Atopic dermatitis can of course also manifest itself on the face. However, other forms of eczema can also occur on the face, especially if only the facial area is affected. Contact eczema usually develops where the skin comes into contact with the allergy-causing substances.
As our faces are exposed to so many environmental factors every day, allergic reactions can also occur there more quickly. We touch our face dozens of times a day, often unconsciously. This is why allergic reactions can be triggered by both direct and indirect contact.
Examples of allergy triggers
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If an allergic reaction is triggered indirectly or occurs with a time delay, it can be difficult to identify the trigger. For example, nail polish or hand creams, even if they do not cause skin problems on the hands, can cause irritation on sensitive areas of the face.
An allergist (a doctor who specializes in allergies) can identify the cause by asking specific questions and carrying out allergy tests. In most cases, the trigger can be identified and appropriately treated. In addition, avoiding contact with the allergen (allergy-triggering substance) can often bring about a significant improvement of symptoms.
Important:
An allergy should always be diagnosed and treated by a doctor. If you suspect an allergic cause of your symptoms, consult a doctor.
Allergic or irritant contact dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis (or allergic contact eczema) can occur when the skin comes into contact with an allergy-causing substance. The reaction usually occurs with a time delay of a few days or even weeks after the initial contact. Eczema is often triggered by chemical substances, for example fragrances, preservatives in cosmetic products or nickel in costume jewelry.
Even more common than allergic contact dermatitis is irritant contact dermatitis. It is caused by excessive exposure of the skin to physical or chemical stimuli. Examples of common triggers are water, saliva or ultraviolet rays.
Pollen allergy also causes itching of the skin
Some atopic dermatitis patients also suffer from a pollen allergy. In addition to the typical areas such as the nose or eyes, itching can also occur on the skin of the face. Scratching can then cause the sensitive skin to react with irritation.
Remember:
If you suspect that the itching or skin inflammation on your face is not (only) caused by your atopic dermatitis, always consult a doctor. This way, the suspicion can be medically clarified and, if necessary, a treatment can be initiated.
References:
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/atopic-dermatitis-vs-contact-dermatitis#differences (external), Accessed on 21.2.22
- Usatine RP, Riojas M. Diagnosis and management of contact dermatitis. Am Fam Physician. 2010 Aug 1;82(3):249-55. PMID: 20672788.
- https://www.healthline.com/health/allergic-rhinitis#symptoms (external), Zugriff am 21.2.22
- Ale IS, Maibach HI. Irritant contact dermatitis. Rev Environ Health. 2014;29(3):195-206. doi: 10.1515/reveh-2014-0060. PMID: 25274939.
- Pap et al. Contact hypersensitivity in adolescents. Pediatr Dermatol. 2018 Nov;35(6):769-773. doi: 10.1111/pde.13609. Epub 2018 Aug 28. PMID: 30152547.
- Tan CH, Rasool S, Johnston GA. Contact dermatitis: allergic and irritant. Clin Dermatol. 2014 Jan-Feb;32(1):116-24. doi: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2013.05.033. PMID: 24314385.
