According to the American Academy of Dermatology, contact dermatitis is one of the most common forms of eczema that affects nearly everyone at least once in their lifetime. Contact dermatitis develops when the skin gets exposed to a substance or material that triggers a rash. While some people may break out in a rash promptly upon exposure, in some cases, it may take longer for a rash to arise.
Allergic Contact Dermatitis
In some people, contact dermatitis is a result of the skin’s reaction to an allergen. You have allergic contact dermatitis if you have broken out in a rash upon contact with:
– Nickel (not just the coin; used in the making of certain jewelry, e.g. rings, belt buckles)
– Repeated application of a makeup product; though, in some cases, only one application can be enough to cause a rash
– Immediate reaction or reaction after prolonged exposure to certain jewelry
– Latex
Irritant Contact Dermatitis
Irritant contact dermatitis is much more prevalent, occurring when the skin is exposed to an irritant. With sufficient exposure, many things can have an irritating effect on the skin. You experience irritant contact dermatitis if any of the following applies to you:
– Rashes caused by diapers
– Damaged, fissured skin due to over-washing hands
– Irritation caused by contact with acidic substances
– Dry, cracked skin in the mouth caused by licking your lips
A majority of products and supplies containing harsh, toxic chemicals can also easily cause skin irritation on the site of contact, including bleach, most potent cleaning products, and pepper spray.
Even substances that are typically not irritants can lead to the development of irritant contact dermatitis in some individuals upon overexposure, including water, soaps, and certain foods.
It is also quite common for people to experience irritant contact dermatitis due to their occupation. Those who work in the medical field such as nurses, individuals whose job requires them to get their hands wet often such as bartenders, and cosmetologists commonly develop this type of dermatitis. The condition initially presents itself with dryness and fissures on the affected skin but then can be accompanied by a burning, irritating sensation. The affected parts of the skin may eventually get very sensitive, itchy, and even result in open sores.
If your contact dermatitis outbreaks do not improve within 2-3 weeks, it is essential to consult your primary physician or preferably a dermatologist. Self-care and treatment are paramount to managing the symptoms of contact dermatitis and preventing the condition from deteriorating.
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