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The fix: Apply fragrance-free hand creams. In terms of
polish, brands like CND (cnd.com) and Orly
(orlybeauty.com) no longer contain those chemicals, but
they're still present in many polishes, so read the label or
check the Web site of your favorite shade before
applying.
Your Sensitive Symptoms: Small red bumps (not
pimples) on your face that may itch
It might mean: You're allergic to one of your products.
During an allergy attack, immune cells in your skin react,
causing a cascade of symptoms: first, red bumps, then
dryness and flakiness, and finally, a leathery texture,
explains Dr. Fusco. Frequent offenders, she says, include
topical ingredients like alcohol, fragrance, artificial dyes,
and preservatives like parabens. Quell a reaction by
applying a .05% over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream
for up to 5 days. If inflammation persists, head to the
derm.
Allergy symptoms may appear a few hours after using the
offending product—or up to 2 weeks later. It's important
to introduce new products slowly and not all at once, so
you can better pinpoint any problems. For people with
especially sensitive complexions, try products using a
patch test, suggests Rouleau: At night, apply the product
JOY FEELINGS MAGAZINE