Skin Reactions: Allergies or Insect Bites After Spa Treatments? - Dermatology

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Skin care or insect repellent?


Hello, doctor.
Last night, I went to my usual spa for a skincare treatment, and when I got home, I noticed a slight swelling behind my ear, similar to a mosquito bite, with a bit of itching and redness.
About half an hour later, it subsided a little, and after I took a shower, I couldn't feel the itchy area anymore.
It shouldn't be a mosquito bite, so I'm wondering if I might be slightly allergic to the products used in today's skincare treatment.
Could you please advise if I should avoid using this treatment in the future? Additionally, why did the swelling disappear after my shower? Was it because I washed off the products? Thank you.

Xiao Mei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/24

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology


Hello: Based on the description provided, it is difficult to accurately diagnose the skin condition.
The redness, swelling, and itching that disappear within a few hours are more similar to urticaria (hives).
For a detailed introduction to urticaria, you can refer to the article from Med's Good Friend at https://www.medpartner.club/urticaria-treatment-prevention-introdution/amp/.
If the skin symptoms do not improve or worsen, it is advisable to consult a nearby dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment at http://www.derma.org.tw/user_finddoctor.php.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2020/06/24

More Info


After a spa treatment, experiencing skin reactions such as swelling, itching, and redness can indeed be concerning. Based on your description, it sounds like you may have had a mild allergic reaction or irritation from one of the products used during your skincare session. The symptoms you described, particularly the localized swelling and itchiness, are common signs of contact dermatitis or an allergic reaction to topical products.

When you mention that the symptoms subsided after about half an hour and were further alleviated after showering, it suggests that the reaction might have been triggered by a specific ingredient in the products used during your treatment. Washing your skin can help remove any residual product that may be causing irritation, which could explain why the symptoms diminished after your shower.

In terms of whether you should continue using the products or treatments from the spa, it is advisable to exercise caution. If you suspect that a particular product caused the reaction, it would be wise to avoid it in the future. You might also want to consider patch testing any new skincare products on a small area of skin before applying them more broadly. This can help you identify potential allergens without risking a widespread reaction.

If the symptoms recur or worsen, it would be prudent to consult with a dermatologist. They can provide a more thorough evaluation and may recommend allergy testing to identify specific sensitivities. Additionally, if you have a history of sensitive skin or allergies, informing your skincare provider about this can help them tailor treatments to your needs.

In summary, while it is possible that your symptoms were a mild reaction to a product used during your spa treatment, the fact that they resolved quickly is a positive sign. However, to ensure your skin's health and safety, it is best to avoid any products that have previously caused irritation and to consult with a healthcare professional if you have ongoing concerns. Always remember that your skin's reaction can vary based on many factors, including the season, your skin type, and any underlying conditions, so maintaining a dialogue with your skincare provider is essential for achieving the best results.

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