Healthy living
Body matters
Scrub up, but not too hard!
Over-vigorous washing may behind the recent rise in skin allergies and hay fever, say scientists
Allergies such as eczema and hay fever may be the result of behaviour that strips the skin of its outer protective layer, allowing allergens to pass through the skin barrier and cause an allergic reaction, say researchers from University College London's Institute of Child Health.
Their report, published in the journal, Trends in Immunology, suggests that harsh soaps, skin scrubs and biological washing powders are the main culprits.
This new research challenges the 'hygiene hypothesis' which blames our over-clean lifestyles for the rise in allergies. This theory argues that being too hygienic makes the immune system hypersensitive so it overreacts. The UCL researchers say that there is little evidence to support this claim.
The team carried out experiments that showed that if the outer layer of skin is stripped away, even by using a piece of sticky tape, allergens were able to penetrate the skin.
'Strong soaps strip oil off the skin, which is an integral component of the skin barrier,' warned co-author Professor Callard. 'The use of loofahs and body scrubs also has an effect and then people use body lotions, but these are not replacing the same oils.'
However the scientists are not suggesting that we stay out of the bathroom altogether. 'We are not saying that people should not wash,' added Callard. 'But if they overdo it they can compromise the skin barrier.'
The UK has one of the highest rates of allergy in the world, along with America, Australia and New Zealand. One in three people in Britain can expect to suffer some form of allergy during their lifetime. In the last 20 years the rate of eczema and asthma has at least doubled and the reasons behind the rise are still unclear.
Allergy UK says that washing your hands frequently will not cause allergies but you could have a skin reaction to a soap or scrub. 'You are not going to get a reaction unless your immune system is sensitive,’ says a spokesperson for the charity.
Information on this site is for interest only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should consult your own doctor about any specific health concerns.
