What Is Dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is a rash caused by your skin coming into contact with something that irritates it or triggers an allergic reaction. Most cases are caused by contact with everyday irritating items such as soaps, cleaning products, or allergens like poison ivy, perfumes, certain medicines, or jewelry metals.
Symptoms
The main symptom of dermatitis is a rash. The skin may be:
- Red, chapped, or cracked
- Painful and itchy
- Swollen or blistered in allergic reactions
- Oozing in severe cases (e.g., poison ivy exposure)
When to See a Doctor
See Dr. Zoeteman if your rash does not improve within 2 weeks or if it worsens. Seek immediate care if you develop significant swelling or difficulty breathing.
Causes
Dermatitis is caused by two main mechanisms:
- Irritant contact — repeated contact with soaps, cleansers, rubbing alcohol, bleach, or acid-based products
- Allergic contact — reactions to poison ivy/oak/sumac, nickel in jewelry, formaldehyde in clothing or nail polish, fragrances in cosmetics and perfumes
Diagnosis & Tests
Your provider will examine the rash and ask about your activities and medical history. A skin allergy test may be performed to identify whether the rash is caused by an irritant or an allergen.
Treatment Options
Treatment begins with identifying and avoiding the triggering substance. Additional options include:
- Thick moisturizing creams to protect the skin barrier
- Over-the-counter hydrocortisone 1% cream for mild cases
- Prescription-strength steroid creams for more severe reactions
- Wet dressings for plant-related rashes to reduce itching and crusting
Prevention
Identify and avoid the substances causing your skin reactions. Wear protective gloves when working with irritating chemicals and choose fragrance-free personal care products when possible.