Contact dermatitis
definition
Contact dermatitis is an inflammatory skin change that is usually triggered by an allergy. Synonyms are contact eczema, contact allergy and allergic contact dermatitis. The skin reacts to direct contact with a certain substance. It is a so-called type IV reaction of the delayed type, which means that the contact may have taken place one to three days before the first symptoms. Contact dermatitis is the most common skin disease in Germany.
Read more on this topic at: Rash from an allergy
Treatment of contact dermatitis
The most important step in contact dermatitis therapy is the removal of the allergen. As long as there is contact with the allergen, no healing can occur. In addition, so-called cross-allergies must be ruled out (some allergens are automatically associated with an allergy to other allergens. For example, nickel allergy sufferers often also have an allergy to cobalt or palladium). In the acute stage, contact dermatitis is usually treated with cortisone. This can be applied in the form of ointments, gels or milk.
Alternatives are also ointments with salicylic acid, urea or antibiotics. Occasionally, antihistamines or phototherapy also help. In chronic forms, fatty creams and ointments are useful. In general, even in phases without an allergic reaction, the skin should be well cared for with sufficient moisture in order to avoid and prevent complications. In any case, it must be ensured that contact with the allergen is avoided in the future, as there is usually no desensitization (the allergy always persists). In the case of a contact allergy, desensitization is also not possible to take action against the allergen.
Read more on this topic at:
- Eczema - Causes and Treatment
- Treatment of rash
Ointments and creams for contact dermatitis
The ointments usually contain cortisone, but ointments with salicylic acid, urea or antibiotics are also possible. They are applied topically to the skin inflammation. It is important that the tolerance is tested beforehand, as the ointments can also contain other allergens.
Read more on this topic at: Treat rash with ointments and creams
Home remedies for contact dermatitis
There are several home remedies that can particularly relieve itching. Cold compresses, for example, help here. These cool the skin and so it can swell and the itching is soothed. Another home remedy is coconut oil. It moisturizes, helping soothe dry and inflamed skin, and can help improve repair of damaged skin. Chamomile can also be used here. It has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect and can thus also alleviate the symptoms. In general it can be said that there are various home remedies that can be used for contact dermatitis. However, they do not cure the disease, only relieve the symptoms. However, this can be a great relief for those affected. An additional application of a cortisone ointment is still useful, especially if the contact dermatitis does not heal on its own.The home remedies are a good additional therapy.
Read more on this topic at: The best home remedies for your house rash
Duration
Contact dermatitis usually occurs one to three days after exposure to the allergen and lasts for a few days. With cortisone therapy, it can usually be treated quickly and without consequences. A chronic form only rarely develops, which is then treated permanently with special skin care and phototherapy.
Is Contact Dermatitis Contagious?
Contact dermatitis is not contagious because it is an allergic reaction. So it is a reaction of your own body to an allergen, which can be completely harmless to other people. Your own body reacts to it every time it comes into contact with the allergen. Other people who do not have this allergy will not get it just because they are in contact with someone who has it.
Causes of Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis can be triggered by various allergens. It is a delayed type allergy. It is caused by contact allergens such as low molecular weight molecules or metal ions. These then react with certain proteins in the skin and thus become the actual allergen. This reaction occurs only after the second contact with the allergen. Substances that often trigger a contact allergy are, for example, nickel, cobalt and chromium (in earrings, piercings, jewelry), wool wax (in skin care products), paraphenylenediamine (in hair dyes), potassium dichromate (in leather), parabens (in cosmetics, hygiene articles, Preservatives, perfume, clothing, zippers, groceries) and many others.
Read more on this topic at: Nickel allergy
Contact dermatitis from glasses
Various contact allergens can also be present in glasses. Metal glasses can contain nickel, for example, and the rubber-bonded temples in children's glasses can contain various plasticizers and adhesives, such as epoxy resin. In this case, plastic glasses should be avoided or the children's hangers should be avoided.
Contact dermatitis by localization
Contact dermatitis on the hands and fingers
Contact dermatitis on the hands can often be caused by detergents. Then the entire hands are usually affected. If it is just a local contact dermatitis, the cause can be a ring, bracelet or watch, for example. Professional contact is also possible. Here, for example, gloves can be put on for protection in order to avoid contact.
The triggers on the fingers are similar to those on the hands. Here, for example, rings with nickel-containing components or cosmetics such as creams or nail polish or soaps can be the cause. Here, too, gloves can sometimes help or the allergen must be avoided.
Read more on this topic at:
- Rash on the hands
- Rash on finger
Contact dermatitis on the face
Contact dermatitis on the face can also have a number of causes. Here cosmetics such as face creams, masks or cleaning products can trigger the allergy. But glasses frames, earrings or piercings are also possible as triggers. Another group that leads to contact eczema on the face are fragrances. Rapid therapy and consistent avoidance of allergens are particularly important here because of the disfiguring effects of a rash on the face and the resulting psychological consequences, such as depression or feelings of inferiority.
Read more on this topic at: Rash on the face
Contact dermatitis of the eye / eyelid
A contact allergy to the eye or eyelid can arise as a result of an allergic reaction to glasses components, contact lenses, piercings or the like. Eye care creams or make-up products such as eye shadow, kohl or mascara are also possible. Here you should switch to low-allergen products.
Read more on this topic at:
- Rash on eyelid
- Rash around the eyes
- Rash on the corner of the eye
Contact dermatitis of the vagina
Contact dermatitis in the vaginal area can be caused by hygiene products such as pads or creams. Products for sexual intercourse are also conceivable. Condoms (latex) as well as lubricants or sex toys can be the cause here. Here you can switch to allergen-free products. Other diseases such as fungal infections should also be clarified as a further diagnosis.
Read more on this topic at: Rash in the genital area
Contact dermatitis on the feet
A contact allergy can develop on the feet due to components in shoes or insoles. But special foot care products such as creams or deodorant can also be a cause. Here, too, other diseases such as athlete's foot or burns or blisters should be clarified. Treatment here can be difficult due to friction in the shoe or too little air.
Read more on this topic at: Rash on the foot
Concomitant symptoms
The first symptoms are local itching and burning. In the course of this, the skin becomes red and swollen in the corresponding area. Small blisters can also form. These can burst or ooze. The rain can also scatter, so that an allergic reaction occurs in areas that have not had any contact with the allergen. If contact with the allergen is not broken off, it can become chronic. This creates flakes of skin and small poplars. This can develop into a leather-like, thickened skin. The condition can also cause psychological problems if the rashes appear in visible areas, such as the face. The constant itching makes it very difficult to sleep and the exercise of the job can also be impaired. The skin injuries caused by the eczema can also lead to an infection of the affected areas with bacteria.
diagnosis
The diagnosis is usually made by a dermatologist. The eczema usually occurs exactly where you came into contact with the allergen. With glasses that means on the face, with detergents mostly on the hands, etc. The anamnesis is mostly effective here. It is asked whether new piercings have been made, whether you have new cosmetics / detergents / items of clothing or whether you have dealt with certain new substances at work. An allergy test can then confirm the diagnosis.
