Skin allergies (often referred to as contact dermatitis) are the result of exposure to a food allergen or an environmental allergen. The reaction can be hives, a rash, itching, eczema (an advanced case of dermatitis) or a combination of these. Uncomfortable, unattractive, and a nuisance ... the symptoms can be both emotionally and physically trying.

So if you suspect you may have a skin condition what comes next?

Before you begin a skin allergy treatment, you want to identify the offending allergen. Your allergist can help you with this.

Latex, hair dye, perfumes, make ups, bath powders, some household cleaning products, poison ivy, poison oak, gold, nickel and a number of other allergens are all possible culprits.

The most common allergy test to weed them out is the skin prick or scratch test. In this test, a number of potential allergy-causing substances are introduced into the skin (often at the same time) and then observed for up to an hour. Those that are a problem for the sufferer will cause a reaction, usually redness and swelling.

There is also a blood test (referred to as a RAST or radioallergosorbent test) that measures the level of an antibody known as IgE, which is only present during an allergic reaction.

Once the allergist has identified your areas of hypersensitivity, then the next step is your skin allergy treatment.

There is no cure for skin allergies. However, you can take steps to minimize the impact they have on your life.

The front line of defense is the most direct ... avoid the offending allergens. For example, if you have a skin allergy that reacts to a household cleaning product (one of the more common causes), then switch to a different cleaning product. By avoiding exposure to a caustic substance, you\'ve already won a big chunk of the battle.

If avoidance proves to be impossible or simply doesn\'t do the whole job, then your allergist may suggest medications. The most common medications used to control allergy symptoms are antihistamines, decongestants, and corticosteroids. Of these three, coricosteroids are generally the choice for skin allergies. Common forms include over-the-counter topical creams for hives, dermatitis, and insect sting reactions.

These drugs may be used independently or they may be used in combination. More recently, physicians have come to believe that when used in combination, they\'re more effective.

However, before you make any decisions about a skin allergy treatment, it\'s essential that you first consult with your physician. There is a degree of danger in taking any medication.