Overview
Contact dermatitis is an itchy, red rash that appears where the skin has touched something that irritates it or that it is allergic to — such as soaps, detergents, metals in jewellery, cosmetics, or plants. The rash is limited to the area of contact and settles once the trigger is removed. It is very common and not contagious. Finding and avoiding the trigger is the key to treatment, alongside soothing creams and, for flares, steroid creams from a doctor.
Symptoms
- An itchy red rash where the skin touched something
- Dry, cracked or scaly skin
- Small blisters that may weep in strong reactions
- Burning or stinging of the affected skin
- A rash matching the shape of the contact (e.g. under a watch or ring)
When to see a doctor
See a skin doctor if the rash is severe, widespread, keeps returning, or you cannot identify the trigger.
Causes
Direct irritation from soaps, detergents and chemicals, or an allergic reaction to metals (like nickel), cosmetics, rubber, plants or dyes.