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Are you allergic to love?

Dr Clifford Bassett, Allergist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC advises steps to make for a more fun-filled and allergy-friendly Valentine’s Day in 2024.

Talk to your partner

Intimate contact with individuals who’ve eaten or consumed suspect foods or medicines can cause problems for those with a significant food allergy. It’s always better to play it safe by making sure that everyone knows that in all situations these foods are strictly off-limits.

Dark Chocolate & Oysters

Some believe that dark chocolate and oysters (are crustacean, and therefore shellfish), are purported to have an aphrodisiac effect which is more of an urban legend, what many might not realize that shellfish is the number one food allergies in adults.

Flowers

Valentine’s Day: a time for love, romance, and… sneeze-free moments? This year let’s redefine romance with the power of ‘less is more’ in the floral department. Here’s how: Choosing allergy-friendly, less fragrant flowers for Valentine’s Day is a thoughtful gesture for someone who might be sensitive to strong scents. When selecting flowers, it’s always a good idea to ask your florist for allergy-friendly recommendations; it’ll be your way of saying, ‘I love you and your sinuses.’ It’s sweet, it’s considerate, and best of all, it won’t leave your partner/date diving for the antihistamines.
That’s what we call a ‘win-win’ in the game of love!
Next time, you might just opt for a nice, safe box of chocolates – unless, of course, they’re allergic to that too!

Massage Oils

Before you decide to spoil your partner with a massage, make sure you inquire if he/she has a known sensitivity to various chemicals in skin care products. Say no to a not so special rash on or after Valentine’s Day! If you have a fragrance or other skin sensitivity, it is important to become a “label-detective” to avoid such products.

Sex

Lovemaking may inadvertently expose a person sensitive to chemicals found in spermicides, lubricants and/or latex condoms. If you have a suspicion and have been found to be sensitive, alternate products can be discussed with your allergist and/or dermatologist.

Dr. Clifford Bassett is a leading specialist in the evaluation and management of allergic and immunologic disorders. Click here to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bassett for all your allergy needs.

The information provided here is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

About Schweiger Dermatology Group

Schweiger Dermatology Group was founded to help make excellent dermatology care accessible throughout the Northeast. In 2010, Dr. Eric Schweiger started the practice with a single location in Midtown Manhattan. When he saw the need for high-quality dermatology care that did not require weeks or months of waiting to see a qualified provider, his vision of a multi-location practice was born.

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