Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is an irritation of skin that results from contact of any external substance with the skin. This can happen through either of the two methods of allergies and irritants.

Each individual with this condition may experience different symptoms. However, some of the common symptoms of this dermatitis include mild redness, swelling of skin, blistering of skin, itching, and temporary thickening of skin. The symptoms of this condition may bear a resemblance to other skin conditions. Hence, it is wise to consult a certified physician for working on its prevention.

Types of Contact Dermatitis

1.   Allergic Contact Dermatitis: In this critical condition, the reason for skin inflammation is hypersensitivity reaction acting through immune system of the body to a certain material or group of allied substances. The common allergens are fragrances, rubber, some plants, nickel, formaldehyde, hairdressing chemicals and skin medications.

2.   Irritant Contact Dermatitis: It is caused as a result of some irritant substance over the skin. These irritant substances cause a seditious reaction in most people, when applied in adequate concentrations for a sufficient amount of period. Common irritants are detergents, soaps, cement and food.

Almost all staffs in wet-work industries such as cleaning, hairdressing, metal engineering, horticulture and building-site work develop this condition. Both men and women are prone to this dermatitis. It often occurs on the hands.

Contact Dermatitis Prevention

The best and most beneficial treatment is to find out and avoid those substances that caused this allergic reaction. However, following are the top preventive measures to avoid contact dermatitis: 

1.   Wash skin thoroughly with water and soap after any contact with a foreign substance. 
2.   Wash clothes and all other materials that contacted with plant resins such as oak/poison to prevent re-exposure.
3.   Use cold and wet compresses to alleviate and relive inflammation, if blisters have broken.
4.   For rigorous reactions, always consult a doctor.