Your allergy-free gift-buying guide for 2022

30th November 2022

Your allergy-free gift-buying guide for 2022

Christmas is a wonderful time of year. It’s filled with good food, great people, and even better times. But do you know which part is always frustrating? Yes, it’s buying gifts for other people. Everyone knows someone who swears they don’t want anything, or the person who already has everything in the world.

But do you know what else you should be considering when you buy someone a gift? Their allergies. They can present themselves in ways you may not even imagine. So whether you’re buying something for a loved one or just treating yourself, here’s our advice for some allergy-free gift-buying this year.

What not to buy

Let’s start with the gifts you shouldn’t be buying. Or at least you should be thinking twice before buying them. Here are some present categories that might catch you off guard:

Soaps and perfumes: This is always an easy gift to get someone. Everyone loves smelling good. But some soaps and perfumes can aggravate a person’s allergies. They can cause contact dermatitis, leading to itchy skin, red patches (or brown/purple patches on people with darker skin), and blisters.

Clothing: People can be allergic to various materials commonly used in clothing. Cotton, for example. Or latex. Another one is leather. So if you’ve found the perfect pair of leather boots for someone, make sure they don’t make them break out in a rash first.

Jewellery: It’s the same with jewellery, too. The nickel in most jewellery can cause some people to break out in itches and hives. So rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings might be off the table.

Food and drink: This one might be obvious, but is worth repeating. If you’re going to get someone a sweet treat this Christmas, look at the ingredients. If you know someone allergic to nuts, double check to make sure there are none included. Or stay away from them altogether.

What should you buy instead?

The great news is that there are plenty of alternatives! And if you really want to show you care, there are some choices directed specifically at allergy sufferers. Here are some ideas for you:

Anti-allergy bedding: If you know someone who’s allergic to dust mites, this might be a good purchase. You can get bedding or pillows. They’re machine washable and better at keeping dust mites at bay.

Air purifiers: Why not get them a gadget? An air purifier can remove airborne allergens from the air. Just make sure they have a HEPA or ion filter as these are better equipped at removing particles.

Allergen-free cookbook: Don’t want to risk getting them food? How about a cookbook instead? The upside here is they might make something for you one day!

Get something personal: When all else fails, get them something personal. A small trinket like a photo of you together, or some sort of home decoration. Sometimes it’s not what you buy that matters, it’s what it says.

We can’t solve all your gift-buying woes, but hopefully this has made you think about your friends and family with allergies. Now all that’s left to do is brave the shops (or stay cosy at home and do it online) and then wrap it all up.

Are you concerned about your own allergies or those of your children? You don’t have to go through it alone. Our team of allergy specialists can help you have a comfortable Christmas. Register as a new patient today, or call us on 02031 433 449.