What are allergies that cause acne?

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Acne is a skin condition that consists of white heads, blackheads, pimples and blemishes. It is important to note that acne is caused by clogged up pores due to the combination of oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. Even though acne is traditionally triggered by hormones, certain allergies can lead to its development as well. The vital point to remember when treating this type of acne is to avoid allergens that trigger the symptoms.

Various medications are often effective in eliminating any present acne, including those that are linked with allergies. On the other hand, antibiotics as well as other types of medications do not treat the exact source of the allergic acne. Always bear in mind that the prevention and management of acne should be focused on internal health. Since the skin is an organ that eliminates toxins from the body, allergic acne must be prevented from occurring in the first place, rather than being treated once acne has formed already.

What are the possible causes?

Acne due to allergies
Even though acne is traditionally triggered by hormones, certain allergies can lead to its development as well.

The acne triggered by allergies is linked to certain foods that the individual is highly sensitive to. Always bear in mind that food allergies are the typical triggers for acne issues in both men and women. The more allergic foods being consumed, the more severe the acne becomes.

Food allergies trigger the body to generate toxins that escape via the pores. As an outcome, most of these toxins block the pores and form into acne. In addition, this also causes inflammation of the skin.

What are the types?

The most common type of food allergy that instigates the development of acne includes dairy products. Other highly allergenic foods include milk, egg whites, soy, wheat, shellfish and peanuts. Just remember though that any food has the capability to generate an allergic effect in some individuals. There are certain types of food allergies that vary between one individual to another where some do not have any sensitivities at all.

Treatment

Mild cases of acne can be managed with over-the-counter cleansers, toners and spot ointments that contain either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. On the other hand, acne that is linked with food allergies typically occurs abruptly and quite severe.

It is important to note that consulting a doctor is vital so that prescription medications can be given. The individual should avoid picking on the acne since it might increase the risk for infection. Recurrent reactions to food allergies might also require adrenaline or epinephrine shots in order to prevent the manifestation of potentially deadly symptoms.

Preventive measures

The ideal way to prevent food allergies and the accompanying acne is to avoid foods that the individual is allergic to. Food allergies usually take up to 24 hours to trigger any symptoms. Once an individual is suspected to be allergic to a certain food, he/she must avoid eating the food for 3 days and then reintroduce it in the diet.

On the other hand, the individual should not perform this type of elimination diet especially those who have experienced severe food reactions. The doctor can also utilize a skin prick test or blood test in order to determine the types of foods the individual is allergic to. Avoidance of these foods will minimize the amount of toxins in the body that try to escape the skin in the form of acne.

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