What is Contact Dermatitis?
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It is a skin inflammation caused by an allergic or irritating reaction to certain substances coming into contact with the skin. The reaction can be acute (sudden), within minutes to hours, or chronic, which comes on slowly (such as the reaction to the nickel in a watchband-nickel allergy). |
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF DERMATITIS?
- Redness of the skin
- Itchiness (itchy skin)
- Bright red weeping areas or blisters (if severe)
The dermatitis can actually range from a faint redness to ‘watermelon’ swelling of the face.
WHAT AREAS ARE USUALLY AFFECTED?
- The face, especially around the eyes
- The genital area
- The hands and feet
WHAT SUBSTANCES COMMONLY CAUSE DERMATITIS?
IRRITANTS
- Acids and alkalis
- Detergents or soaps
- Sprays
- Solvents or oils
ALLERGENS
- Plants (e.g. poison ivy, mango skin, parnships)
- Chemicals in some perfumes and cosmetics
- Some metals in jewellery, especially nickel; chromate
- Rubber and latex
- Some topical medications
- Resins and glue dyes
- Coral
WHAT IS OCCUPATIONAL DERMATITIS?
Occupational dermatitis is a very common form of contact dermatitis. It is caused by a whole range of irritants and allergens used in the industry that come into contact with the skin of the workers. Most problems occur on the hands.
WHAT IS HOUSEWIFE’S DERMATITIS?
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This is a common form of dermatitis on the hands of women (and men) who regularly use detergents, washing liquids and various household cleaners, especially with hot water. The skin becomes red, sore, dry and rough, especially over the knuckles. It may itch and crack, leading to extreme soreness. |
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT FOR DERMATITIS?
The obvious thing to do is work out the cause and remove it or avoid it if possible.
PREVENTION
Always try to avoid the cause: example is to get someone to remove any offending plants from the garden. Cut down the use of irritating substances such as solvents, soap, detergents, paint, and thinners, scouring powder and pads, turpentine, various polishes. A barrier cream can be rubbed into the hands before work.
For dermatitis of the hands, wear protective work gloves such as cotton lined PVC gloves.
For housewives’ dermatitis, wear rubber gloves, if not sensitive to rubber or other gloves for washing and peeling or squeezing fruit. Do not use any gloves that develop holes. Use soap substitutes such as Cetaphil lotion or Dove soap and pat dry the hands thoroughly after washing them. Use a dishwasher where possible if dishwashing is a problem.
SELF- HELP
For hand problems, rub in a prescribed cream, ointment or lotion and any moisturiser that helps.
MEDICAL HELP
Your doctor may prescribe a stronger anti-inflammatory cream or ointment such as hydrocortisone if the rash is severe or slow to heal. Sometimes anti-allergy tablets are prescribed. It is common to use patch testing, where suspected substances are applied to the skin to find the exact cause. If the patch test is positive, you should avoid the particular substance.
A Comprehensive Allergy Test can be done at a medical clinic.
Comprehensive Allergies Test for up to 101 allergens:
* Food Allergy eg Seafood, Nuts, Eggs, Fish, Meat, Fruits, Seeds or Vegetables
* Dust/Mold Allergy
* Insect Sting Allergy
* Pet/Cockroach Allergy
* Eye or Skin Allergy
* Sinus Infection/Allergic Rhinitis
* Drug/Latex Allergy
Contact Dermatitis Common Allergens
Dermatology Problems - Treatment of Acne, Dry Skin, Warts, Corns & Calluses on Feet
Skin Problems - Treatment for Allergies, Dermatitis, Eczema & Urticaria/Hives
The information provided in this website is for knowledge purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice.
Should you encounter any medical problem that you are unsure of, always consult your doctor or health care provider for assistance and medical advice.