Facial swelling and beard crusting can be concerning symptoms for people who develop them. Swelling on the face can be caused by a variety of different things, including allergies, infections or injuries. Meanwhile, beard crusting is a common problem in men with facial hair and can be due to a variety of conditions, such as dry skin or dermatitis. Here, we look at the causes of facial swelling and beard crusting and what you can do to manage these symptoms.
A man in his 40s presented to the emergency department with facial swelling, itching, and oozing after using black henna hair dye on his beard. He had noticed itching five hours after washing the dye off and had been prescribed cetirizine and flucloxacillin by his GP, but his symptoms had worsened. The patient was allergic to seafood and had had a previous reaction to artificial henna hair dye.
On examination, there was bilateral facial swelling extending from the top of his beard to beneath the lower border of the mandible. His mouth opening was limited to 1.5-2 cm, and golden crusting and pustules were present throughout his beard. However, he displayed no signs of respiratory distress, had normal tongue mobility, and there were no apparent areas of fluctuance or dental pathology.
The patient was diagnosed with a severe allergic reaction to the black henna hair dye. Black henna hair dye contains a compound called para-phenylenediamine (PPDA), which can cause a severe allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms of this reaction include hives, itching, swelling, and even anaphylaxis in severe cases.
Treatment for the patient included a course of prednisolone, a steroid that reduces inflammation and suppresses the immune system, and supportive care, including antihistamines and pain relief. He was also advised to avoid any further exposure to black henna hair dyes.
It is important to be aware of the potential dangers of black henna hair dyes and to always perform a patch test before using any hair or skin products that contain PPDA. If you do have a reaction to PPDA, seek medical advice immediately, as prompt treatment is essential to prevent serious complications.
In conclusion, facial swelling and beard crusting can be symptoms of several underlying conditions, ranging from allergies to serious infections. It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms as they can be a sign of a severe health problem. Moreover, taking proper care of your facial skin and beard hygiene is crucial to prevent any bacterial growth or injury. Keeping your facial hair clean, well-trimmed and moisturized can significantly help in minimizing the risk of developing beard crusting. In any case, always consult a healthcare professional before trying any new products or remedies to treat facial swelling or beard crusting. Stay safe and take care of your skin!
