Home remedies for skin allergy

Home care helps calm itching and protect the skin while it heals. It works best together with avoiding the trigger and, when needed, medicines from a doctor.

Find and avoid the trigger

• Think about what changed before the rash began, such as a new soap, cosmetic, jewellery, medicine, food or plant.
• Stop using the suspected product and keep a simple diary.
• Wear gloves for cleaning and wet work, with cotton liners under rubber gloves.

Gentle skin care

• Wash with lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid hot showers and harsh soaps.
• Pat the skin dry, and apply a plain, fragrance-free moisturiser within three minutes, and several times a day.
• Wear soft, loose cotton clothing and avoid wool and rough fabrics.
• Keep nails short, and use cotton gloves at night if you scratch in your sleep.

Soothe the itch

• Cool, damp compresses for 10 to 15 minutes.
• A lukewarm oatmeal bath.
• Calamine lotion on non-oozing rash.
• Keep your room cool, and avoid sweating.

Remedies with limited evidence Aloe vera gel, coconut oil, neem water, turmeric paste and cold milk compresses are popular. They may feel soothing, but they are not proven treatments, and can cause allergy in some people. Patch-test first. Do not use lemon, vinegar, toothpaste, kerosene or strong chemicals on the skin.

For infants and children Use only plain moisturisers and cool compresses. Do not apply herbal oils, pastes or steam, and do not use steroid creams without a doctor's advice.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Cooling, simple care and clean, dry skin are traditional and supportive only.

When to see a doctor See a doctor if the rash is widespread, painful, oozing with pus, affects the face or eyes, or does not settle in a week or two.

Emergency Lip, tongue or throat swelling, or breathing trouble, needs emergency help (112).

Remember Moisturise often and avoid triggers. Most mild reactions settle in one to two weeks.