What is contact dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that shows up as an itchy, red rash. It results when you come into contact with an irritant to which you’re allergic. Your immune system believes it’s under attack and protects itself by creating extra antibodies for defense. The condition isn’t contagious nor is it a serious threat to your health, but it can be incredibly uncomfortable.
What causes contact dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is caused by an allergic reaction to something you touch. Common causes include jewelry, plants, cosmetics, latex, fragrances, and soaps. People who come into contact with possible irritants are at particular risk of developing contact dermatitis. These include construction workers, cosmetologists, health care and dental employees, and agricultural workers.
What are the symptoms of contact dermatitis?
You’ll usually experience contact dermatitis in the places on your body that have touched the irritant. Sometimes, the rash appears almost immediately after contact, but often it takes time before you notice a reaction.
You may suspect the condition if you have symptoms such as:
- Red rash with itching
- Dry, scaly skin
- Crusty, oozing bumps and blisters
- Swollen patches of skin that burns or feels tender to the touch
How is contact dermatitis treated?
At Bellevue Acne Clinic, the staff may perform a patch skin test to determine if you have an allergy. They can then help you avoid this irritant to reduce cases of contact dermatitis in the future.
Bradford Jellerichs also prescribe medications to provide temporary relief from the irritation of the rash.
How do I manage contact dermatitis?
Once you identify the irritant causing your contact dermatitis, avoid it. The staff at Bellevue Acne Clinic can help you identify products that may contain the allergen, so you don’t inadvertently become exposed.
Over-the-counter and prescription creams can alleviate immediate sensations of itching. Bradford Jellerichs may also recommend oral antihistamines and corticosteroids to alleviate itching. At home, you can apply moist, cold compresses to relieve pain and itching.
Avoid scratching the rash too much. You can cause the bumps to burst and ooze, putting you at a greater risk of infection.
