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Histamine intolerance and skin problems such as rashes

Histaminosis can trigger various symptoms: from migraines to weight problems, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation, all the way to skin problems. Find out what is behind this and what measures you can take in this blog post.

Histamine intolerance and the skin

The topics of histamine and the skin are closely linked, because the histamine N-methyltransferase (HNMT)is responsible for, among other things, the breakdown of histamine in the skin. However, if the activity of this enzyme is impaired, it leads to skin problems. Even if your body itself releases or produces a large amount of histamine, your breakdown capacity can be limited.

Histamine intolerance symptoms on the skin

Due to histamine, skin problems occur all over the body, especially on the face. In addition to (dry) skin rashes, histamine also causes

Angioedema: fluid retention and swelling of the skin, particularly in the face
Wheals (urticaria): small red or white skin swellings with a red border, often arranged in patches
Skin flushing: occurring suddenly, especially on the face, décolleté, and neck
Itching: usually over the wheals, as this area of skin is very sensitive
Pimples/skin blemishes: due to secondary effects such as gut dysbiosis or hormonal imbalances

Some symptoms often occur simultaneously. A common clinical picture that causes a histamine reaction on the skin is hives (urticaria). It is accompanied by itching, angioedema, skin flushing, and wheals. Wheals form because the blood vessels in the skin become more permeable due to the increased histamine concentration, allowing more water to penetrate.

This histamine is produced in the mast cells of the skin and can only be broken down insufficiently. In addition, allergenic substances are released that promote itching. This usually does not occur without prior skin changes. Extracellular histamine from histamine-rich foods and medications, as well as stress, UV radiation, and thermal stimuli, further intensify the symptoms. As a result of increased blood flow due to histamine release, nitric oxide is released, leading to dilated vessels and increased blood flow.

The affected skin areas become warm and red, which in the facial area is referred to as a flush. As long as there is no further contact with the trigger, the symptoms usually disappear within 24 hours.

If you suffer from certain skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, acne, or rosacea, these can also worsen due to an excess of histamine. If you scratch the itchy areas, the dry and irritated skin can easily become inflamed, creating a real vicious cycle.

Histamine and rashes: treatment and tips

If you have been diagnosed with a histamine intolerance, you should adopt a low-histamine diet with natural, unprocessed foods (organic quality). If you still experience itchy skin irritation, whether due to stress or thermal stimuli, anti-itch creams can provide relief.

When using them, however, you should opt for natural cosmetics and ensure that they contain no irritating additives. Coconut oil, for example, is a natural remedy for itching and redness. Other measures that can help you with skin problems include:

Always prepare food fresh and do not store it for long, as it will otherwise produce histamine. Alcohol is not recommended for those with histamine intolerance. If you do have a small glass, histamine-tested wine is recommended.
The consumption of secondary plant compounds (polyphenols), such as resveratrol, can inhibit the release of histamine from mast cells.
Avoidance or restricted consumption of allergy-promoting foods such as dairy products, nuts, wheat, and fish (soy should be avoided in a low-histamine diet anyway).
Avoidance of irritating fragrances and pollutants such as perfume, fabric softeners, chemical detergents, certain skincare products, or essential oils.
Avoidance of make-up, as it clogs your pores and can lead to further skin irritation.
Avoidance of certain medications or switching to a specific preparation. If you have a medical condition, you should not discontinue or change medications on your own, but always consult a doctor.
Always consult a specialist if you suspect allergies or other illnesses. Histamine intolerance is not always the cause of skin problems, and existing diseases can worsen histamineosis.

INFO: Our skin, with 1.5–2 square meters and up to 10 kg of mass, is our largest organ. Every day, we unconsciously absorb a large amount of toxins and (hormonal) pollutants through it, whether through care products and cosmetics containing silicones, aluminum, microplastics, fragrances and preservatives, mineral oils, or plasticizers.

These must be broken down by the liver. If the liver is overloaded, the breakdown of toxins is also limited. Normal bodily processes, such as histamine breakdown, can no longer be adequately managed as a result.

Our MetaFit combines choline with vitamin C from acerola as well as selected plant substances from milk thistle, dandelion, and coriander. Choline contributes to the maintenance of normal liver function and normal lipid metabolism.