Soy allergies can develop at any age, but are most common in infants and children under age 5. Soy is a common food allergy according to the Mayo Clinic. Someone with a soy allergy should avoid soy-based products to reduce the number of symptoms he experiences. While acne is not a typical symptom of a soy allergy, any food allergy can provoke acne, according to Food Allergy Solutions. Make an appointment with your doctor if you think you have an allergy to soy.
Soy Allergies
A soy allergy occurs in a person with a hypersensitivity to the proteins in soy. The immune system protects the body from harmful substances, such as viruses and bacteria, according to the Mayo Clinic. When a person with a soy allergy consumes soy products, her immune system mistakes the proteins as a harmful substance and reacts as it would to virus. The immune system produces IgE antibodies that enter the blood to fight off the soy proteins. The antibodies cause the mast cells to produce histamine, leading to inflammation of the skin.
Acne Symptoms
The chemicals released by the body's cells cause inflammation in soft tissue such as skin and can lead to the development of acne. Food Allergy Solutions explains that eating foods that cause an allergic reaction release constant toxic reactions throughout the body. The instability and constant toxic substances near the surface of the skin can cause an outbreak of acne. Avoid the consumption of known food allergens to minimize the amount of acne.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms that can develop from a soy allergy are tingling in the mouth, nasal congestion, hives, dizziness and pain in the abdomen, according to the Cleveland Clinic. You may experience increased nasal congestion, leading to sneezing, postnasal drip, sinus pressure and the inability to breathe through the nose. Digestive issues are common with a soy allergy, causing cramping, nausea and diarrhea.
Treatment
Treat acne from a soy allergy by avoiding all products containing soy. You can treat minor allergic reactions with an oral antihistamine and hydrocortisone creams, according to the Mayo Clinic. A severe allergic reaction to soy can be life-threatening and may require an injection of epinephrine.
Considerations
Talk with an allergist to determine the cause of your allergy symptoms. Not all acne is a result of a soy allergy and should be evaluated by a dermatologist. Do not make any modifications to your diet without consulting with a doctor.
