Skin allergies can be a very painful and frustrating condition for its sufferers. It can be even more frustrating when the specific cause of the allergy cannot be easily determined by clear cause and effect associations. A skin allergy patch test is an easy, non-invasive method of determining what allergens are affecting a patient.

Skin allergies are caused when the skin is exposed to a substance that causes an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Skin allergies can vary widely from patient to patient, and substances that trigger a reaction in one patient may not cause any discomfort for others. Skin allergies can be hereditary and more common in patients who have a family history of allergies, and due to the ever changing nature of our skin, can even develop over time and constant exposure. Common allergens include fragrance, such as is found in laundry detergents and soaps, dust, pollen, and animal dander.

Skin allergy symptoms can also manifest in a variety of symptoms. The most common reaction is an itchy rash. The rash is sometimes accompanied by redness and swelling, or even a burning sensation. If left untreated, or if the allergen continues to irritate the skin, blisters may form on the skin at the site of irritation. The rash can also develop further symptoms such as oozing, crusting, or peeling, especially if the patient scratches at the itchy rash site. This can cause great discomfort and even pain if the allergen is not removed.

A rash is not necessarily an indication of a skin allergy, however, as rashes can also be caused by other conditions or even just spurred by an irritant. It is important to get to the root cause of the condition in order to avoid further flare ups. Two simple tests performed by a dermatologist can help determine specific allergens: a skin prick test or a patch test. At Dsyon Dermatology, we utilize the skin patch test.

A skin patch test can check for allergic reactions to many substances at once, in a simple, non-invasive procedure that does not cause discomfort or pain. During this test, many small paper tapes, each containing a small amount of a common allergen, are applied to the back. These tapes are left for two days, after which all the tapes are removed and the skin examined for any reactions. A few more days after removing the tapes, the doctor will examine the back for a final check for further reactions and be able to diagnose what allergens to which a patient is reactive.

If you are suffering from a rash that you believe to be an allergic reaction, please contact us at our Arizona practice for a consultation with our experienced Tucson dermatologist. Dr. Senait Dyson is one of the premiere dermatologists in Tucson, AZ, and will be able to help you determine the true cause of your skin concerns!