The duration
The duration of an allergic reaction is not easily predictable. The most important factor in the duration of an allergic reaction is the elimination of the potential allergen. If the allergen can be found and the allergen contact is stopped, the skin reactions usually disappear gradually within a few days.
If it is not possible to find the allergen, an anti-allergic therapy should be carried out. This too should usually take effect within a few days. The therapy – usually in the form of antihistamines in tablet form – should be taken for a few weeks, then an attempt to stop it can be made.
The course of the disease
The course of the disease is strongly dependent on whether the triggering allergen can be detected and the allergen contact stopped. Then the allergic reaction usually subsides within a few days. In some allergies, however, the allergen cannot be detected. In these cases, the course of the disease can be much longer and an anti-allergic therapy is often recommended.
Special features of the child
Infants in particular are very sensitive to fragrances or other ingredients contained in cosmetics or detergents. It is therefore generally recommended to use as few cosmetics as possible. Especially in infancy, water is often sufficient for bathing.
Shower baths and care creams are usually not necessary at all. The less cosmetics are used, the lower the risk of the child developing an allergic skin reaction. This also applies to washing with fabric softener: In infancy, fabric softener should be avoided completely when washing clothes.
Children can also suffer from contact allergies such as nickel allergy. The possible types of skin rashes are as varied as in adults. In case of doubt, the treating paediatrician should be consulted to be able to assess the cause of the allergic reaction more precisely. You can find more information on the subject of skin rashes in children here.
Special features of pregnancy
Allergic skin reactions during pregnancy are not significantly different from those of non-pregnant women. If an allergic skin reaction occurs, local ointments/gels such as Fenistil or ointments containing cortisone can be used without hesitation. Antihistamines in tablet form such as Cetirizin® or Loratadin® can also be taken. A sufficient number of studies have been conducted to rule out any negative influence on the child.
