Understanding Contact Dermatitis: Common Questions Answered

What is Contact Dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is a skin inflammation that occurs when you come into contact with substances that irritate your skin or cause an allergic reaction.

Types of Contact Dermatitis

• Irritant Contact Dermatitis: Most common type, caused by direct skin damage
• Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Immune system reaction to allergens
• Photocontact Dermatitis: Occurs when substances react with sunlight

Common Triggers

Irritant Triggers:

• Soaps and detergents
• Cleaning products
• Solvents and acids
• Prolonged water exposure

Allergic Triggers:

• Nickel and other metals
• Latex
• Cosmetics
• Plants (e.g., poison ivy)

Symptoms

• Redness and swelling
• Itching and burning
• Blisters or dry, cracked skin
• Pain or tenderness

Treatment Options

1. Avoidance: Identify and avoid triggers
2. Topical Treatments:
   • Corticosteroid creams
   • Moisturizers
   • Barrier creams
3. Oral Medications:
   • Antihistamines
   • Oral steroids (severe cases)

Prevention Tips

• Wear protective gloves
• Use mild, fragrance-free products
• Apply barrier creams before exposure
• Read product labels carefully

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

• Symptoms are severe or widespread
• Infection signs develop
• Symptoms persist despite home treatment
• Condition affects daily activities