Along with the anticipation for warmer weather comes the inevitable dread of allergy season. Allergy-sufferers understand the onset of spring also equals the start of puffy eyes, dry, itchy skin, and consistent redness from blowing their noses one too many times.

If you deal with seasonal allergies, it’s recommended that you consult with an allergist to figure out what solutions work best for you. OTC medications—called antihistamines—may be recommended to offset your symptoms. But because allergies often have a major impact on your skin (and FYI: your skincare habits can exacerbate those symptoms), there are at-home actions you can take for some relief. Here are five tips for keeping your spring allergies at bay.

SOOTHE WITH A HYDRATING MASK

Allergies cause the skin to become inflamed, as the excess of histamines makes tissues swell. As we know from placing an ice pack on a swollen eye, cold compresses relieve inflammation. To help calm redness and puffiness (also known as “Allergy Face”), smooth on the Look Alive Hydrating Plumping Mask. Formulated with rosehip seed oil and aloe leaf juice, it naturally cools and refreshes the skin for instant relief. To up its soothing properties, you can store it in a skincare fridge before using. Bonus points if you use a jade roller to apply, paying special attention to affected areas.

BRIGHTEN DARK CIRCLES AND UNDEREYE BAGS

Dark circles and undereye bags are caused by a myriad of factors—not just a bad night’s sleep—including seasonal allergies. Also known as “allergic shiners”, these dark circles appear when you’re congested (not just nasally), causing blood to pool in the undereye area. Improving blood circulation and flushing out the liquid that’s stuck can lighten circles. Coffee seed extract—found in Vacation Eyes Brightening Gel—will get your circulation moving while simultaneously brightening the eye area. Tip: Give yourself an eye massage with rapid taps of your fingertips moving from the inner corner of your eye out toward your temples. Or, use a facial acupressure tool. This helps facilitate that drainage of fluid. 

REMOVE POLLEN WITH A GENTLE CLEANSER

Whether you have traditionally sensitive skin or not, allergies cause skin to become irritated much more easily. And if you have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, you may notice more flareups than usual during the warmer months. Scale back on exfoliants or peels if they appear to be too harsh for your skin, but don’t forget to properly cleanse—especially after spending time outdoors and particularly the eye area—as pollen can cling onto your skin. 

SHOP CLEAN SKINCARE

Again, because allergies can cause your skin to become more sensitive than usual, avoiding potentially triggering ingredients is more vital than ever. According to the FDA, fragrance and preservatives (such as parabens) fall under the most common allergens found in cosmetics. Switch to clean, paraben-free skincare when you can and be on the lookout for products that are fragrance-free and are Sensitive Skin-Approved. This counts for ingredients you eat and drink as well—studies show sugar and alcohol weaken your immune system and can worsen allergy symptoms. 

STRENGTHEN THE MOISTURE BARRIER

The best way to combat seasonal allergies when it comes to your skincare is to get on the defense. Your skin’s barrier is made to protect against environmental elements like pollen, but it can’t do a good job if it’s not properly taken care of. Get a good night’s sleep, stay hydrated by drinking enough water and moisturizing—we recommend Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream for warmer months—as allergies can cause dryness as well.

Of course, don’t forget sunscreen! Our SPF, Guards Up, defends against UV rays, environmental pollution, and blue light damage.