Disclaimer: This is general health information only and not a substitute for medical advice. See a doctor for personalised assessment.
1. What is contact dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis is skin inflammation caused by direct contact with irritants or allergens. It leads to redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes blisters. It can occur anywhere on the body exposed to the trigger.
2. What causes contact dermatitis?
Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin reacts to a substance it comes into contact with. There are two main types:
- Irritant contact dermatitis: This is the most common type and happens when the skin is damaged by a chemical or physical irritant. Examples include soaps, detergents, cleaning products, solvents, bleach, or prolonged friction from clothing or tools. Even brief exposure to strong irritants can trigger a reaction in sensitive skin, while repeated exposure to mild irritants over time can also cause dermatitis.
- Allergic contact dermatitis: This occurs when the immune system reacts to a substance as an allergen. Common allergens include nickel (in jewelry), fragrances, rubber, latex, hair dyes, and certain plants like poison ivy or sumac. The reaction may not appear immediately—it can take hours or even a few days for symptoms to develop. Once sensitised, even small amounts of the allergen can trigger a flare-up.
Other factors such as dry skin, eczema, or compromised skin barrier can make the skin more vulnerable to irritants and allergens.
3. What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can appear within hours or days and include:
- Red, itchy skin
- Swelling or burning sensation
- Blisters or oozing in severe cases
- Dry, cracked, or scaly skin if the reaction persists
4. How is contact dermatitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on history and skin appearance. Patch testing may be performed to identify specific allergens. Doctors consider recent exposures to chemicals, plants, cosmetics, or metals.
5. How is it treated?
Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and avoiding triggers:
- Avoid contact with the irritant or allergen
- Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation
- Moisturisers to repair the skin barrier
- Oral antihistamines for severe itching
- Cool compresses can soothe irritation
6. How long does it take to heal?
Mild cases usually improve in a few days to a week once the trigger is removed. Severe reactions may take 2–3 weeks to fully resolve, and repeated exposure can prolong healing.
7. Can contact dermatitis be prevented?
Yes. Prevention includes:
- Wearing protective gloves or clothing when handling irritants
- Using fragrance-free, mild skin products
- Washing skin promptly after exposure
- Avoiding known allergens
8. Can children get contact dermatitis?
Yes, children are also susceptible, often from soaps, bubble baths, plants, or jewelry. Careful monitoring and avoiding triggers help prevent flare-ups.
9. When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if:
- The rash is widespread or severe
- There are signs of infection (pus, spreading redness, pain)
- Over-the-counter creams do not improve symptoms
- Blisters are large, painful, or recurrent
10. Can contact dermatitis become chronic?
Repeated exposure to irritants or allergens can cause chronic dermatitis, leading to thickened, dry, itchy skin. Long-term management focuses on avoiding triggers and maintaining skin hydration.
