Dermatitis =

                                                  
Although the word dermatitis is used to describe many types of skin rashes, there are two common forms: atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis is inherited and usually occurs first when children are infants. Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes in contact with something that causes an allergic reaction (allergic contact dermatitis) or injures the skin (irritant contact dermatitis.)

What is dermatitis?

                                          
Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin. The word "dermatitis" is used to describe a number of different skin rashes that are caused by infections, allergies, and irritating substances. The rashes range from mild to severe and can cause the following skin conditions, depending on their cause:

What is contact dermatitis?

                                         
Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes in contact with a substance that causes a delayed allergic reaction (allergic contact dermatitis) or when there is an injury to the skin's surface (irritant contact dermatitis).
Skin can become allergic to a substance after many exposures or after just one exposure. For instance, most people will have an allergic reaction to poison ivy after one exposure. Common sources of allergic contact dermatitis include cosmetics, rubber derivatives, dyes, adhesives, nickel, and other metals.

What are the symptoms of contact dermatitis?

Allergic contact dermatitis:
  • Skin reddening
  • Blisters that ooze (Fluid from blisters is not contagious. It will not spread the skin rash to other parts of the body or to other people.)
  • Itching which can become intense
  • Swelling in eyes, face, and genital areas (severe cases)
Irritant contact dermatitis:
  • Mild swelling
  • Stiff, tight-feeling skin
  • Dry, cracking skin
  • Blisters
  • Painful ulcers

How can I prevent contact dermatitis?

For allergic contact dermatitis:
  • Avoid contact with substances that cause the skin rash.
  • Wash any area that comes into contact with allergic substances.
  • Learn to recognize poison oak and poison ivy plants.
For irritant contact dermatitis:
  • Wear cotton gloves under rubber gloves for all wet work. You can also use petroleum jelly to protect your skin. Reapply the petroleum jelly two or three times a day and after washing your hands.
  • Avoid contact with substances that irritate your skin.
  • Use mild soaps.
  • Use hand creams and lotions frequently.

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