Allergic contact dermatitis can strike anyone from rustic outdoorsmen who tangle with poison ivy, to urban fashionistas with a yen for nickel jewelry. The objects to which certain individuals respond with allergic sensitivity vary, but the symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis are rather consistent: an itchy, inflamed rash that occurs within 24 to 48 hours after coming into contact with the allergen.
Contact with Plants
Poison ivy is a classic example of a plant that can cause allergic contact dermatitis. KidsHealth.org explains that this itch-inducing vine contains a resin called urushiol, which is responsible for the reaction. Poison oak and poison sumac also contain urushiol, and these plants have also been responsible for many cases of allergic contact dermatitis.
Anyone who has suffered from contact with poison ivy is familiar with the blisters associated with a urushiol reaction, as well as the admonishment not to scratch ,no matter how badly those infernal pustules itch. Scratching the blisters caused by allergic contact dermatitis can cause them to break open, and the open lesions are vulnerable to bacterial infection.
Contact with Metals
It's been the experience of many costume jewelry fans that that pretty nickel bracelet leaves a not so pretty rash. Nickel metal is well known to be a cause of contact dermatitis for those who bear an allergic sensitivity to it. Other metals, such as the mercury used in dental fillings, gold, cobalt and chromate, have also caused cases of allergic contact dermatitis, according to EczemaNet.
It isn't just jewelry that can trigger a bout of contact dermatitis. Metals that are allergens are also used in zippers, buttons and other clothing fasteners.
Use of Cosmetics
Many cosmetics contain allergens that can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Fragrances added to cosmetics are frequently the cause of the allergic reaction, but even supposedly unscented products can serve as allergens. These unscented products often do not contain fragrance, but other chemicals, according to EczemaNet, mask it. Nail care products, sunscreen, perfumes and makeup are frequently the source behind an allergic contact dermatitis reaction.
Contact with Rubber
Allergies to rubber and the chemicals used in its manufacturing are commonly associated with contact dermatitis. DermNet NZ reports that natural latex sap can cause contact dermatitis, and a long list of rubber manufacturing ingredients can also result in the condition. These ingredients include vulcanizing agents, fillers and pigment, among others. Rubber that contains these allergens can be found in everything from the elastic in a pair of underwear to the handle of a tennis racquet.
