If you are allergic to cosmetics then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Even with all of the testing that cosmetics must go through prior to being made available to the general public, there are still a great many women who suffer from cosmetic allergies due to certain ingredients contained in these products. Unfortunately, most women do not realize that they are having any allergic reaction until it is too late. Rather than chalking it all up to the price one must pay for beauty, we have put together a list of ways that you can learn to recognize the signs of cosmetic allergies before it's too late.

The first way to recognize whether you may be suffering from cosmetic allergies, is to pay close attention to any dermatological changes your skin may undergo. This is especially true if you experience sudden itchy, flaky, or severe dry skin. Many women experience no other signs of their cosmetic allergies other than dry patches of skin. But, left untreated, these dry patches can eventually become much more severe. More severe cosmetic allergies can present themselves in the form of hives and peeling skin. This rash can spread over the entire face and neck if not treated immediately, and can lead to such severe consequences as skin cancer if left to go unchecked.

Typically, cosmetic allergies can be treated with an ointment containing steroids, such as hydrocortisone cream. More serious allergic reactions may require skin peels, shots, or other equally invasive treatments, but can usually be cleared up within a few weeks. It is important that you discontinue using any product that has caused your cosmetic allergies, but be sure to save the package so that your doctor can look at the ingredients. This is especially important, as cosmetic allergies can be caused by a great many different ingredients. Your doctor will need to know exactly what he or she is up against, so as to narrow down the best method of treatment.

In order to prevent cosmetic allergies from occurring in the first place, it is important that you only purchase products that are specifically labeled as being hypoallergenic. These products have been specially formulated without any of the ingredients that normally associated with allergic reactions. If you have particularly sensitive skin, though, even these may cause an allergic reaction. If that is the case, you may be better off staying away from cosmetic products altogether.

Cosmetic allergies can be quite irritating for women who want to look their best, but they are treatable, and can be avoided if you take care. Always discontinue the uses of cosmetics at the first sign of an allergy reaction. Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with allergies due to cosmetics such as vitamin E, folic acid, olbas oil and tea tree oil.

Vitamin E accelerates healing from rashes and aids in the functioning of the immune system.

Folic Acid is a member of the B-complex family. Folic Acid participates in coenzyme reaction that is needed for cell growth and new cell formation.

Olbas is used to increase the circulation in skin by opening up the skin pores. Olbas oil has been used for its healing properties in cultures around the world for centuries.

Tea Tree Oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties and helps sooth and treat problem skin. It is used to help tighten pores and firm skin for a more youthful, healthy appearance.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.