Treatment Guide to Contact Dermatitis

by Anne Rivera

Contact dermatitis is a skin condition that may look a simple rash, but is quite complex in terms of its causes. Usually, it is due to one's exposure to irritants and allergens that one's skin may react against. While treatment is simple enough, it does require one to know about the basic facts about contact dermatitis and how to prevent it.

Contact Dermatitis Causes

The condition is basically a localized rash on the skin that is caused by contact with a foreign substance. This only causes superficial irritation and does not go down deeper than the outer dermis and the epidermis, where inflammation is visible. Contact dermatitis will linger for days and will only go away after that certain period of time. That is only so if it is no longer coming in contact with that foreign substance that caused the irritation. This results in burning and itchy rashes that can be quite annoying over time. Chronic cases can occur when even not coming in contact with the irritant can make it disappear.

Types of Contact Dermatitis

There are five main types of contact dermatitis that people must be aware of.
Chemical irritant contact dermatitis are those caused by chemical substances that tend to be irritating to the skin, which include solvents like alcohol, xylene, turpentine, acetone, esters, ketones and so on, as well as kerosene, ethylene oxide and so on.

Physical irritant contact dermatitis is usually from certain physical actions like constant rubbing or scratching of a certain area, as well as friction from such things like paper, fiberglass, certain types of clothing, and so on. It can also be somehow caused by low humidity and certain plants.

Allergic contact dermatitis is due to an allergic reaction from certain substances deemed as allergens to a person. Common allergens linked with contact dermatitis include nickel, gold, Balsam of Peru, Thimerosal, Neomycin, Formaldehyde, certain fragrance mixes, and so on.
Photocontact dermatitis is from contact with allergens or irritants that are usually activated when exposed to sunlight. This type of contact dermatitis is also sometimes called photoaggrivated.

Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis

Red rashes, formation of blisters or wheals, and itchy burning skin are the most common signs of contact dermatitis. Usually, the immediate area and some surrounding patches of skin that have come in contact with the irritant are the only parts affected. Scratching, rubbing, and prolonged exposure to sunlight and chlorinated water can worsen the condition, so stay vigilant.

Contact Dermatitis Treatment

When it comes to treatment, early intervention is best. If you are aware of recent contact with an irritant, wash the area with soap and water to remove the substance. If ever it has already set in, a wash or dip in a weak acid solution can ease the itching. If blistering occurs, cold moist compresses administered for half an hour thrice a day can help. Calamine lotion, colloidal oatmeal, and oral antihistamines can help reduce itching as well. Of course, amidst all of these treatments, the best thing to do with contact dermatitis is to not scratch the area and aggravate the condition.

Contact Dermatitis Prevention

The principle of preventing contact dermatitis is simple, which is to identify the agent that triggers the irritation and avoid it as much as possible. Patch tests, also known as allergy testing, are helpful in finding out the culprit and knowing more about it. With sufficient information, you will know what it is, its names, where it is found, and how you can avoid it.