Symptoms of Contact Dermatitis
Red rashes, formation of blisters or wheals, and itchy burning skin are the most common signs of contact dermatitis. Usually, the immediate area and some surrounding patches of skin that have come in contact with the irritant are the only parts affected. Scratching, rubbing, and prolonged exposure to sunlight and chlorinated water can worsen the condition, so stay vigilant.
Contact Dermatitis Causes
The condition is basically a localized rash on the skin that is caused by contact with a foreign substance. This only causes superficial irritation and does not go down deeper than the outer dermis and the epidermis, where inflammation is visible. Contact dermatitis will linger for days and will only go away after that certain period of time. That is only so if it is no longer coming in contact with that foreign substance that caused the irritation. This results in burning and itchy rashes that can be quite annoying over time. Chronic cases can occur when even not coming in contact with the irritant can make it disappear.
Types of Contact Dermatitis
There are different types of contact dermatitis that people must be aware of.
- Chemical irritant contact dermatitis are caused by chemical substances that tend to be irritating to the skin, which include solvents like alcohol, xylene, turpentine, acetone, esters, ketones and so on, as well as kerosene, ethylene oxide and so on.
- Physical irritant contact dermatitis is usually from certain physical actions like constant rubbing or scratching of a certain area, as well as friction from such things like paper, fiberglass, certain types of clothing, and so on. It can also be somehow caused by low humidity and certain plants.
- Allergic contact dermatitis is due to an allergic reaction from certain substances deemed as allergens to a person. Common allergens linked with contact dermatitis include nickel, gold, Balsam of Peru, Thimerosal, Neomycin, Formaldehyde, certain fragrance mixes, and so on.
- Photo contact dermatitis is from contact with allergens or irritants that are usually activated when exposed to sunlight. This type of contact dermatitis is also sometimes called photo aggrivated.
Treatment of Contact Dermatitis
When it comes to treatment, early intervention is best. If you are aware of recent contact with an irritant substance follow these steps.
- Wash thoroughly the infected skin part with soap and ample water. Immediately do this at the initial appearance of symptoms.
- Throw away or carefully wash all clothing and objects that have come into contact or touched plants or chemicals that contain contact dermatitis allergens.
- Relieve and soothe skin inflammation or the infected part with a cold compress especially if the blisters break or crack.
- If the symptoms show severity, do not hesitate to consult a physician or dermatologist.
- Baths using lukewarm water are also known to help soothe and rapidly control the skin infection.
You need to do is stay away from the irritants when possible (or at least reduce exposure). In the case of allergic contact dermatitis, you need to tally evade the presence of allergens. Also, I know this condition causes excessive itching, but DON’T SCRATCH. Doing this will probably lead only to infection and you will need antibiotics to fight it. If it itches too much, use a cold compress and apply it on the area.
To be on a safe side you may used moisturizers with antioxidants and get the same anti aging effect and provide protection of the skin barrier. By using different types of antioxidants, diverse metabolic pathways within the cells are activated. Most common antioxidants are: carotenes, vitamin E, vitamin C, selenium, flavonoids and proanthocyanidins.
Doctor may indicate the use of topical treatment: topical steroids, hydrocortisone creams and emollients. These need to be used to lower down the redness and itching. The type of cream and length of use will depend on the severity of the symptoms and time coping with the condition.
As for the prevention, the best way is to avoid all identified allergens.
