The symptoms of an allergic reaction typically manifest in the area that was exposed to the potential allergen. A sting from an insect can produce swelling at the sting site while facial contact with the allergens most often results to facial breakouts.
The allergens that are also inhaled can trigger respiratory issues as well. The allergic reactions to various materials can trigger redness, itchiness and scaly or bumpy skin. Once the individual experiences these symptoms alone, allergic contact dermatitis is a likely diagnosis. If combined with other physical reactions, facial breakouts can indicate a serious allergic condition that might require immediate medical attention to prevent the symptoms from getting worse.
Pet allergies
The fur or feathers of pets such as cats, dogs and birds might be coated with allergens that can trigger contact allergies in some highly sensitive individuals. The chemicals present in pet dander, urine and saliva can trigger allergic reactions once in contact with the skin or inhaled.
Petting cats, dogs, birds or other warm-blooded animals and then touching the face or direct facial contact can trigger facial breakouts of the allergy symptoms. The itchy rashes from contact allergies from pets typically form red-colored, patchy hives rather than small-sized bumps on the skin.
Toxic plant allergies
It is important to note that toxic plants such as poison ivy can cause contact dermatitis only when their resins touch the body and absorbed through the skin. While gardeners and hikers might expose their faces to these plants, they can also transfer the plant resin via facial contact with contaminated items or even pets.
Handling of plants using the hands and then scratching the face can also spread the painful rash. The facial breakouts caused by poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac include raised bumps, red-colored streaks and severe itchiness. This is why it is vital that you know how to identify these allergenic plants while hiking or camping outdoors.
Chemical allergies
Contact allergies to various chemicals present in common household and skin care products can also cause facial breakouts. Take note that the ingredients in detergents, solvents and adhesives are capable of triggering allergic reactions upon contact to the face. The individual can also experience allergy symptoms after using perfumes, deodorants and other active ingredients present in topical medications that are used on the face, often without knowing the specific sources of the rashes.
The allergenic soaps, cosmetics, sunscreens and detergents can come in contact with the face directly or transferred via clothing or pillow cases. The chemicals present in dyes, fragrances and preservatives most often trigger allergic reactions to certain skin care products. With this in mind, the individual should carefully read the labels of products being used to ensure that there are no allergy-causing contents present.