I have an allergic reaction on my face. What should I do?
When sudden redness, itching or swelling starts on the face, the first step is to stop using any new product.
Author: Uzm. Dr. Oya Oylum Argun
When sudden redness, itching or swelling starts on the face, the first step is to stop using any new product. A cream, make-up, perfume or hair dye tried in recent days is often the first suspect.
What to do first:
- Wash the face with lukewarm water, without rubbing.
- Hold a cold, clean cloth on it for a few minutes.
- Do not try new products, and do not wear make-up.
- Avoid scratching.
Swelling of the lips, eyelids or tongue, difficulty breathing or trouble swallowing is an emergency. Do not wait. Go to an emergency department.
Putting a steroid cream you have at home on the face by yourself is not recommended. The skin of the face is thin, and the wrong cream can change the picture and make the diagnosis harder.
If the redness has not gone within a few days, is spreading or keeps coming back, you need a consultation. If reactions keep recurring, a patch test can be done to find out what you are reacting to.
This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice. The right approach for you is decided at the consultation.
Last updated: 16 September 2026
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