Allergy to antiseptics: what to do, how to treat, which antiseptic to choose

Allergy to Antiseptics: What to Do, How to Treat, and Which Antiseptic to Choose

A tendency to allergic diseases is a serious problem in modern society. Allergies can appear suddenly in anyone, and predicting their onset is impossible. Following the recent pandemic, it became clear that many people are troubled by allergies to antiseptics. So, what should you do if symptoms of this condition arise? How can you cope with it? Are there antiseptics that do not cause allergies?

What Can Trigger an Allergy?

An allergy to antiseptics can be caused by various chemical substances in their composition. The main components that most often trigger allergic reactions include:

• Alcohol (ethanol or isopropanol) – the primary ingredient in most skin antiseptics. While alcohol itself rarely causes allergies, frequent use can lead to skin irritation, which is sometimes mistaken for an allergic reaction.

• Chlorhexidine – a powerful antiseptic commonly used in medical settings. It is known to be an allergen that can cause reactions ranging from mild rashes to anaphylaxis.

• Fragrances and preservatives – substances added to improve scent and extend the product’s shelf life. These components can lead to contact dermatitis and allergic reactions.

Determining the allergen is often possible only through trial and error.

Symptoms of Allergy to Antiseptics

An allergy to antiseptics can manifest with various symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe reactions. The main possible signs include:

• Redness of the skin in areas where the antiseptic was applied
• Itching and burning at treated sites
• Swelling of the skin and the appearance of blisters or welts
• Dryness and flaking of the skin, sometimes leading to cracks
• Contact dermatitis – inflammation of the skin occurring upon direct contact with the allergen

In rare cases, anaphylactic shock may develop, requiring immediate medical attention.

What to Do in Case of an Allergic Reaction to an Antiseptic

If you experience an allergic reaction to an antiseptic, it is important to respond quickly and correctly:

1. Stop using the product immediately. Even if it is a familiar product that previously did not cause a reaction, re-exposure may worsen the situation.

2. Wash the affected areas of skin. Thoroughly rinse off any remaining antiseptic with warm water. Avoid using soap or other irritating substances to prevent exacerbating the symptoms.

3. Use a soothing cream or ointment. Hypoallergenic creams containing panthenol or lanolin can help reduce inflammation and speed up skin healing. Antihistamine creams can relieve itching.

4. Take an antihistamine medication. If symptoms are severe, oral antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine, loratadine, cetirizine, or others) can be used to reduce the allergic reaction.

5. Consult a dermatologist or allergist if symptoms persist or worsen. A specialist will clarify the diagnosis and help select the most effective treatment.

Which Antiseptic to Choose if You Have Allergies?

If you are prone to allergic reactions, you don’t necessarily have to stop using antiseptics. Instead, it’s advisable to be more responsible in choosing antiseptics to minimize the risk of irritation. Doctors recommend:

• Trying a product with a different composition. If you notice irritation from an ethanol-based antiseptic, consider switching to one with isopropyl alcohol or chlorhexidine, or vice versa. For example, Manorm Expert contains ethanol, Manorm Cristal contains isopropyl alcohol, and Pelesep RP contains chlorhexidine. There are also antiseptics with fundamentally different compositions, such as Pelesep, which is based on 2-phenoxyethanol and alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride.

• Choosing products with minimal active ingredients. This reduces the likelihood of developing an allergy and helps identify the cause if one does occur. For instance, Manorm gel contains only six components, one of which is regular water, while the others are relatively hypoallergenic substances.

• Opting for products with moisturizing components. Products containing glycerin or aloe vera help maintain skin moisture balance and reduce the risk of dryness and irritation. All varieties of antiseptics from MDM Group contain glycerin and D-panthenol, which are unlikely to cause negative reactions while gently caring for the skin.

Allergy to antiseptics is a common issue. However, when it arises, you can find products that provide a high level of hygiene and protection against infectious diseases without harming the skin.