Could Your Shampoo Be Giving You a Wheat Allergy?
I recently went for a short holiday break. After spending a long day out, I was eager to go for a nice shower at the hotel. Like the OCD allergist I am, I started scanning the labels on the shampoo bottle.
Shudder. Horror.
There it was—wheat protein.
No big deal, right?
Well, tell that to the people who’ve suddenly broken out in hives or struggled to breathe after eating their favorite roti canai, ramen, or pizza—all because of their shampoo.
Can Skincare Really Cause Wheat Allergy?
Yes, and here’s how:
Your skin isn’t just a barrier—it’s part of your immune system. When it’s compromised, like in eczema, allergens can sneak in through skincare products containing wheat proteins. Over time, your immune system starts seeing wheat as a threat. The next time you eat it?
Boom. Allergic reaction.
One of my patients had no issues with wheat—until she started using a new hair treatment. A few months later, she ate a bowl of ramen, went for a jog, and ended up in the ER with anaphylaxis.
She had developed Food-Dependent Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis (FDEIA)—a condition where eating wheat before exercise triggers a severe allergic reaction.
And here’s the kicker—some people react even without exercise!
I had another patient break out in hives after eating a vegetarian meal. Why? It was full of pure gluten.
Wheat Allergy from Skincare: Signs to Watch For
- Unexplained allergic reactions after eating wheat-based foods
- Hives, swelling, or breathing issues after skincare use
- Reactions only when wheat + exercise are combined (FDEIA)
What Can You Do?
✅ Check your skincare labels – Look out for hydrolyzed wheat protein (sometimes hidden under names like triticum vulgare).
✅ Protect your skin barrier – Managing eczema properly helps prevent sensitization.
✅ Get tested – If you’re reacting to wheat, see an Allergist/Immunologist. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
✅ Know your limits – Some people can eat wheat if they don’t exercise after, while others need strict avoidance.
Information You Can Use:
If you’ve been reacting to wheat out of nowhere, it might not be what you’re eating—it might be what’s been going ON your skin.
Curious about the science behind this? Read my full post:
👉 Could your skin care cause Wheat Allergy?
