Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is when something touches your skin and causes a reaction. There are two types of contact dermatitis: irritant and allergic. Everyday products such as soaps, detergents, or cleaning agents cause irritant contact dermatitis. Allergic contact dermatitis is your immune system reacting to something specific, like nickel or fragrance. Both can cause redness, itching, or a rash where the trigger touches your skin. At Southwest Asthma & Allergy Associates, we help you find your triggers and build a plan that works for your skin.
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Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis
Symptoms depend on the trigger, how long your skin was exposed, and how sensitive your skin is. Some reactions show up within minutes to hours. Others may take a day or two to appear.
- Red skin rash
- Itching
- Dry or cracked skin
- Burning or stinging feeling
- Swelling
- Blisters or fluid-filled bumps
- Tender or painful skin
- Thicker skin after repeated exposure
- Skin peeling
- Rash limited to the area of contact
Common Causes and Triggers of Contact Dermatitis
Many everyday products and materials can cause reactions in the skin. Knowing what to look for makes it easier to avoid future flare-ups.
Irritants
- Soaps
- Detergents
- Cleaning products
- Solvents
- Frequent hand washing
Allergens
- Nickel
- Fragrances
- Cosmetics
- Latex
- Poison ivy
Workplace Exposures
- Chemicals
- Industrial materials
- Protective gloves
- Workplace allergens
Other Contributing Factors
- Sensitive skin
- Repeated exposure
- Existing eczema
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Diagnostic Approach for Contact Dermatitis
Finding the cause of a skin reaction takes more than just looking at the rash. We review your medical history and recommend tests to determine the cause of your symptoms.
Medical History Review
We review your medical history to identify patterns that may point to the cause of your skin reaction.Â
- Symptom history
- Skin care products used
- Workplace exposures
- Home exposures
- Past skin reactions
- Family history of allergies or eczema
Physical Examination
We examine the affected skin to evaluate the pattern, location, and severity of the rash.
- Review of affected skin
- Rash location and pattern
- How severe the rash is
Allergy Testing
If we suspect allergic contact dermatitis, we do a patch test to determine the allergen.
- Patch testing to find specific allergens
- Review of possible allergen sources
Additional Testing
If additional evaluation is needed, we may recommend further testing or refer you to a dermatologist for a comprehensive skin examination.Â
- Referral for a skin exam by a dermatologist
- Testing to rule out other skin conditions
Treatment Options for Contact Dermatitis
After identifying the exact cause of your reaction, we create a customized treatment plan. We also monitor your symptoms so we can change the treatment as needed.
Skin Protection
- Staying away from known irritants
- Keeping the skin barrier strong
- Using gentle skin care products
Medication Management
- Topical steroid creams when needed
- Non-steroidal skin creams
- Oral medicines like antihistamines or a short course of steroids when creams are not enough
Trigger Avoidance
- Finding your personal triggers
- Changes at work to reduce exposure
- Lifestyle tips to lower risk
Follow-Up Care
- Checking on skin healing
- Updating your treatment plan
- Helping prevent future flare-ups
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Why Patients Trust Us for Allergy Care Services
Dealing with ongoing skin reactions can be tiring, and finding the right care should be simple. Southwest Asthma & Allergy Associates has over 40 years of experience with allergy and skin conditions. Our specialists spend time with each patient and create a care plan based on current medical evidence.
We accept Medicaid and CHIP and work with major insurance providers. These include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Humana, MetLife, and United Healthcare. If you do not have insurance, our SWAAA Round-Up payment plan may help make care more affordable.
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Frequently Asked Questions
No, contact dermatitis is not contagious. It is a skin reaction caused by direct contact with an irritant or allergen.
The best way to prevent flare-ups is to avoid triggers. If possible, wear gloves or other protective clothing. Use mild, fragrance-free products and moisturize your skin well.
Yes. People with eczema have a weaker skin barrier, which makes them more likely to react to chemicals and allergens. The good news is both conditions can be treated at the same time.
Schedule Your Contact Dermatitis Appointment Today
If you have a skin reaction that keeps coming back, our team is here to help. Call Southwest Asthma & Allergy Associates today or request an appointment online to schedule your visit.
