Contact Dermatitis

Medically reviewed by The Dermatologists and written by Dr. Alexander Börve

Last updated on May 19, 2024

Contact dermatitis is a rash or irritation of the skin caused by contact with a foreign substance. The inflammation only occurs on the superficial regions of the skin. Common causes are poison oak, latex, perfumes, detergents, and certain foods. UV light can also be a cause.

Contact Dermatitis: Red, inflamed patches of skin with irritation and small bumps

Symptoms

It causes large, itchy rashes on the skin exposed to the irritant. The rash is red and appears within a day after contact. It can also form cracks, blisters and hives. The rash can last for weeks. The symptoms often get worse when you scratch the affected area.

An extensive red rash caused by contact dermatitis on the leg, showing inflamed and irritated skin with patchy redness

There are two types of contact dermatitis, allergic and non-allergic. Non-allergic contact dermatitis usually appears on the hands, which is also known as hand eczema.

Non-allergic contact dermatitis

Occurs when the skin’s natural protection breaks down. It is common in professions that deals a lot with soap, water and solvents, but the sensitivity varies from person to person. The risk is increased if you had eczema as a child. It can also happen if you use cleanser frequently.

Learn more about irritative eczema (irritant contact dermatitis), the most common form of non-allergic contact dermatitis.

Allergic contact dermatitis

Is located mostly on the hands, armpits and face, particularly around the eyes. It occurs at the area in contact with something you are allergic to.

Contact dermatitis on the hand, displaying symptoms of red, dry, and flaky skin caused by exposure to an allergen or irritant

Common substances that can induce allergic eczema include nickel, chromium and some preservatives in skin care products. Latex can also trigger the allergy due to the substances used in the preparation of the latex. The risk of developing nickel allergy increases if you use jewelry that contains nickel.

The risk of allergy is particularly high if pierce your ears on your own or have your ears pierced while jewelry containing nickel. If you become allergic to nickel, the sensitivity will last for the rest of your life.

What can I do?

You should wash the affected areas less frequently, especially if you experience pain. You can clean your hands with hand alcohol instead of soap and water. Apply moisturizing cream frequently and abundantly to help the skin build up natural protection against contact dermatitis. You should also avoid contact with the substances that trigger the allergy.

Experiencing Red, Itchy, and Cracked Skin? Consult a Board-Certified Dermatologist for Expert Advice!

Should I seek medical care?

If you suspect that you have contact dermatitis, you should contact your healthcare provider. You also need a physician if the affected areas have formed exuding wounds or it has become infected. You should seek medical care again if you have used prescription cortisone cream or cortisone ointment for a week without any improvement. Read more about allergy skin tests.

Dealing with Persistent Itching and Redness? Get Expert Dermatology Advice Online!

Treatment

The rash will usually fade after a few days if you stop any contact with the irritant. Cold compresses can reduce blistering, and antihistamines relieve itching. If the rash spreads or does not improve after a few days, consult a physician. You may be prescribed corticosteroids or antihistamines which can reduce inflammation. Sometimes you need a stronger cortisone cream.

Explore our eczema overview for details on all types and common questions.