HAND SANITIZER: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Allergen…but not always Hand Sanitizer “Hand sanitizer” does not appear in published lists of top contact allergens. However, most contain allergens like fragrances, dyes, “amido-amines,” and vitamin E. If your hand sanitizer contains alcohol but no allergens, then that’s great! The alcohol normally found in hand sanitizers (isopropyl or ethyl) is drying to the skin and an irritant, but it […]
ALCOHOL: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen. This is a little tricky but let’s break it down: the most common alcohol (isopropyl, ethyl) used for disinfection is an irritant — and it is certainly drying —but it is not a common contact allergen. For more on the difference between irritant and allergic reactions, see It’s Complicated: Allergic Versus Irritant Reaction. Complicating things […]
Less Is More In Skincare, Too!
SIMPLIFY. “Less is more” is a healthy philosophy for pretty much everything in life. In food, less processed means more nutrients and less junk. Studies show that mindfulness — clearing the mind of clutter and focusing on the now — has significant health benefits for the brain and aging. In skincare, simple formulations with as […]
Top Recommendations for Patients With Eczema
Eczema is characterized by inflammation, barrier defect, blistering, itching, and very dry skin. Eczematous skin can get so dry that it cracks…and then microbial infection can become an additional problem. What to do to keep skin with eczema smooth, happy, and healthy…and steroid free? Let’s start with what not to do. What To Avoid: Harsh soaps; Hot water; Frequent […]
Eczema Flare-Up? Here’s What To Do…
If you’re noticing a flare coming, try staving it off with a steroid-free soothing balm or anti-inflammatory balm. If you experience a flare-up, follow what your doctor prescribes. First, practice mindfulness. Eczema is an inflammatory condition. Panic and stress can fuel inflammation. Make your first action to practice your calming techniques such as meditation and breathing […]
What Causes Eczema?
Eczema causes include… a. Contact dermatitis From… Allergens in skincare and makeup; Clothing, jewelry, eyeglasses, accessories; Phone and computer materials and protective cases; Flowers, plants, and fruits; Insecticides, dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents, house cleaning solutions; Airborne allergens from perfumes, room sprays, even vaping. There are many more common contact allergens than you might think. This is why […]
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is… …not any “sensitive skin.” Eczema is a general term for atopic dermatitis, which is the inflammation in the upper dermis of the skin. This inflammation brings about “edema,” which is swelling from fluid retention. The fluid then moves upwards to the epidermis (the skin’s topmost layer), collects in between cells, and eventually becomes fluid-filled “bubbles” […]
How To Do A Skin Fast
At VMV Hypoallergenics, we have received less than 0.1% reports of reactions in over 30 years, and almost all of those reactions were due to us not being able to make recommendations based on the individual’s patch test results, incorrect use of the product, a cross reaction with another product, or an underlying irritation that might […]
VITAMIN B: Allergen or Not An Allergen?
Not An Allergen Vitamin B While not a common contact allergen, there may be reason to “B” cautious. Vitamin B, in foods and supplements, is linked to acne. This is truer more for vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin or cyanocobalamin — new research is deepening our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind this effect) but also for vitamin […]