What typically causes a skin allergy?

A skin allergy is typically caused by exposure to irritants or allergens, which provoke an immune response in the body. Allergens can include substances like certain metals, fragrances, preservatives, or specific ingredients in personal care products. When the skin comes into contact with these allergens, it can react by becoming inflamed, red, itchy, or even swollen, leading to conditions such as contact dermatitis.

The immune system mistakenly identifies these usually harmless substances as threats, triggering an allergic reaction. This mechanism highlights the importance of recognizing and avoiding known allergens to prevent skin allergies from developing.

Factors such as excessive sun exposure, lack of skin care routines, or genetic predisposition can influence skin health and may contribute to various skin conditions, but they are not the direct causes of skin allergies. Sun exposure can lead to irritation or damage but does not result in an allergic reaction in the same manner as allergens do. Similarly, while genetics can play a role in skin sensitivity or predisposition to allergies, it is not a direct cause of a skin allergy itself.