Skin Condition
Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it. The rash isn't contagious or life-threatening, but it can be very uncomfortable. Common causes include soaps, cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, and plants like poison ivy.
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Common Causes
- Irritant contact dermatitis from harsh chemicals or soaps
- Allergic contact dermatitis from allergens (nickel, fragrances)
- Latex or rubber products
- Cosmetics and personal care products
- Plants (poison ivy, poison oak)
- Cleaning products and detergents
- Occupational exposures
Treatments
- Identify and avoid the irritant or allergen
- Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Oral antihistamines for itching
- Cool, wet compresses for relief
- Moisturizers to restore skin barrier
- Oral corticosteroids for severe cases
- Patch testing to identify specific allergens
Prevention
- Avoid known irritants and allergens
- Wear protective gloves when handling chemicals
- Use fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products
- Rinse skin thoroughly after exposure to irritants
- Moisturize regularly to maintain skin barrier
- Choose nickel-free jewelry if allergic
- Read product labels carefully
