HOW TO COPE WITH SEASONAL ALLERGIES
With approximately 40 million Americans suffering from seasonal allergies, chances are that more than a few BITB readers are among them. Sneezing and wheezing your way through Spring is not so pretty. Signs of this can include congestion, itchy, red, swollen or watery eyes and many other less-than-desirable symptoms.
To reduce your exposure to pollen and other seasonal triggers:
- Remove your shoes and change your clothing upon entering your home.
- Shower and wash your hair before bedtime.
- Sleep with the windows closed and use an air purifier in your bedroom and the rooms you inhabit most.
- Wear sunglasses when outdoors.
Besides feeling under-the-weather, allergies can really take a toll on your looks. Here, what you need to know to get through the season in style:
REHYDRATE & DEPUFF: Begin each day by drinking a glass of water to replenish fluids and reduce swelling and dark circles. Soothe irritated, puffy eyes by applying cool tea bags over the eye area and calm an irritated complexion with a cold compress to the entire face.
USE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY SKINCARE: Skincare with anti-inflammatory ingredients will help reduce inflammation, swelling and/or redness so it’s especially crucial during allergy season. Look for ingredients like Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) and Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) to help heal and repair your skin.
REDUCE REDNESS: To combat a ruddy complexion, redness around the nose and pronounced dark circles you need to perfect your complexion without overdoing it. You can neutralize blotchiness with a tinted moisturizer, makeup primer, hydrating BB or CC cream and concealer. Steer clear of pink-based products and opt for yellow-based ones instead. Finish with a warm bronzer instead of blush.
USE WATERPROOF MAKEUP: Though you’ll want to subscribe to the less-is-more philosophy if your eyes tend to get red or runny, waterproof mascara and eyeliner in deep blue shades will make the whites of your eyes look whiter.
EYEDROPS: Eyedrops formulated for allergy-prone eyes will help soothe irritation and stop red eyes in its tracks.
5 BEST BETS TO LOOK YOUR BEST:
Perricone MD Face Finishing Moisturizer ($69) has a wonderfully creamy, smooth texture plus anti-inflammatory and anti-aging benefits. Formulated with Alpha Lipoic Acid, DMAE and Vitamin C Ester hydrates, nourishes, protects and soothes.
perriconemd.com
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20 Sunscreen ($44) gives you hydration and buildable coverage for a natural, healthy glow. Apply, blend well and repeat in areas that need more coverage. Suitable for sensitive skin.
lauramercier.com
Benefit Lemon Aid Color Correcting Eyelid Primer ($20) is a cult favorite for a reason — it instantly hides redness and discoloration around the eye and other areas of the face. To apply, use fingertips to gently tap on where needed and lightly blend. Ideal for all complexions.
benefitcosmetics.com
Sephora Collection Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner in Shimmer Navy ($13) glides on easily for a long-lasting eye brightening finish.
sephora.com
Visine -A.C. Eye Allergy Relief ($8) contains an astringent and redness reliever to stop itchy, red, uncomfortable eyes on contact. Can be used up to 4 times a day.
drugstore.com
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