CONTACT DERMATITIS

Contact Dermatitis Causes

Your rash could be caused by an allergy, or by damage to your skin.

If it's caused by an allergy, your immune system is involved. After your skin touches something, your immune system mistakenly thinks it's under attack. It springs into action, making antibodies to fight the invader, A chain of events takes place that causes a release of chemicals like histamine. That's what causes the allergic reaction--in this case, an itchy rash. It's called allergic contact dermatitis.

Allergic Reaction Triggers

Poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac

Hair dyes or straighteners

Nickel, a metal found in jewelry and belt buckles

Leather (chemicals used in tanning leather)

Latex rubber

Citrus fruit, especially the peel

Fragrances in soaps, shampoos, lotions perfumes, and cosmetics

Some medications that are applied to the skin

When to See Your Doctor

Call your doctor if your rash isn't better after a couple of days. Usually your doctor can examine you and ask questions to figure out what's causing the rash.

Depending on how severe your rash is, your doctor may prescribe steroid pills or ointment, and an antihistimine.

Treating a Rash at Home

Don't touch the thing that caused the rash

If you can wash your skin with mild soap and cool water right after exposure, you may get rid of all or most of the problem substance. That will help reduce symptoms.

For blisters, try applying cold moist compresses for 30 minutes three times a day.

Oral antihistamines can help relieve itching.

Don't use an antihistamine lotion unless suggested by your doctor, because it sometimes can cause skin irritation or an allergic reaction.

If the rash cover only a small area, a hydrocortisone cream may be all your need for relief.