What is Contact Dermatitis?

Contact dermatitis is a very common skin rash (Eczema), which is caused when the skin comes in direct contact with an external substance, either an irritant like a chemical substance (also known as Irritant Contact Dermatitis) or an allergen, both natural as well as synthetic (known as Allergic Contact Dermatitis). 

There are a number of things that can cause Contact Dermatitis, which includes acid, rubber, latex (rubber or latex gloves), metal (in jewellery or watches), oil and greases, glass, sawdust, solvents, soaps and detergents. Apart from metals and acids, the list of allergens also includes plant extracts, most common of which is poison ivy. When a person is exposed to these agents for a long time, he are she may develop an Eczema on the exposed parts (Note: A person with Atopic Eczema may develop an allergy, even when exposed to these agents in very small doses). 

Contact Dermatitis also exhibits as an angry, red itchy skin, which may blister and peel off if scratched too much. Contact Dermatitis clears itself when the offending agent is removed, it can also be treated with over the counter prescription medicines. However if the skin is repeatedly exposed to the agent causing the Eczema, then it can become chronic. Contact Dermatitis is not genetically transmitted, and the severity of the condition depends on the age of the person, his general health and his body’s reaction to the offending agent. 

Irritant contact dermatitis is extremely common in working age people, such as those working in the nursing, catering, cleaning and hairdressing industry. The workers hands are repeatedly exposed to harsh chemicals, which can lead to eczema. This kind of Eczema also gets worse during winters when the cold air causes the skin to dry and crack. The Eczema starts as dryness and soreness especially between the fingers of the hands. The skin gets very rough and coarse. 

Allergic contact dermatitis is the result of an allergen, either natural or man-made. The allergen may not usually cause a reaction, but in some people their bodies over react to the allergen and causes Eczema. This kind of Eczema develops slowly and usually occurs after repeated exposure to the allergen. 

Treatment of Contact Dermatitis is the same as that of Atopic eczema and includes skin moisturizers, antihistamines and creams and ointments containing corticosteroids. The dermatologist will also prescribe a patch testing for identifying the allergen that causes dermatitis. 

Another kind of skin rash called Urticaria (or hives) also manifests as red, itchy, raised lesions in the middle layer of the skin. But unlike allergic Eczema, which develops slowly and lasts for many days, Urticaria appears within minutes of the skin being exposed to an allergen and settles down after an hour or so.  

                                                                          How is Eczema treated