1. Sensitive Skin Is Susceptible
Allergic contact dermatitis is an immune system response to allergens that touch the skin. People who are overly sensitive to chemicals are prone to allergic reactions. Substances that can cause allergic contact dermatitis include cosmetics, latex, metals, poison ivy or poison sumac, nickel commonly found in jewelry, laundry detergent and clothing materials such as wool or cotton. Because allergic contact dermatitis involves the immune system, this reaction can happen between 24 and 36 hours after touching the substance.
2. Irritation Leads to Skin Rashes
Symptoms of allergic contact dermatitis range from mild itching and redness to severe itching and swelling. Scaling, blistering or open sores are also symptoms that cause bacterial skin infections if untreated. Rashes and inflammation usually appear on the hands and the face, but irritation can also appear anywhere on the body if it touches the allergen. Patterns on the skin identify the source of the skin reaction. For example, tiny red streaks or lines indicate poison ivy, while rings around the neck or wrist signal irritation from jewelry. An allergic reaction to laundry detergent may cause redness or inflammation anywhere your clothes touch you.
3. Evaluation Diagnoses the Skin Reaction
Discuss your allergy history with your doctor as well as exposure to plants, and work- or home-related chemicals. A skin examination follows to determine whether you have allergic contact dermatitis. If you seek treatment from your primary care doctor, then he may refer you to a dermatologist to have a patch test. The dermatologist applies an allergen sample to a small part of your skin, and then covers with a bandage. He reexamines the skin in 48 hours, then checks again in 3 to 7 days to identify allergic contact dermatitis.
4. Treatment Clears Up Dermatitis
Following diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis, the doctor suggests antihistamines for itch relief such as Benadryl, Zyrtec or Allegra. For moderate cases, the doctor prescribes hydrocortisone, fluocinonide, desonide or amcinonide. These are available as creams or ointments, but pills or injections may be necessary for severe dermatitis. Some also recommend moisturizers to condition the skin and return it to normal. Products like Eucerin, petroleum jelly and oatmeal baths are appropriate.
5. Keep Allergens at Bay
Washing with soap and warm water immediately after contact, reduces your chance of developing allergic contact dermatitis. Avoidance of the plants and substances can also prevent outbreaks. Keep your home or work area free of chemicals or dust so you don't have to worry about allergic contact dermatitis. Using hypoallergenic laundry detergent or wearing nickel-free jewelry keeps your skin clear and healthy, too.
