My Forsyth _ Spring 2023

Spring
SKIN CARE
By Weston Waxweiler, MD
With warmer weather and Spring just around the corner, it becomes important to revisit how
seasonal allergies affect our skin. Those of us who have seasonal allergies tend to experience
dry, itchy, irritated skin during these periods. In those predisposed, allergens in the air can lead
to eczema or hive-like outbreaks on the skin that make life miserable just when the weather
starts to turn pleasant again.
Airborne allergens like pollen, which we breath in, cause a cascade
in our immune system that triggers our body to release histamine.
Histamine is made to protect us but, in this situation, causes more
harm than good. Specifically, histamine release causes too much
inflammation which in turn leads to allergic symptoms like skin
sensitivity and itching.
It’s important to be aware of your skin allergy symptoms. While many
of us can quickly connect seasonal allergies with things like itchy eyes
and a runny nose, many of us don't make that same connection when
we get scaly, pink, itchy patches of skin. The subsequent scratching
of our skin can cause discomfort, sleep problems, and even learning
issues. Long term damage can include things like skin sensitivity,
thickening, and scarring.
In terms of treatment, the best possible treatment is simply avoiding
the allergen (which may be impossible in the spring). There are other
treatment strategies though, including:
• Turn on your air conditioner to filter your air.
• Keep windows closed.
• Avoid going outside for prolonged periods when pollen
counts are high.
• Consider using a daily second-generation antihistamine.
The most important thing to remember is to try to leave your irritated
skin alone in terms of itching. A barrier repair cream or moisturizer can
help maintain skin integrity during these allergic flares. Over-the-counter
hydrocortisone can help with severely itchy skin as well.
Dr. Weston T. Waxweiler M.D., FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Waxweiler is originally from Duluth GA and graduated
from Duluth High School. He completed his undergraduate degree with honors at Davidson College on a full-scholarship. While an
undergraduate, Dr. Waxweiler developed a desire to practice medicine while working on a medical study-abroad trip in Kikuyu, Kenya. He
then went on to medical school at the Medical College of Georgia where he graduated with honors as well. Dr. Waxweiler completed his
dermatologic residency at the University of California Irvine where he gained extensive experience with skin cancer, pediatric dermatology,
and cosmetics. 770-800-3455 | cleavermedicalgroup.com.
38 MYFORSYTHMAG.COM SPRING VOLUME 2023 XII | ISSUE 1