Contact dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin from exposure to certain allergens or irritants, such as the sun, soap, clothing, jewelry and plants. When an individual develops a type of contact dermatitis, minor or severe reactions can occur. There are three types of contact dermatitis with different causes and symptoms.
Irritant Contact Dermatitis
Irritant contact dermatitis results from damage to the surface of the skin from chemicals or physical agents such as hot temperatures. Minor or severe symptoms may develop depending on exposure and the body’s natural reaction to the irritant. The irritant may cause an immediate or a prolonged reaction after exposure. Irritant contact dermatitis accounts for 65 to 80 percent of all cases of contact dermatitis. Common irritants that cause this type of contact dermatitis include acids, soaps, heat, cleaning solutions, plants and synthetic clothing. Symptoms include itching, cracked skin, pain, swelling, blistering or serious infections if not treated.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Allergic contact dermatitis results from an immune response to allergens that directly contact the skin. Individuals with pre-existing skin diseases are at higher risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis, but this type of dermatitis can affect anyone. Common allergens that produce allergic contact dermatitis include poison ivy and oak, medications, preservatives, nickel, rubber and fragrances. The American Academy of Dermatology states that allergic contact dermatitis is progressive and may start with redness, and later the skin can darken or begin to crust. Exposure to an allergen causes mild to severe reactions that include rash, swelling, redness and blisters.
Photocontact Dermatitis
Photocontact dermatitis is a result of photoallergic or phototoxic reactions. When exposure from the sun and chemicals mix, it can cause this type of contact dermatitis. Certain chemicals act as photosensitizing agents and cause reactions in some people. Latrobe University Department of Podiatry states that compounds or chemicals present in the skin modified by ultraviolet light can become an allergen with unusual responses. Common irritants for photocontact dermatitis include fragrances, disinfectants, insecticides and body lotions. Symptoms include blisters, swelling, skin lesions and sunburn.
