OverviewContact dermatitis is an itchy rash caused by direct contact with a substance or an allergic reaction to it. The rash isn't contagious, but it can be very uncomfortable. Show
Many substances can cause this reaction, such as cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry and plants. The rash often shows up within days of exposure. To treat contact dermatitis successfully, you need to identify and avoid the cause of your reaction. If you avoid the substance causing the reaction, the rash often clears up in 2 to 4 weeks. You can try soothing your skin with a cool, wet cloth and other self-care steps. SymptomsContact dermatitis shows up on skin that has been directly exposed to the substance causing the reaction. For example, the rash may show up along a leg that brushed against poison ivy. The rash can develop within minutes to hours of exposure, and it can last 2 to 4 weeks. Signs and symptoms of contact dermatitis vary widely and may include:
When to see a doctorSee your health care provider if:
Seek immediate medical care in the following situations:
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privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesContact dermatitis is caused by exposure to a substance that irritates your skin or triggers an allergic reaction. The substance could be one of thousands of known allergens and irritants. Often people have irritant and allergic reactions at the same time. Irritant contact dermatitis is the most common type. This nonallergic skin reaction occurs when an irritant damages your skin's outer protective layer. Some people react to strong irritants after a single exposure. Others may develop a rash after repeated exposures to even mild irritants, such as soap and water. And some people develop a tolerance to the substance over time. Common irritants include:
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when a substance to which you're sensitive (allergen) triggers an immune reaction in your skin. It often affects only the area that came into contact with the allergen. But it may be triggered by something that enters your body through foods, flavorings, medicine, or medical or dental procedures (systemic contact dermatitis). People often become sensitized to allergens after many contacts with it over years. Once you develop an allergy to a substance, even a small amount of it can cause a reaction. Common allergens include:
Children develop allergic contact dermatitis from the usual offenders and also from exposure to diapers, baby wipes, jewelry used in ear piercing, clothing with snaps or dyes, and so on. Risk factorsThe risk of contact dermatitis may be higher in people who have certain jobs and hobbies. Examples include:
ComplicationsContact dermatitis can lead to an infection if you repeatedly scratch the affected area, causing it to become wet and oozing. This creates a good place for bacteria or fungi to grow and may cause an infection. PreventionYou can take the following steps to help prevent contact dermatitis:
Video: Allergy or irritant: The truth about your rashVivien Williams: Hand-washing is essential for preventing the spread of germs. But, sometimes, all this scrubbing can cause a rash. Does this mean you're allergic to the soap? Dawn Davis, M.D., Dermatology, Mayo Clinic: One important thing to differentiate from allergic contact dermatitis is irritant contact dermatitis. Vivien Williams: Dr. Dawn Davis says allergic contact dermatitis means a substance is causing an allergic reaction on your skin. But irritant contact dermatitis means your skin is inflamed from repeated exposure to something. Dr. Davis: If I used lye soap on my skin, and I used it over and over again, I would develop an irritant contact dermatitis simply from eroding away the natural barrier of my skin with repetitive washing. Vivien Williams: Dr. Davis says it's not always easy to tell the difference between an allergy or irritant. Dr. Davis: So it's very helpful to go to a health provider, especially a dermatologist, to help differentiate between irritant contact dermatitis Vivien Williams: and an allergy. That way you can properly treat the rash and prevent it from happening again. For the Mayo Clinic News Network, I'm Vivien Williams. Oct. 08, 2022 Which type of topical medications inhibits the growth of microorganisms on skin surfaces?Antiseptics are biocidal products that can kill or impact the growth of disease-causing bacteria in, or on, living tissue, e.g., on the skin.
Which of the following topical medications relieves pain and itching by numbing the skin layers and mucous membranes?Lidocaine is used to temporarily numb and relieve pain from minor burns (including sunburn), skin abrasions, insect bites, and other painful conditions affecting mucous membranes.
Which term describes a protective response of body tissues to irritation and injury a process that results in swelling redness pain and heat?Redness, swelling, pain, and/or a feeling of heat in an area of the body. This is a protective reaction to injury, disease, or irritation of the tissues.
Which of the following types of medications relieves itching caused by inflammation?Corticosteroids. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and alleviate the itching, burning, redness, and swelling associated with a skin rash or hives.
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