Here’s How to Celebrate the 4th of July in Allergy-Free Comfort

It's no secret. Allergy triggers are all over the place, even in fun and carefree environments. During Independence Day, most Americans flock to the great outdoors, aspiring to have a relaxing experience.

Despite the red, white, and blue decorations, allergens and irritants lurk everywhere during the celebration. However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the lovely weather and take part in outgoing activities, particularly those with skin allergies and sensitivities. 

When celebrating the 4th, it's important to remember that even the smallest or simplest celebratory activities can make or break your holiday. To further protect yourself from sudden flare-ups that can easily derail your plans, try these tips to keep your skin in check .

WHEN GOING ON PICNICS

Ensuring a fun time outdoors requires taking appropriate precautions, especially when going on picnics. If you plan to sit on the grass and watch the local fireworks show, beware of grass pollen. 

According to CuristRelief, some people may be allergic to grass if they find themselves having allergy symptoms when walking around the park or sitting on the grass. When the skin has been exposed to certain grasses, rashes may occur.

Other symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and watery eyes may also be experienced upon exposure to outdoor allergens. How to combat? 

• Use a picnic blanket. 

Sit on a blanket to avoid direct contact. Avoid fleece blankets because they can catch grass particles more easily, and be sure to wash your picnic blanket after use to avoid bringing allergens inside. 

If you don’t have a blanket, you may use our Women's Hypoallergenic Shawl, built to protect your skin from exposure to the sun and contact with allergens and other irritants. 

• Wear long garments

If you're concerned that sitting too long in the grass may trigger your skin allergies, ease your worries by wearing long tops and bottoms that provide coverage, comfort, and protection for your skin.

• Do some post-picnic routines

As soon as you get home, wash your body and hair, and change your clothes to get rid of any pollen from your body. This way, you won't be bringing them into your home.  

WHEN ATTENDING PARTIES 

Balloons, no matter how appealing they seem, can make your day uncomfortable. Anyone with a latex allergy should exercise caution when attending community picnics or events because latex balloons may occasionally be used as decorations or balloon benders. 

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, latex allergy symptoms may include hives, itching, a stuffy or runny nose. It can cause asthma symptoms of wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and worse, anaphylaxis. "Symptoms begin within minutes after exposure to latex-containing products," the health organization explained, stressing that avoidance of products and devices that contain latex is the key to preventing latex exposure. 

WHEN DOING OUTDOOR BARBECUES 

Ribs, chicken, and burgers. Who doesn't love outdoor-friendly food? If you've been invited to attend an outdoor barbecue with family and friends, it's crucial to watch out for smoke. 

For people with asthma, anything that causes smoke is already a red flag to take note of. Smoke can be a powerful irritant that can set off or worsen eye and nasal allergy symptoms. Charcoal lighter fluid fumes, when inhaled, may also trigger a reaction in some children. 

To help keep smoke out of your lungs, the ACAAI suggests using an N95 mask. "Keep your reliever inhaler with you in case of an asthma attack, and consider going to a concert instead," said the ACAAI. 

The 4th of July is a day of amusement, freedom, and patriotism. Amid the captivating fireworks and joyful parades, preparations to protect your skin's comfort should be part of the plan to make way for an allergy-free celebration. To learn more about Independence Day, click here. 

You may also read our related blog: Avoiding Asthma and Allergy Flare-ups this 4th of July.