An allergic reaction to soap will often result in a red, itchy rash or hives. The affected skin will also usually be dry and the area may swell. When fumes from a particular soap are inhaled, they can cause minor respiratory and eye problems. To determine the cause of a soap allergy, a person must take note of where the symptoms have occurred. If the symptoms of a soap allergy are present on areas of the body that come into contact with clothing, for example, the most likely cause would be laundry soap.
Skin irritation is usually the most common sign of an allergic reaction to soap. This irritation will usually be present on the areas of the skin that came into contact with the soap. In some cases, however, a person may break out in hives all over their body.
A red, itchy rash is usually the most common sign of an allergic reaction to soap. This rash will also usually be dry and scaly. In more severe cases, small blisters may also appear on the rash. Swelling can also occur, and this can make the skin feel tight. Skin rashes associated with soap allergies can also feel very hot to the touch.
Sometimes an allergic reaction to soap can be so severe that it can cause symptoms when the fumes are inhaled. These symptoms may include a runny nose and sneezing. Headaches, dizziness, and watery eyes can also be symptoms of a soap allergy.
Laundry soap is one of the most common causes of an allergic reaction. Symptoms of this type of allergic reaction will usually occur on areas of the body covered by clothing. An itchy red rash will often appear on or near the torso, groin, and legs, for example. Unless it is a severe allergy, symptoms do not usually appear on unclothed areas of the body, such as the face or hands.
Other types of soaps can also cause allergic reactions. Hand and dishwashing soap, for example, often cause skin irritation only on the hands. If a person thinks he is allergic to a particular type of soap, he should stop using it immediately.
An allergic reaction to soap can usually be treated with over-the-counter medications. Topical antihistamines or corticosteroids can be applied to the affected area to relieve external symptoms. Oral antihistamines can also help relieve these symptoms. Any soap that causes an allergic reaction should also be avoided.