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Contact Dermatitis
Mild
Contact dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that develops after contact with an irritating substance or an allergen. It may cause redness, itching, soreness, swelling, dryness, cracking, or a rash. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct skin damage, while allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system reacts to a particular substance.
Body System
Skin Hair & Nails
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact dermatitis is usually not an emergency. Seek medical care if the rash is severe, widespread, persistent, or worsening, or if there is significant swelling, blistering, pain, or signs of infection. Emergency care is needed for difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat after an exposure.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Contact dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that develops after contact with an irritating substance or an allergen. It may cause redness, itching, soreness, swelling, dryness, cracking, or a rash. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct skin damage, while allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the immune system reacts to a particular substance.
Symptoms 3
Blisters
Brittle Nails
Hives
Causes 2
Contact dermatitis develops when the skin reacts to a substance that directly irritates it or triggers an allergic response. Irritant causes include soaps, detergents, solvents, chemicals, frequent wet exposure, and friction. Allergic causes include substances such as metals, fragrances, cosmetics, hair dyes, rubber, plants, or other materials to which a person has become sensitized.
Autoimmune Disorder
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk of contact dermatitis increases with repeated exposure to irritants or allergens, especially when the skin barrier is frequently damaged. People working with chemicals, detergents, solvents, metals, cosmetics, hair products, plants, or wet materials may have greater exposure. A history of atopic dermatitis can also increase susceptibility to irritant dermatitis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Contact dermatitis is usually diagnosed from the appearance and distribution of the rash, symptoms, medical history, and possible exposure to irritants or allergens. The clinician may examine whether the rash corresponds to areas of contact. Patch testing can help identify an allergic trigger when allergic contact dermatitis is suspected or symptoms continue despite avoiding obvious exposures.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Contact dermatitis can often be prevented by identifying and avoiding substances that irritate the skin or trigger an allergy
Use protective gloves or other appropriate barriers when exposure cannot be avoided, and follow safe handling practices for chemicals and cleaning products
Gentle skin care and regular use of suitable moisturizers can help protect the skin barrier and reduce irritation
Prevention Guidance
Contact dermatitis can often be prevented by identifying and avoiding substances that irritate the skin or trigger an allergy. Use protective gloves or other appropriate barriers when exposure cannot be avoided, and follow safe handling practices for chemicals and cleaning products. Gentle skin care and regular use of suitable moisturizers can help protect the skin barrier and reduce irritation.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Fresh fruits
Support immunity
Vegetables
Provide vitamins
Whole grains
Balanced nutrition
Foods to Avoid
Known allergens
Avoid triggers
Processed foods
May worsen symptoms
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Skin inflammation caused by contact with allergens or irritants.
Soaps, cosmetics, metals, and chemicals.
No, it is not contagious.
Through examination and patch testing if needed.
Avoiding known triggers helps prevention.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.