ALLERGY TESTING IN ABU DHABI

Skin reactions — redness, itching, hives, contact dermatitis — are not all the same condition and they do not all have the same cause. Treating symptoms without identifying the trigger is managing discomfort, not solving the problem. Allergy testing at House of Skincare is diagnostic. It identifies what your immune system is reacting to so that avoidance, treatment, and management can be directed accurately.

At House of Skincare on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Dr. Khadija Al Zaabi, Consultant Dermatologist with over 21 years of clinical experience, conducts all allergy investigations. She assesses your clinical history and symptom pattern before recommending which investigative tests are appropriate — allergy testing is a clinical evaluation, not a menu of options to pick from.

WHY HOUSE OF SKINCARE FOR ALLERGY TESTING

The value of allergy testing depends entirely on the clinical question being asked. Patch testing is not useful for immediate IgE-mediated reactions; skin prick testing is not useful for contact dermatitis. Dr. Al Zaabi’s assessment determines the right test for your presentation — ensuring the results you receive are actionable, not just data.

ALLERGY TESTS OFFERED

Skin Prick Testing (SPT): For suspected immediate-type (IgE-mediated) allergies — food, pollen, pet dander, dust mites. A diluted allergen is introduced to the skin surface via a small prick; a positive reaction (wheal) appears within 15 minutes.

Patch Testing: For suspected contact allergic dermatitis — reactions to skincare ingredients, metals, fragrances, occupational chemicals. Panels of potential allergens are applied to the back under occlusion for 48 hours, with readings at 48 and 96 hours.

Blood testing (specific IgE): For patients who cannot undergo skin testing (extensive eczema, antihistamine use, certain medications). A blood draw tests for specific IgE antibodies to selected allergens.

COMMON CONDITIONS INVESTIGATED

– Contact allergic dermatitis (skincare, metals, fragrances)
– Allergic rhinitis and environmental allergies
– Food allergies
– Drug reactions
– Chronic urticaria (hives)
– Atopic eczema trigger identification

BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT

– Stop antihistamines 3–5 days before skin prick or patch testing (they suppress the reaction)
– Avoid topical steroids on the test area for 1–2 weeks before patch testing
– Bring a list of all medications, supplements, and skincare products in use