You have probably experienced some type of contact dermatitis in your life, but usually, the symptoms go away quickly after exposure. However, allergic contact dermatitis is more persistent, chronic, and sometimes hard to track down.
You can be allergic to a multitude of otherwise benign common substances that don’t bother other people. Here is more information about allergic contact dermatitis, its symptoms, common causes, and treatments to help you feel better.
What Are the Symptoms of Allergic Contact Dermatitis?
When you have a contact allergy to a certain substance, then you are likely to experience patches of red, swollen, itchy skin. Unsightly blisters may also form. In some cases, such as if your underarm deodorant is the culprit, the red, swollen, and itchy oozing skin may radiate outward to cover a large area. You may also have a classic allergic reaction such as increased rhinitis or asthma-like symptoms.
How Are Allergic and Nonallergic Contact Dermatitis Different?
In many cases, allergic and nonallergic contact dermatitis have the same reactions and go away when you remove the substance. However, nonallergic contact dermatitis often occurs right from the first exposure. The majority of allergy-related contact dermatitis takes multiple exposures before you get a reaction. In some cases, allergy-related dermatitis may show up years after you first started using the product.
What Is Common Allergy-Related Causes?
Anything that causes other types of allergic reactions can also cause allergic contact dermatitis. Examples of some of the most common skin allergens include:
- Perfumes and dyes
- Nickel (such as in watch bands and jewelry)
- Deodorant
- Citrus fruit (especially the peels)
- Cleaning chemicals
- Hair dyes
- Latex
Allergen saturation often varies between products. You may be allergic to one brand or type but not allergic to others.
You are more likely to be at risk for this type of allergy if your job exposes you to certain types of chemicals repeatedly. Common professions that are likely to develop allergy-related contact dermatitis include:
- Auto mechanics
- Hairdressers and barbers
- Gardeners
- Metalworkers
If you develop an allergy to the substances your work with, then you need to take extra precautions in order to continue with your work.
How Is Allergic Contact Dermatitis Treated?
Fortunately, for most people, treatment is often straightforward and generally requires a few lifestyle modifications.
- Avoid the substance: This is the easiest choice in most cases. If you know which substance is the cause of the problem, then you can simply use another product without that substance if possible.
- Apply topical medications: Topical antihistamines and cortisone creams can reduce or eliminate most allergy-related skin reactions. However, these creams often have side effects, so use them under a doctor’s supervision.
- Use mildly scent-free products: Even if you aren’t allergic to the scents themselves, they may still cause irritation. Reduce or eliminate scented products when necessary.
- Take antihistamines: Oral antihistamines help reduce the itch associated with allergy-related contact dermatitis. They will also help reduce respiratory issues if you have them.
- Wear gloves or a face mask: If you must continue to work with allergenic substances, then put a solid barrier between you and the allergen. This may include wearing gloves, a face mask, or sewing in material over a metal fastener to reduce metal-related allergy reactions.
Allergic contact dermatitis can lead to serious skin problems and even infection, especially if you scratch the affected area too often.
If you are not sure about the cause of your dermatitis, or if the substance is something you need to use for your work, then contact us at Advanced Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists. We can track down the allergen with a skin test, treat your dermatitis, and give you advice on how to manage the condition. Call us directly or make an appointment online.
