I experienced my first Lupus Mask, and I was really trying to figure out what caused it. I avoid the sun between 11 and 3, and take precautions other times. I believe it was caused when I colored my hair. I've never had a reaction like this before, but my husband saw it and said my face looked swollen as well. It subsided after a few hours, but I was totally taken off guard when it happened. Something new for me to tell my Rheumie.
Ann, why do you say that about the hair color chemicals? I color my hair and have never had a problem with the chemicals. Thanks for any info.
Wow, it is scary what can set off these crazy AI diseases. I appreciate the info you gave me. I knew a girl who had lupus when I was young. (I am 49) she died when she was about 18 or 19. I remember (vaguely) people talking about how ill she was but I did not know her well and it wasn’t openly discussed. I am glad that you didn’t die and that you are here to educate us and to share your experiences and wisdom.
Its really difficult to understand why this time affected me so???? I don't know if it was because it was a different brand or what? I will consider it, but I'm job hunting, and I don't want to look grey : (
Trish, I am sad to hear you got the facial mask, but I can vouch some brands and colors are more prone to bother anyone. Red colors, and those that say golden in the name are worse, and I have only found one brand that doesn't tear up my skin and lungs. Got my first white hair at 15, been fully fully white and grey headed for a decade, but do what I can to work with it. I'm looking though for something that washes out after a month, so I can gradually stop coloring - it's not worth the health results . There are natural colors, without all the extra chemicals, so do a search and read up on them, they may be an option for you. I feel healthy is more important than trying to meet anyone else's standard of beauty. And from your profile picture, you have nothing to worry about!
Wigs are always another option, but get a really good one, and have it fit to your head. They come in different sizes just as hats do.
hugs,
Louise
Hello Trisha,
Sorry to hear this happened to you as well mate...you never know from one day to the next what's coming...maybe the fumes from the dye caused your skin to trigger and the link below how dyes can trigger the skin and also the swelling you add to your face.
http://allergies.about.com/od/contactdermatitis/a/Hair-Dye-Allergy.htm
Get well soon love Terri :)
So sorry you have to deal with this. I have one every day for nearly two years now. It’s not fun or pretty. I hope you can get yours to calm down and you get your face back. Don’t feel negative about this. It’s just one more thing to be cautious of now that you have a good idea of what causes it. You have a beautiful face! Keep showing it, no matter what.
Thanks to you all for your replies, and the mask did go away quickly, that evening in fact.