It’s one thing to suffer from everyday issues like dehydration, clarity and lines, but what if your skin is higher-maintenance and your problems need more specific solutions? MELANIE MORRIS and specialist dermatology nurse Selene Daly examine the most common Irish skin complaints and address how to handle them.

Contact Dermatitis

WHAT?S GOING ON HERE?

This is, quite simply, when your skin has a reaction to something you’ve been in contact with. You need to find the source of the ?contact? irritation, and eliminate it. Easier said than done, but chemical overload can often be the issue, so minimise chemical contact straightaway. Interestingly, you can develop a contact allergy over time and something that may not have caused a reaction before suddenly can induce a flare-up.

WHAT?S THE SOLUTION?

Your dermatologist or food allergist will help. Start by treating the symptoms of red, irritated skin and strip back your shampoo, shower gels and skincare to formulations that take out known common chemical allergens. Do not underestimate perfume – on average, a perfume contains over 200 chemicals, and rubbing that into the skin is not good for the barrier. Remember, if you are reactive, patch test the skin below the ear for 24 hours before use.

PRODUCTS TO TRY

The seaweed in Seavite products helps calm and hydrate irritated skin. Cleanse twice daily with the Super Nutrient Comfort Cleanser, €25, followed by the Toning Sea Spray, €25, Radiance Serum, €57.50, and then Soothing & Replenishing Face Cream, €47.50, to boost hydration without causing irritation.
For daily showering (not more than once a day to prevent further parching), the Elave Dermatological range of shampoo, €7.20, conditioner, €8.20, and shower gel, €7.20, will offer fast relief and keep dermatitis at bay.

This article originally appeared in the May issue of IMAGE, on shelves now.