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Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is skin inflammation caused by direct irritation or a delayed allergic reaction to a substance. The skin may itch, burn, become red or darker, and develop blisters, cracks and scaling. The main step is to identify the cause and limit contact, while restoring the skin barrier and using treatment if needed.

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  • Contact dermatitis is skin inflammation caused by direct irritation or a delayed allergic reaction to a substance.
  • The skin may itch, burn, become dry and scaly, change colour, swell or develop blisters or painful cracks.
  • Irritation often results from repeated wet work, soap, cleaning products, solvents, friction, heat or sweating.
  • Allergic triggers include nickel, fragrances, preservatives, rubber chemicals, glue, acrylates and hair dye ingredients.
  • Treatment starts with limiting exposure to the cause and restoring the skin barrier; a doctor may prescribe an anti-inflammatory ointment temporarily.
  • Patch testing investigates allergies, but a skin prick test or trying products yourself at home is not the same.

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Further reading

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E
EczemaEczema is a collective term for skin inflammation with itching, redness, scales, bumps, cracks or weeping patches. The right approach depends on the type and cause. Daily moisturising often helps; pain, pus, fever or rapid spread need medical assessment.
D
Dyshidrotic eczemaDyshidrotic eczema, or pompholyx, causes small, intensely itchy blisters on the fingers, palms, toes or soles. It may clear and return; treatment helps control inflammation and dry skin.
I
Inflammation of the skin around the mouth (perioral dermatitis)Perioral dermatitis causes small red bumps and burning, flaky skin around the mouth, nose or eyes. Corticosteroid cream on the face can trigger or worsen it. Stopping the cream and simple skin care are important, sometimes alongside medicines.