For those with pollen allergies, the return of warm weather often brings discomfort, including sneezing, runny noses, and itchy eyes. But did you know that your long hair or beard could make these symptoms worse? Here’s how managing your hair and beard can help reduce pollen exposure and improve your quality of life.
Contents
Pollen Allergies and Long Hair
As temperatures rise, pollen from trees like birch, cypress, and grasses starts circulating in the air. These lightweight particles easily cling to surfaces, including your hair. If you have long hair, this can significantly increase your exposure to allergens, especially when you’re outdoors. The pollen then sticks to your hair, and if not cleaned off, it can transfer to your pillow, exacerbating symptoms as you sleep.
Keep Your Hair Clean, Not Necessarily Short
While some suggest keeping short hair to reduce pollen build-up, cutting your hair isn’t the only solution. Dr. Catherine Quéquet, an allergy specialist, advises against radical measures: “Cutting your hair short is drastic. Washing it every night isn’t necessary either—a simple rinse with clear water should suffice.” This method helps remove pollen from your hair without damaging it from excessive washing. Additionally, styling your hair in a bun or braid can reduce exposure.
What About Beards and Pollen Allergies?
For those with beards, the situation is similar. Pollen can settle in facial hair, potentially worsening allergy symptoms. A quick rinse with water each night can help, though regular shampooing may be necessary if your beard is especially long. Keeping facial hair clean is essential to prevent pollen from being inhaled or irritating your skin.
7 Key Tips for Managing Pollen Allergies
Hair and beards are not the only factors in controlling pollen allergies. To reduce your symptoms, it’s important to develop good habits, especially during pollen season.
1. Seek Preventive Care
If you have known pollen allergies, seeing an allergist before the season begins is essential. They may recommend desensitization therapy, which can significantly reduce your symptoms over time. The treatment, which often involves tablets or drops for birch and grass pollen, needs to be started before the pollen season and continued for several years to build long-term tolerance.
2. Consult a Doctor at the First Sign of Symptoms
If you experience new symptoms of pollen allergy, such as sneezing or itchy eyes, consult your general practitioner. They can confirm the diagnosis and suggest appropriate treatments, including antihistamines or other preventive measures.
3. Avoid Exercise During High Pollution or Windy Days
Pollen is anemophilous (wind-pollinated), meaning wind and pollution increase its spread. Exercising outdoors during high pollution or windy days can worsen symptoms. According to Dr. Quéquet, pollution can also alter pollen’s structure, making it even more aggressive to the body.
4. Wear Sunglasses to Protect Your Eyes
Sunglasses act as a partial barrier, preventing pollen from reaching your eyes. For added protection, use eye drops to rinse out any pollen and avoid rubbing your eyes, which can make things worse. Contact lenses should also be avoided as they can irritate your eyes further.
5. Avoid Drying Clothes Outdoors
Just like hair and beards, clothing can easily trap pollen. Avoid drying your laundry outside during pollen season to prevent allergens from entering your home.
6. Check Your Car’s Air Filters
Old or clogged car filters may fail to block pollen, allowing it to circulate in your vehicle when you turn on the air conditioning. Replace them regularly to ensure they function properly and protect you from pollen exposure while driving.
7. Be Cautious During Stormy Weather
Storms can cause pollen grains to break apart, releasing their allergens into the air. If it doesn’t rain immediately after, the pollen can trigger severe reactions, including thunderstorm asthma. This phenomenon occurred in Melbourne in 2016, causing thousands of hospital visits and even several fatalities. Avoid being outdoors during these conditions.
By following these tips and making small changes, such as rinsing your hair and beard daily, you can significantly reduce your exposure to pollen and alleviate your symptoms.
