Contact dermatitis is the skin's reaction to an external or environmental factor. It occurs when your skin is exposed to something that triggers an itchy rash, often accompanied by other symptoms. Over time it can begin to affect your quality of life, so when symptoms appear it is best to see a healthcare provider to find a suitable treatment.
Types of contact dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis
Here the body reacts to a substance or allergen that it does not tolerate. Common allergens include metals, cosmetic products, fragrances, and preservatives. The reaction may develop several days after exposure to the allergen.
Irritant contact dermatitis
This type causes severe itching and tends to develop quickly in response to an irritant. Common irritants such as soaps, detergents, cleaners, and acids may trigger the skin reaction.
Photoallergic contact dermatitis
This occurs when an irritant or allergen causes a reaction only after exposure to the sun. It may happen with shaving lotions, sunscreens, and some perfumes.
What are the causes of contact dermatitis?
- Allergic contact dermatitis: caused by hair dyes, cosmetic products, topical medications, plastic chemicals, rubber, glue, and plants.
- Irritant contact dermatitis: caused by water, handwash, soaps, bleach, and detergents, and by exposure to industrial chemicals, acidic products, and nail polish remover.
What are the symptoms of contact dermatitis?
- Redness and itchiness on the skin
- Dry, cracked, or scaly skin
- Skin gradually becoming covered in bumps or blisters
- Swollen skin
- Skin turning tender
- A burning sensation across the skin
How is contact dermatitis treated?
If you experience these symptoms for more than a week, visit a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Depending on how severe your symptoms are, the doctor will prescribe a suitable treatment.
- Topical creams or ointments: applied to the affected area to reduce symptoms such as the burning sensation.
- Antihistamines: prescribed to reduce discomfort.
- Immunosuppressive medications: considered in severe cases where symptoms do not improve with topical treatment or antihistamines.
How to prevent contact dermatitis
The best way to avoid this condition is to identify the triggers. If you come into contact with an allergen or irritant, wash it off quickly to reduce the reaction.
- Use fragrance-free products, and dye-free lotions, detergents, and soaps.
- Wear protective gear if you may come into contact with an irritant or allergen.
- Use a barrier cream to keep the outer layer of the skin strong.
- Do a patch test before trying any new product to check whether the ingredients suit your skin.
- Bathe pets regularly, as they are a common cause of allergies, before increasing physical contact with them.
- Watch for prolonged symptoms and see a healthcare provider as soon as they start disrupting your routine.
Expert, dermatologist-led care
With the right diagnosis and trigger avoidance, contact dermatitis can be managed effectively. At Derma Essence, treatment is led by Dr. Reena Sharma (MD Dermatology). For related concerns, see skin allergy or eczema treatment.
Book a consultation for a personalised assessment.
