iS Skin Source 2022 Q1 | Page 62

Handling Skin Reactions | by Dr . Charlene DeHaven & Dr . Tahl Humes
Discussing the issue in person and learning that there is a solution will help ease their concern . or if it is an occlusive acne . When it is determined that the patient ’ s reaction is due to the skin adjusting to the new treatment or product - for example , if the skin is purging dead cells and sebum – the treatments and products do not need to be discontinued . The patient will , however , continue to experience the pustules until it has acclimated . It is important for the clinician to thoroughly explain this process , how long the purging will last , and what to expect during this time . When acne is caused by an emollient or occlusive product , the product will need to be discontinued in favor of a product that does not clog the pores .

It is also important to realize that an allergy or sensitivity to any product can develop at any time in an individual ’ s life .

If contact dermatitis from an irritant or allergen is suspected , any products – and there could be many being used , including makeup – possibly related to the reaction should be stopped . If the offending agent could still be present on the skin , it should be rinsed off with generous amounts of water . This may be enough to terminate the reaction . Even products used previously ( such as makeup , perfume , hair products , laundry products , etc .), when combined with more recent ones , could be problematic .
It is also important to realize that an allergy or sensitivity to any product can develop at any time in an individual ’ s life . Additionally , inflammation within the individual ’ s body may temporarily increase from another event . Either of these situations could cause a patient to have an adverse reaction to products they have used previously . No new treatments or products should be considered until the existing reaction has completely and thoroughly resolved . This might require weeks or months , and usually lasts longer than redness may be visibly seen . New habits , such as swimming , sunbathing , or some sports , could also be to blame . Strict sun avoidance must be recommended since sun exposure increases the inflammatory response . Some other things that can increase inflammation include hot yoga , exercise , sweating , alcohol use , exposure to pollution , weather exposure , and spicy foods .
If the reaction is severe or the patient is very uncomfortable , a referral to a
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