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Steve Jobs’ wife Laurene Powell feels better after ‘Ganga snan’ following hand allergy at Mahakumbh; expert shares common triggers

The billionaire businesswoman-philanthropist was given a new name 'Kamala' by her guru Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri of the Niranjani Akhara.

Laurene Powell, Mahakumbh, Laurene Powell MahakumbhLaurene Powell is currently in India for the Mahakumbh. (Photo: ANI)

Laurene Powell Jobs, the widow of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, is recovering from a hand allergy at Mahakumbh, noted a statement from the Uttar Pradesh Government. “Laurene was briefly unwell on Monday but is feeling better after ‘Ganga Snan’ and rest. Her enthusiasm to delve deeper into Sanatan Dharma remains strong,” the government statement quoted Swami Kailashanand, reported PTI.

The billionaire businesswoman-philanthropist, given a new name ‘Kamala’ by her guru Mahamandaleshwar Swami Kailashanand Giri of the Niranjani Akhara, “experienced hand allergies due to the crowds,” Swami Kailashanand told PTI Videos.

But what triggers hand allergies, and what can help?

Dr. Mandeep Singh, HOD, plastic, dermatologist, and cosmetic surgery at Paras Health, Gurugram, said hand allergies could be a “common concern in crowded places” due to increased exposure to allergens and irritants. “These reactions often result from direct contact with substances like cleaning chemicals, dust, pollen, or microbial allergens present on shared surfaces such as railings and handles,” said Dr Singh.

Handwashing is a preventive measure (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Additionally, frequent handshakes or contact with people wearing scented lotions or perfumes, coupled with sweat and heat in such environments, can exacerbate conditions like eczema or trigger allergic dermatitis. “Common reactions include contact dermatitis, urticaria (hives), eczema flares, and irritation caused by harsh sanitisers or disinfectants,” explained Dr Singh.

To manage and prevent these allergies, it is essential to maintain proper hand hygiene by washing hands with gentle soap and lukewarm water after exposure and using fragrance-free hand sanitisers in moderation.

According to Dr Singh, wearing non-latex gloves in high-risk environments and applying protective hand creams with ceramides can be effective barriers. “Avoiding direct contact with common triggers, such as strong-smelling lotions or harsh chemicals, and keeping the skin hydrated with hypoallergenic moisturisers are also crucial steps,” said Dr Singh.

For individuals prone to allergies, carrying antihistamine creams or medications and seeking prompt medical attention for severe reactions is advisable. “Preventative measures like patch testing to identify specific triggers and using skincare products that restore the skin barrier can help reduce the frequency of reactions. With these precautions, it is possible to navigate crowded places safely while minimising the risk of hand allergies,” said Dr Singh.

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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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