Allergic skin diseases are increasing at an alarming rate among children due to the indiscriminate use of non-hypoallergenic make-up, the European Academy for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) warns on the eve of its “Skin Allergy Meeting” held in Venice, Italy, Nov. 11-13.

With an increased use of products such as lotions, moisturizers, deodorants and make-up items that often contain allergens like fragrances or preservatives, the frequency of contact dermatitis among children has doubled in recent years.

Itchy skin patches, blisters or eczema can be directly triggered by contact with products that contain one of the 26 substances listed in EU guidelines as highly allergenic, especially when significant amounts are not appropriately indicated in the labels.

“More and more children are using specific make-up products that are triggering an allergic reaction on their young skin,” says Dr. Peter Schmid-Grendelmeier, Chairman of the 2010 EAACI “Skin Allergy Meeting.” “At the Congress, we are going to address this issue and make sure a correct diagnosis, a successful treatment, and, above all, a widespread prevention are put into place.”

Over 300 experts from all over the world, including dermatologists, allergists and paediatricians, are expected in Venice to take part in the International Meeting.

“This is the first such meeting with a focus on the link between skin diseases and allergies,” says Schmid-Grendelmeier, who is also the Chairman of EAACI’s Dermatology Section. “We will discuss new breakthrough approaches to increase the resilience of skin barriers at all ages, as well as new therapies to treat angioedema, the rapid swelling of dermis or tissues that can lead to suffocation and death.”

A common strategy for all health specialists involved in the treatment of a patient with skin diseases will also be discussed at the Congress, where presentations of clinical cases and hands-on sessions will accompany lectures and discussion panels.

Source: EAACI – The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology