Contact dermatitis is a common skin condition that occurs when your skin reacts to something it has come into contact with. Specifically, contact dermatitis occurs in two main forms: irritant and allergic.
Irritant contact dermatitis is caused by direct contact with an irritant like harsh chemicals, soaps or cleaning agents.
Allergic contact dermatitis is triggered when your immune system reacts to a substance you've become allergic to, such as certain metals (like nickel), fragrances or poison ivy.
Both forms of contact dermatitis result in inflammation, redness, itching and, in some cases, blistering, scaling or painful rashes on the areas of skin that came into contact with the irritants. The condition can present in various ways, including red, itchy and inflamed skin, dry or scaly patches, blisters or hives or swelling and tenderness. Although contact dermatitis is neither contagious nor life-threatening, it can be extremely uncomfortable and, at times, painful for those affected.
How is it treated?
Treatment for contact dermatitis depends on the severity and the underlying cause. Our team of expert dermatologists will carefully evaluate your skin and medical history to identify the irritant or allergen causing your symptoms, which typically include the following:
Topical Treatments: Corticosteroid creams or ointments help reduce inflammation and relieve itching.
Oral Medications: In more severe cases, oral antihistamines or steroids may be prescribed to manage swelling and discomfort.
Patch Testing: If an allergic reaction is suspected, we offer patch testing to identify the specific allergens causing the reaction.
Lifestyle and Preventive Advice: We will work with you to create an individualized skin care regimen and provide tips for avoiding triggers in the future.
At Huntington Dermatology, we understand that contact dermatitis can be frustrating and uncomfortable. Our experienced dermatologists are dedicated to providing personalized, effective treatments tailored to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with mild irritation or more severe allergic reactions, we are here to help you manage symptoms and get your skin back to its healthiest state.
THE TREATMENTS BELOW CAN HELP WITH CONTACT DERMATITIS:
view all