From the Guidelines
If you're experiencing an allergic reaction to mascara, stop using the product immediately and gently remove all traces from your eyelashes using a mild cleanser. For mild symptoms like redness, itching, or slight swelling, apply a cold compress for 10-15 minutes several times daily and consider taking an oral antihistamine like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) 25-50mg every 4-6 hours or Claritin (loratadine) 10mg once daily to reduce allergic symptoms 1.
Key Considerations
- For eye irritation, preservative-free artificial tears can provide relief.
- If you develop severe symptoms such as significant swelling, intense pain, vision changes, or spreading rash, seek immediate medical attention.
- The allergic reaction is likely caused by preservatives, fragrances, or pigments in the mascara that trigger your immune system to release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals.
- When purchasing new mascara, look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formulations designed for sensitive eyes, and consider doing a patch test on your wrist before applying to your eyes.
- Mascara should also be replaced every 3-6 months to prevent bacterial contamination that can increase reaction risk.
Management of Anaphylaxis
In cases of anaphylaxis, epinephrine is the treatment of choice, preferably administered intramuscularly, although subcutaneous administration is acceptable 1.
Additional Measures
- Antihistamines and systemic corticosteroids are secondary medications that might help to modify systemic reactions but should never replace epinephrine in the treatment of anaphylaxis.
- Intravenous saline or supplemental oxygen might be required in severe cases 1.
- Patient education on the risks of future anaphylaxis and the benefits of avoidance measures is crucial 1.
From the Research
Treatment for Allergic Reaction to Mascara
- The treatment for an allergic reaction to mascara, a type of makeup for eyelashes, is not directly addressed in the provided studies. However, the studies discuss the treatment for anaphylaxis and allergic reactions in general.
- According to 2 and 3, the first-line emergency treatment for anaphylaxis is the immediate injection of intramuscular epinephrine.
- Other drugs such as corticosteroids or antihistamines are secondary options and should not delay epinephrine administration 2, 3.
- The management of anaphylaxis involves removal of the trigger, early administration of intramuscular epinephrine, supportive care for the patient's airway, breathing, and circulation, and a period of observation for potential biphasic reactions 3.
- Corticosteroids may be used in the emergency management of anaphylaxis, although there is no compelling evidence to support or oppose their use 4.
- Patients should be monitored for a biphasic reaction and managed with an emergency action plan, referral to an allergist, and patient education on avoidance of triggers and appropriate use of an epinephrine auto-injector 3.