Allergies That Cause Facial Breakouts

Allergy symptoms most often arise in the area near where the allergenic substance was ingested. For instance, an allergenic insect sting on the hand may produce swelling at the sting site, while facial contact with allergens most often results in facial breakouts. Allergens that are also inhaled may produce respiratory problems as well. Allergic reactions to many different materials can cause redness, itching and scaly or bumpy skin. When patients experience these symptoms alone, allergic contact dermatitis is a likely diagnosis 2. In combination with other physical reactions, facial breakouts may signify more serious allergy conditions.

Toxic Plant Allergies

Toxic plants such as poison ivy cause contact allergies only where their hazardous resins touch the body and become ingested through skin absorption. While gardeners or hikers may expose their faces to these plants, they can also transfer the plant resins via facial contact with contaminated items or even pets. Touching plants with the hands and then scratching the face can also spread the painful rash. The University of Maryland (UM) Medical Center reports that facial allergy symptoms from poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac include red streaks, raised bumps and severe itching.

Pet Allergies

Detergent Allergy Symptoms

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Pets' fur or feathers can become coated with allergens that cause contact allergies in some people. Chemicals in pet dander, saliva and urine produce allergic reactions when patients contact or inhale these substances, which may dry on pets’ bodies and become invisible. According to the Mayo Clinic, petting dogs, cats, birds or other warm-blooded animals and then touching the face or having direct facial contact with animals can trigger skin allergy symptoms 12. Itchy rashes from pet contact allergies tend to form red, patchy hives, rather than smaller bumps on the skin.

Chemical Allergies

Contact allergies to many chemicals found in everyday household and skin care products can also cause facial breakouts. The UM Medical Center notes that one of many ingredients in solvents, detergents and adhesives can provoke allergic reactions upon facial contact. Patients may also experience allergy symptoms from perfumes, deodorants and the active ingredients in topical medicines that touch the face, often without knowing the specific sources of their rashes. Allergenic cosmetics, soaps, detergents and sunscreens may contact the face directly or be transferred via clothing or pillow cases. As the American Academy of Dermatology reports, chemicals in fragrances, dyes and preservatives most often elicit allergic reactions to skin care products.