction and offer treatment. If you’d like to learn more about skin allergies, call the office or use the online booking agent to schedule an appointment at the midtown Manhattan location with a dermatologist.

“I have visit many doctors for my problem, many just gave up on, but my Doctor is just amazing. She is careful and knows what she does, feel very comfortable. The clinic is really nice, and the people who work there are very professional and kind.”

PAULINA T.

What Causes Skin Allergies?

Skin allergies are the result of an immune system reaction. When you come in contact with something your body thinks is dangerous, it reacts by sending immune-fighting cells to protect you, resulting in red, itchy skin.

Skin allergic reactions are very common, but determining the exact trigger of your reaction can be challenging. Common triggers include:

Plants such as poison ivy or poison oak
Pet dander
Foods
Medication
Illnesses such as chickenpox or measles

What Are the Different Types of Skin Allergies?

There are three common types of skin allergies:

Allergic contact dermatitis — bumpy, itchy, red rash caused by contact with an irritant or allergen such as detergent, metals, latex, or adhesives
Atopic dermatitis — a form of eczema that causes a dry, red, scaly rash
Hives — small, itchy bumps usually caused by an allergen

After an examination and testing, the dermatologist determines the type of skin allergy affecting you.

In some cases of contact dermatitis, you may not experience an allergic reaction until your skin is exposed to the sun. This is called photoallergic contact dermatitis. Sunscreen, perfume, and shaving cream trigger photoallergic contact dermatitis.

What Are the Symptoms of Skin Allergies?

In addition to the red skin rash, skin allergy symptoms may also include:

Swelling
Cracked skin
Flaky skin
Raised bumps

How Do You Manage Skin Allergies?

Skin allergy treatment may depend on the type of allergy you have and what’s causing your reaction. The dermatologist may recommend topical ointments to ease the redness and itching and antihistamines to reduce swelling and inflammation.

With advances in medicine, our dermatologists can now offer medications specifically designed to treat moderate and severe cases of atopic dermatitis.

The doctor may conduct allergy testing to identify the allergen if you’re not able to pinpoint the specific cause. Once you know what your allergen is, avoid contact or ingestion to prevent further breakouts.

The dermatologist may also recommend you take measures to protect your skin from the sun, especially during a reaction, to reduce further irritation.

Schedule an Appointment at Maiden Lane Medical Today!

If you or a loved one are struggling with a skin reaction or skin conditions, schedule a consultation at Maiden Lane Medical or book an appointment online. Our expert dermatologists are here to diagnose, treat, and support you on your journey to healthier, happier skin.

From mild irritations to severe atopic dermatitis, our experienced team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and relief. Don’t wait—contact us now to experience the difference in personalized care!

Hypersensitivities

Adaptive immune defenses, both humoral and cellular, protect us from infectious diseases. However, these same protective immune defenses can also be responsible for undesirable reactions called hypersensitivity reactions.

Allergy Skin Test

An allergy skin test helps diagnose allergies by placing small amounts of specific allergens on the skin. Allergens are substances that cause an allergic reaction. A positive result may mean you have an allergy.

Rashes

A rash is an area of irritated or swollen skin. Many rashes are itchy, red, painful, and irritated. Rashes can be a symptom of many different medical problems. Other causes include irritating substances and allergies. Learn about different skin disorders that cause rashes and how they’re treated.

Itching

Pruritis or itchy skin is tingling or irritation that makes you want to scratch the area. It’s a symptom of many health conditions. Pruritus can range from mild to severe. Learn the causes and treatments.

Hives

Hives (urticaria) are red and sometimes itchy bumps on your skin usually caused by an allergic reaction to a drug or food. In rare cases, hives can cause a dangerous swelling in your airways, making it hard to breathe – which is a medical emergency. Learn more about hives.

Contact Dermatitis

A type of acute or chronic skin reaction in which sensitivity is manifested by reactivity to materials or substances coming in contact with the skin. It may involve allergic or non-allergic mechanisms.

Eczema

Eczema is a general term for different types of inflammatory skin conditions. It’s also called dermatitis. Most types cause dry, itchy skin and rashes on the face and body. Atopic dermatitis, the most common type, is an allergic skin reaction. Learn what triggers eczema, about common complications, and how it’s treated.

Skin Conditions and Disorders

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. It covers and protects your body. There are many diseases or conditions that can affect your skin and appearance. Learn about common skin conditions, including how to identify them, and tips on how to keep your skin healthy.

Manage your Eczema and Scratch that Itch for Good

It’s irritating, it’s chronic, and we don’t have a cure, but eczema can be taken down a notch with conscious effort. Learn ways to manage yours.

Medically Reviewed By

Kenneth A. Levey, MD MPH FACOG FACS

Board Certified Gynecologist & CEO and Managing Partner of Maiden Lane Medical

Specialists

Harry Gruenspan, MD, PhD

Noor Taied, DO

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