It is important to note that there are two forms of contact dermatitis. The symptoms and causes of the two forms of contact dermatitis are almost the same.
- Allergic contact dermatitis occurs once an individual is exposed to an allergen. Individuals who have allergies react to detergents, cosmetics and latex.
- Irritant contact dermatitis occurs when an individual is exposed to an irritant he/she is sensitive to.
Causes of contact dermatitis
Irritants and allergens that can trigger contact dermatitis include the following:
- Dyes used in fur, clothing and leather products
- Cosmetics
- Hair coloring
- Perfumes and fragrances used in products such as fabric softeners, soaps, body creams, deodorants and cosmetics
- Latex which is used in balloons, plastic gloves and toys
- Nail care products including nail hardeners, nail polish and artificial nails
- Soaps and cleaning products
- Plants such as poison ivy
- Medications particularly antibiotic creams
- Nickel present in metal products such as jewelry, kitchen utensils, buttons and zippers
It is important to note that some products can cause contact dermatitis only upon contact with the skin or exposed to sunlight. These products include antibiotics applied to the skin, sunscreen, shaving lotions and some perfumes. In addition, irritants present in the air such as insecticide sprays and ragweed pollen can also trigger contact dermatitis.
Signs and symptoms of contact dermatitis
It can be difficult to differentiate between allergic and irritant contact dermatitis since the symptoms are similar. In most cases, the symptoms of contact dermatitis manifest within 10 days after the initial exposure with an allergen or irritant the individual is sensitive to. Upon the next exposure, the individual will experience symptoms within 1-2 days. The longer the exposure to the irritant or allergen, the more severe the reaction will be.
The symptoms can range from mild to severe on the area of skin that was exposed to the allergen or irritant which includes the following:
- Itchiness
- Redness and swelling
- Rash
- Itchy blisters or bumps that ooze fluid
- Cracking or peeling of the skin
- Warmth
What to do if exposed to an allergen or irritant
Wash the exposed skin with cool water and soap as soon as possible to eliminate the allergen or irritant. The clothing that was exposed should be washed in hot water and clean shoes using rubbing alcohol and water.
Management of contact dermatitis
When an individual experiences the signs and symptoms of contact dermatitis, the following measures must be carried out to manage the symptoms which include the following:
- Instruct the individual not to scratch the rash since it can lead to infection or scarring.
- Continue to bathe using soap and water on a daily basis
- Apply a medicated ointment, lotion or cream on the rash such as cortisone cream or calamine lotion.
- Using a washcloth, soak it briefly in cool water that is combined with a few tablespoons of baking soda. Wring out the cloth and place over the rash.
A doctor should be consulted if the rash appears close to the eyes, covers a large area of the body or the itchiness could not be controlled. The doctor will prescribe medications to ease the symptoms.