Medicines and products for skin allergy

Medicines for skin allergy reduce itching and inflammation, but the most important step is avoiding the trigger. The choice depends on the type of allergy and how severe it is. Use medicines as directed and review long-term use with a doctor.

Moisturisers (emollients) Plain, fragrance-free creams or ointments applied several times a day repair the skin barrier and reduce flares, especially in eczema and chronic contact dermatitis.

Antihistamines

• Non-sedating tablets such as cetirizine, levocetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine or bilastine help hives and itching from allergy.
• Sedating antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine or hydroxyzine may help sleep, but cause drowsiness. Avoid driving, and take care in older adults.
• Antihistamines do little for eczema itch, which is not mainly histamine-driven.

Topical steroids Mild to moderate steroid creams reduce inflammation in eczema and contact dermatitis. Use the weakest effective strength for short periods as directed. Do not use strong steroids on the face, groin or in children without advice, and avoid self-treatment with over-the-counter steroid or combination creams, which can thin the skin and mask other infections.

Other prescription options

• Calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus, pimecrolimus) for sensitive skin areas.
• Short courses of oral steroids for severe reactions.
• Antibiotics when there is a skin infection.
• Newer medicines such as dupilumab, JAK inhibitors, omalizumab or cyclosporine for severe eczema or chronic hives, prescribed by a specialist.

Emergency medicine People at risk of anaphylaxis may need an adrenaline auto-injector, with training on its use. Call 112 after using it.

Pregnancy and children Some antihistamines and creams are safer than others. Ask a doctor before use.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive) Herbal creams and pills are widely sold, but some contain hidden steroids. Check with your doctor.

Remember Do not stop or restart steroid creams without advice, and seek urgent care for swelling or breathing trouble.