Contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen. It manifests as red, itchy, and sometimes blistered or dry skin, restricted to the area of contact. There are two main types: irritant contact dermatitis, caused by damage to the skin from substances like soaps or chemicals, and allergic contact dermatitis, which is an immune reaction to allergens such as nickel or poison ivy. Treatment usually involves avoiding the offending substance, moisturizing the skin, and using topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
Causes
- Irritant contact dermatitis results from exposure to irritants like soaps, detergents, or chemical substances.
- Allergic contact dermatitis arises when the immune system reacts to allergens such as metals (nickel), latex, or plants like poison ivy.
Symptoms
- Redness, itching, swelling, dryness, blistering, and sometimes skin discoloration.
- Symptoms appear immediately in irritant cases but can be delayed (1-3 days) in allergic types.
Diagnosis and Treatment
- Diagnosis is often based on appearance and patient history; patch testing can identify allergens.
- Treatment includes avoiding triggers, using emollients to moisturize skin, topical corticosteroids for inflammation, and possibly oral steroids in severe cases.
Prevention
- Avoid contact with known irritants/allergens.
- Use protective gloves and care with products that come into contact with skin.
- Frequent moisturizing to protect the skin barrier.
Contact dermatitis is common and manageable with proper care and avoidance of triggers, but persistent or severe cases may require medical evaluation by a dermatologist.
