Contact dermatitis (contact allergy)

What is contact dermatitis?

In contact dermatitis the skin is becomes inflamed from contact with certain things.

There are two main types of contact dermatitis -- irritant and allergic.

In irritant dermatitis, the inflammation is caused by things that irritate the skin and wears down its protective layer.

Common irritants are soaps, detergents, disinfectants, cleaning solutions and other chemicals. Diaper rash is an example of an irritant dermatitis caused by prolonged contact with wet, dirty diapers.

In allergic dermatitis, the skin has an allergic reaction to something that touches the skin.

These substances that "trigger" the immune system into starting an allergic reaction are known as allergens.

Common allergens that cause contact dermatitis are nickel (for example, in watch bands, belt buckles, and jewelry), poison ivy, oak and sumac, latex, shoe rubber, topical medications, and various types of perfumes and cosmetics.

Contact dermatitis most commonly occurs on the hands and in this case, is sometimes called hand dermatitis. Contact dermatitis can occur at any age but is more common in adults than children.

Treatment / What you should do

For contact dermatitis, first wash the area with water or mild soap to remove any remaining irritant or allergen from the skin. No further treatment may be necessary.

If the rash is itchy or bothersome, a mild steroid cream, such as hydrocortisone, should reduce the inflammation and improve symptoms.

Cool compresses and moisturizing creams may also be helpful. If there are signs of infection in the dermatitis, you should contact a doctor.

An antibiotic cream or pill may be needed.